Philodendron rubrijuvenile is part of the Araceae family and its native range is Colombia where it grows primarily in the wet tropical biome. This plant is more commonly known under the cultivar name Philodendron ‘El Chocó Red’. Leaves are dark green, cordate and velutinous with red undersides in juvenile leaves; they lose their red colour as they mature. Philodendron rubrijuvenile are climbing plants so will require some support.
Genus name comes from the Greek ‘philo’ meaning loving and ‘dendro’ meaning tree. Specific epithet means ‘red when juvenile’.
Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive.
Water: Allow the first 2-3 inches of mix to dry out, pour water slowly over the top and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes.
Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings.
Fertilising: Feed your plant every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more.
Temperature: 21-27°C.
Humidity: Philodendron rubrijuvenile prefer humidity greater than 60%. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier.
Philodendron are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.