How to Grow Philodendron erubescens in India

Philodendron erubescens is a must-have indoors as it looks stunning all the time! Here’s a detailed guide to grow it easily!

Philodendron erubescens is one of the most beautiful plants you can keep in your room for that beautiful green vibe. It is also very easy to maintain and look after. Let’s have a look at all the details.

Have a look at the best Philodendrons in India here 

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Details of Philodendron erubescens 

Philodendron erubescens, commonly known as the Red-leaf Philodendron or Blushing Philodendron, is a popular tropical plant that belongs to the Araceae family. Here’s some information about its origin and details:

The plan is native to the rainforests of Colombia, specifically the regions of Central and South America. Philodendron erubescens thrives in the warm and humid environments found in these areas. Today, Philodendron erubescens is widely cultivated as a houseplant in many parts of the world due to its attractive foliage.

This philodendron species is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) in length. The leaves of Philodendron erubescens have a glossy texture and exhibit shades of dark green, burgundy, and red, which intensify as the plant matures. The new leaves often emerge a vibrant red, gradually transitioning to their mature green coloration.

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Propagating Philodendron erubescens 

Philodendron erubescens can be propagated through a few different methods, including stem cuttings and air layering. Here’s a step-by-step guide for each method:

1. Stem Cuttings

• • Select a healthy Philodendron erubescens stem with at least two or three nodes (the points where leaves emerge).
  • Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, cut the stem just below a node.
  • Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
  • Optional: You can dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth, although it’s not necessary.
  • Prepare a pot with a well-draining potting mix or a mixture of peat moss and perlite.
  • Create a hole in the soil using a pencil or your finger and insert the cut end of the stem into the hole.
  • Gently firm the soil around the Philodendron erubescens cutting to provide stability.
  • Place the pot in a warm, bright location with indirect light.
  • Water the Philodendron erubescens cutting to keep the soil lightly moist, but avoid overwatering.
  • After a few weeks, new roots should start to develop. You can gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, indicating root growth.

2. Air Layering

• • Select a healthy, mature Philodendron erubescens stem with a node.
  • About 12-15 cm (4-6 inches) below the node, make a horizontal cut around the stem, approximately halfway through the stem.
  • Make a second cut, a few centimeters (an inch) below the first cut, completely removing the section of Philodendron erubescens stem between the two cuts.
  • Apply a rooting hormone to the exposed area (optional).
  • Take a handful of moist sphagnum moss and wrap it around the exposed area, ensuring it covers the cut section.
  • Wrap the moss with plastic wrap or a plastic bag to retain moisture and secure it with twine or a rubber band.
  • Check the moss periodically and keep it moist, but not soaking wet.
  • After a few weeks to a few months, roots should start to form within the moss.
  • Once sufficient roots have developed, carefully remove the plastic wrap and cut below the rooted section.
  • Plant the Philodendron erubescens rooted section in a pot with well-draining soil and treat it as you would a mature Philodendron erubescens.

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Requirements for Growing Philodendron erubescens 

Sunlight

Philodendron erubescens does best in bright, indirect sunlight, meaning several hours of sunlight each day. This plant can tolerate some direct sun, but avoid intense, direct sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.

If grown indoors, place Philodendron erubescens near a window where it will receive plenty of indirect light.

Soil

Philodendron erubescens prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0-6.5. The best soil mix for the plant would be one composed of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part loam, and 1 part perlite or coarse sand. Make sure to keep the soil moist but never soggy.

Watering

Philodendron erubescens appreciate regular watering but should not be allowed to sit in water. To ensure that the soil drains properly, it should be light, airy, and well-draining.

Allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry out between waterings. During the growing season, water Philodendron erubescens when the soil feels dry to the touch.

During winter, water less often. When watering, use room temperature water and pour it directly onto the soil. If you prefer to water in the sink or shower, wait until the water runs clear before you stop. Over-watering can cause root rot, so keep an eye on the moisture levels of the soil.

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Taking Care of Philodendron erubescens

Fertlizer

Philodendron erubescens is an easy-care houseplant that will thrive with a balanced liquid fertilizer applied approximately every two weeks during the growing season (spring through fall).

A balanced fertilizer contains equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the strength recommended on the label, then water your Philodendron erubescens with the fertilizer solution.

Pruning

Prune Philodendron erubescens regularly to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done when the plant is actively growing, usually in spring and summer. Cut off any damaged or dead leaves and any stems that are growing in an undesired direction.

Pruning will also help to encourage bushy new growth and make Philodendron erubescens look fuller. Avoid pruning too much, as this could cause the plant to become stressed and negatively affect its health.

Pests and Diseases

Common pests of Philodendron erubescens include mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, thrips, and scale insects.

Common diseases affecting the Philodendron erubescens include root rot, bacterial leaf spot, and fungal wilts. It is also susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. In order to prevent these diseases, it is important to maintain proper growing conditions and provide adequate care for Philodendron erubescens.

Proper hygiene, such as regular cleaning of leaves, can also help to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, regular monitoring of the plant can help to identify any issues early on and allow for appropriate treatment.

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Philodendron erubescens Toxicity

Philodendron erubescens are not considered toxic to humans or pets. However, it is still important to take caution when handling plants, as they may cause skin irritation or, in rare cases, an allergic reaction.