The Blushing Philodendron is native to Costa Rica and throughout South America. Philodendron erubescens is considered easy to care for and a good choice for beginner growers. It is less cold and drought tolerant than other Philodendron varieties but is still adaptable to most household environments.
Philodendron Erubescens Appearance
The Blushing Philodendron grows as a vine. The plant has large, waxy leaves with reddish undersides. Philodendron erubescens reach an average of 3 feet (0.9 meters) long and 16 inches (40.6 cm) wide when grown indoors. When grown outdoors, it reaches up to 60 feet (18.2 meters). Blooming indoors, while rare, happens during spring and summer with attractive, red flowers.
Sunlight Requirements for the Blushing Philodendron
Blushing Philodendron care requires less sunlight than other Philodendron varieties. Place your plant in an East-facing window to get the growth benefits of morning light. Blushing Philodendrons also tolerate low-lighting conditions. Bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day provides an adequate light source when available. Avoid letting the plant’s foliage sit directly in the sun’s rays, which burns the foliage.
Watering for Proper Blushing Philodendron Care
Water Philodendron erubescens when the top two inches of soil feels dry. Insert your finger to the second knuckle as a good indicator. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy as this leads to root rot. The pot needs drainage holes to let excess water escape into the tray. Discard the excess water once draining has finished. Use an unglazed, terra cotta or clay pot for its water-wicking properties to further avoid water-logged soil.
Blushing Philodendron Soil and Fertilizer
Provide a loamy, well-draining soil for your Blushing Philodendron. Use standard potting soil amended with equal parts peat or perlite to provide proper drainage. Coarse sand added to the soil mix also improves drainage if the soil is heavy. Feed Philodendron erubescens with a houseplant fertilizer one to two times per month during the spring and summer. Reduce feedings in the fall and winter to once every two months when the plant goes dormant and growth is slower.
Blushing Philodendron Temperature and Humidity Levels
Proper Blushing Philodendron care includes a warm environment and average to high humidity levels. Keep temperatures between 55 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (12.7 to 26.6 degrees Celsius) for optimal growth. These Philodendrons will tolerate short periods of exposure below 55 degrees Fahrenheit if the plant is well established. Provide humidity levels of 40 percent or higher. Supplement low humidity levels by placing a tray filled with pebbles and water beneath the pot’s drip tray.
Blushing Philodendron Propagation
Propagate Philodendron erubescens by cuttings for the fastest growth of a new plant. Choose a stem with many aerial roots and cut it from the mother plant using sharp and sterile shears. Allow the cutting to cure for 24 hours to form a callus over the cut end. Plant the stem, cut end down, in a small pot filled with the recommended soil mix. Place the pot in bright, indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist but not soggy. When the plant grows roots, water as a mature plant.
To propagate by seeds, fill a pot with the recommended soil mix and plant the seeds ⅓ of an inch deep, then cover with soil. Cover the pot with plastic wrap to retain moisture and place in bright, indirect sunlight. Temperatures of between 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 23.8 degrees Celsius) are ideal. Do not let the soil dry out. Sprouts will appear in two weeks to two months. When the seedlings are established, move each to its own pot and care for them as mature plants.
Philodendron Erubescens Pests and Diseases
The Blushing Philodendron is not considered susceptible to many pests but may become infested with mealybugs, Aphids, and scale under certain conditions. Treat infestations by spraying the plant with a mixture of 2.5 tablespoons of Dawn dish soap and 1 gallon of water.
Leaf spot is a common disease associated with this Philodendron as a result of water sitting on the plant’s foliage. The fungus presents as brown or yellow spots on the plant’s foliage. Treat the leaf fungus with a houseplant-safe fungicide on the leaves and stems of the plant.
The Blushing Philodendron is an attractive variety thanks to its reddish hue. The plant’s care needs are straightforward and easy to follow for even novice house plant growers. Add this beautiful Philodendron to your collection for a splash of color.
Philodendron Erubescens FAQ
Prune the plant in the spring or fall to remove any yellow or brown leaves and stems. Trim thin growth, just above an aerial root, to encourage thicker growth.
Spots on the foliage are a sign of fungus growth as a result of water sitting on the leaves. Water the plant directly into the soil, avoiding the foliage. Wipe away excess water on the leaves immediately to avoid the issue.
Yes, all types of Philodendron are considered toxic and should be kept away from pets and small children.
Root rot, caused by overwatering your plant, is often the cause of wilted, yellow leaves. Reduce waterings and inspect the plant’s roots for any that are dark and mushy. Use sharp and sterile shears to trim any away from the main root ball. Extensive rot may not be reversible.
Yes, these Philodendrons will grow outdoors in USDA zones 10 and 11
