Philodendron El-Choco red - Perfectly Imperfect Plants

Philodendron El Choco Red – Description

Philodendron El Choco Red is a highly sought-after aroid admired for its striking foliage. Native to Colombia, it features large, heart-shaped leaves with deep green, velvety surfaces and prominent light-green venation. The plant earns its name from the rich reddish-burgundy colour on the undersides of its leaves, which contrasts beautifully with the dark velvety tops. With maturity, leaves can become broad and dramatic, giving the plant a bold, tropical presence. This species is a hemiepiphytic climber, naturally growing up trees in humid rainforest environments.

Care Plan

Light:

• Thrives in bright, indirect light.

• Avoid direct sun, which may scorch the delicate velvety leaves.

• Can tolerate medium light, though growth will be slower and leaves smaller.

Watering:

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry slightly between waterings.

• Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.

Humidity:

• Prefers high humidity (70%+).

• Benefits from misting, pebble trays, or a humidifier indoors.

• Low humidity may cause browning on leaf edges.

Temperature:

• Ideal range: 18–28°C.

• Avoid temperatures below 15°C and protect from cold drafts.

Soil:

• Use a chunky, free-draining aroid mix (orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and compost).

• Good aeration is essential to prevent root rot.

Fertiliser:

• Feed every 2–4 weeks during the active growing season (spring–summer) with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser.

• Reduce feeding in autumn–winter.