Philodendron Imperial Red


A lush self-heading hybrid, Philodendron 'Imperial Red' brings sophisticated drama to any room with its broad, glossy foliage. New leaves unfurl in a deep, rich reddish-purple before transitioning into dark bronze and finally maturing into a striking emerald-black green. Self-supporting with a neat, compact habit, it grows in a dense rosette that anchors tabletops, plant stands, or brightly lit corners with effortless tropical style.

  • Toxic to pets and children
  • Repot once every 2 years
  • Fertilize once a month
  • Average water
  • Bright, indirect light

About Philodendron Imperial Red

Origin

Developed by tropical plant breeders using South American Philodendron species (primarily P. erubescens genetics), this self-heading hybrid boasts striking, broad foliage that transitions from a deep burgundy-crimson to a dark, glossy hunter green.

Air Purifying

Definitely! It pulls double-duty in your living space by filtering out indoor pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. 

Toxicity

Keep this one parked up high away from pets and young kids. Chewing on the foliage releases calcium oxalate crystals, leading to mouth irritation, swollen lips, drooling, and upset bellies.

Caring for Philodendron Imperial Red

Watering

Soak the soil completely only after the top 50% to 75% of the pot has dried out. Make sure the container drains freely so the root system never rests in pooled water.

Light and Placement

Prefers a spot with plenty of strong, filtered sunlight. A few feet back from a bright window gives it enough energy to throw out those rich, dark leaves without the risk of leaf scorch from direct rays.

Nutrition

Give it a drink of half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks throughout the spring and summer flush. Put the food away for the autumn and winter dormant months.

Repotting

Repot every year or two in early spring when the roots start filling out the container. Choose a pot that's 1 to 2 inches wider and pack it with a loose, breathable mix of soil, orchid bark, and coarse perlite.

Pruning and Flowering

Indoor blooms are rare, as this plant is all about showing off its dramatic leaves. Tidy up the base by snipping away spent, yellowing foliage with sanitized scissors to encourage fresh growth from the center. 

Philodendron Imperial Red SOS

Illness

Excess moisture is the main culprit for root rot and leaf spot. Keep an eye out for opportunistic pests like mealybugs, scale, or spider mites, and treat them fast with a spray of insecticidal soap or a gentle neem oil wipe-down.

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