Large glossy leaves emerge deep reddish-burgundy and mature to olive-green, with new growth cycling through those warm tones continuously. It grows outward from a central stem rather than climbing, forming a wide rosette that can reach 3 to 4 feet tall and wide indoors. Each leaf blade is broad and elongated with a smooth, lacquered finish.
Philodendron Congo Rojo is grown almost entirely for its foliage rather than its flowers, and while it can produce spathe-style blooms under ideal conditions, flowering is rare indoors. The plant filters formaldehyde and other household toxins from indoor air.
Rotate it every few weeks so all sides receive even light exposure, since it spreads wide rather than growing tall. Move it outside in summer to a sheltered spot, but bring it back inside before temperatures drop and keep it well out of reach of cats and dogs, as the sap can irritate skin and paws. It does well near a kitchen where ambient humidity from cooking supports growth.
Water it thoroughly every 7 to 10 days, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Philodendron Congo Rojo does best in a well-draining mix of peat or coco coir, perlite, and a small amount of orchid bark.
It prefers temperatures between 65 and 85F and should never be exposed to frost or cold drafts.
Philodendron Congo Rojo is a moderate to fast grower during warm months and benefits from monthly balanced liquid fertilizer in spring and summer.
It is hardy in USDA Zones 9 through 11, where temperatures rarely dip below 25 to 30F. It grows outdoors year-round in Florida, southern California, coastal and southern Texas, Arizona, Louisiana, southern Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, parts of Nevada and southern Oregon, and Hawaii.
Q: How often should I water Philodendron ‘Congo Rojo’?
A: Water every 7 to 10 days when the top inch of soil has dried out.
Q: Is this plant safe around pets?
A: Philodendron ‘Congo Rojo’ should stay on a high shelf out of reach, as cats and dogs can experience discomfort and skin irritation from ingesting the sap.
Q: How big does Philodendron Congo Rojo get indoors?
A: It typically spreads 3 to 4 feet wide and reaches a similar height over several years, so plan for generous horizontal space.
Q: Can it purify indoor air?
A: Philodendron Congo Rojo actively filters formaldehyde and other common household toxins while naturally humidifying the air through transpiration.
Q: Can it survive in an office with artificial light?
A: Philodendron Congo Rojo adapts to quality LED lighting; consider adding a grow light if windows are far away, as this will speed up growth and deepen leaf color.
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The Congo Rojo Philodendron is a popular indoor plant whose shining reddish-green foliage makes a wonderful addition to any space.
Native to South America, these dark green exotic beauties have recently gained popularity in the US. They are loved for their lustrous, large foliage and low-maintenance plant care regimen.
Philodendron Rojo Congo care practices include placing the plant in bright indirect light and watering it when the soil dries. Though these plants prefer bright light, they are not too picky about their light requirements. The Congo will also tolerate a medium to lower light.
Additional care tips for this tropical plant include promoting high humidity levels and potting in well-draining soil. An ideal potting soil blend for these beauties would incorporate organic matter and chunky additives. This blend will aerate the soil and promote drainage.
These plants enjoy being a bit root-bound in their pots, so you do not have to worry about frequent repotting with this indoor plant. The Red Congo will also benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer.
The Philodendrons’ large burgundy green foliage complements most color schemes and gives a space a pop of color. The Philodendron Congo Rojo is the ideal houseplant for collectors and beginners alike!
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