40%
off
off
-
Sold
-
-
out
Philodendron Red Congo
Description
- Growth Habit: Red Congo is a self-heading / upright plant — it grows vertically from a central stem rather than trailing or climbing. :
- Foliage & Color: Young leaves often emerge in red–bronze or burgundy tones; as they mature they transition to dark green. Stems and leaf undersides may retain a reddish hue.
- Size: Indoors, a mature Red Congo can reach roughly 70–80 cm in height and around 1 m in width — making a compact yet lush houseplant.
- Origin & Type: This is a hybrid houseplant likely derived from tropical Philodendrons, bred for decorative foliage rather than flowers.
Uses
- Indoor Decoration / Foliage Accent: With its bold, glossy leaves and striking red-to-green coloration, Red Congo makes a beautiful ornamental plant for homes, offices, balconies, or indoor gardens.
- Compact Houseplant for Small Spaces: Its upright, self-heading habit suits smaller rooms or apartments — it won’t sprawl or need climbing support like vining plants do.
- Air-Friendly Indoor Greenery: As with many houseplants, having green plants like Red Congo indoors can help improve ambience and contribute to a more natural, calming environment.
- Gift / Starter Plant: Its easy care and attractive looks make it a good choice as a gift plant or for those new to indoor gardening.
Care & Maintenance
Light
- Thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid strong direct sunlight — too much sun can scorch the leaves and fade their vibrant color.
- Can tolerate medium light, but in low light foliage may become dull, growth slows or stems may stretch (leggy growth). >
Watering
- Allow the top ~1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot; soggy soil is harmful.
- Water thoroughly until excess drains out from bottom; ensure drainage holes in pot so water does not stagnate.
Soil & Potting Mix
- Use a well-draining, airy potting mix** — a blend suited for aroids (e.g. potting soil + perlite/pumice + orchid bark / coco-peat) works well.
- Keep potting mix slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~5.5 – 6.5 ideally) for optimal root health.
Temperature & Humidity
- Prefers warm indoor temperatures — roughly 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). It doesn’t tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below ~10–13 °C (50–55 °F). :
- Moderate to high humidity (~50-60 % or more) helps keep leaves healthy. In dry indoor air, occasional misting or a pebble-tray/humidifier helps.
Fertilization
- During growing season (spring & summer), feed with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer every 4–6 weeks (diluted to half strength is fine).
- Avoid over-fertilizing, especially in fall/winter when growth slows.
Maintenance: Pruning, Repotting & Cleaning
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves as needed to keep plant healthy and tidy.
- Repot every 2–3 years (or when root-bound) into a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil. :
- Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust; helps leaves stay glossy and photosynthesize efficiently.
Pests & Issues
- Overwatering may cause root rot or fungal issues; ensure good drainage and avoid soggy soil.
- Common pests: mealybugs, scale, spider mites. Inspect regularly, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Features
- Striking foliage: Glossy leaves that start in red-bronze shades and mature to dark green — a beautiful colour transition. :
- Compact & upright habit: Self-heading growth — ideal for indoor settings where climbing plants are not suitable.
- Relatively hardy & forgiving: Tolerates occasional watering lapses and adapts well to indoor light and warmth (within reasonable range). /li>
- Low-space requirement: Because it grows upright rather than sprawling, it fits well in apartments, offices, or smaller rooms
Advantages
- Easy-care houseplant: For beginners or busy people — does not demand too much maintenance beyond basic light, watering, and occasional feeding.
- Decor-friendly foliage: The vivid leaf coloration adds a tropical, elegant vibe to interiors — works as a focal plant or greenery accent.
- Compact & apartment-friendly: Upright growth makes it suitable for homes with limited space.
- Flexible indoor placement: Does not need climbing support; can be placed in a pot on floor, shelf-corner, or any spot with indirect light.
- Air & ambience enhancer: Adds greenery and a natural feel, helping improve indoor atmosphere and aesthetics.
Note / Caution: As with many philodendrons, Red Congo may be mildly toxic if ingested — keep out of reach of pets/children. Also, avoid over-watering — never allow soil to stay soggy. (Maintain drainage & proper watering schedule.)
Live Plants
Related Products
From This Collection
