Description

Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ is a rare aroid with velvety green, heart-shaped leaves and a striking reddish-brown underside. This Philodendron is admired for its deep veining and luxurious look, making it a true statement plant for modern interiors. In bright, indirect light, it develops firm leaves with compact spacing. Each plant is hand-selected for quality, ensuring you receive a strong, healthy specimen that’s ready to thrive and become a centerpiece in your home.

Size

Medium – approximately 30 cm tall, supplied in a 12 cm nursery pot.

Growth & support with moss pole

Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ is a natural climbing plant that loves to anchor itself to a textured surface. Add a moss pole once the plant has 4–5 mature leaves and visible aerial roots at each node. Growth speed is moderate; with vertical support, proper humidity, and steady fertilization, the leaves will grow larger and fuller. Secure stems gently with soft ties and keep the moss lightly moist for optimal attachment.

Propagation of Philodendron 'El Choco Red'

Propagation can be done via top or mid-cuttings, with at least one growth node and aerial root. Use a covered propagation pot with lightly moist sphagnum moss for stable humidity, or a glass vial such as the PlantStuff propagation stations for water rooting. Repot into an airy aroid substrate once roots reach 3–5 cm and show branching. Difficulty: medium.

Care & characteristics

• Name: Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’
• Family: Araceae
• Origin: Likely native to the Chocó region (Colombia); not a hybrid
• Habitat: Hemiepiphyte/climbing plant in tropical understory
• Preferred temperature: 18–28 °C; tolerates short dips below 15 °C
• Ideal placement: Bright, indirect light; avoid harsh midday sun
• Soil: Airy aroid mix; e.g. PlantStuff Aroid soil
• Water & fertilization: Keep lightly moist; water when top 2–3 cm are dry. Fertilize every 2–4 weeks throughout the year.
• Pruning & maintenance: Remove old or yellowing leaves, keep foliage dust-free; repot every 12–18 months. Remove flowers if large leaves are desired.
• Growth habit: Moderate; leaves grow larger with higher humidity and vertical support
• Toxicity: Slightly toxic if ingested (calcium oxalates); keep out of reach of children.
• Special care: Prefers 60–80% humidity, gentle airflow, and a warm, draft-free environment