Philodendron Red Congo
Philodendron,  Plant Care

Philodendron Red Congo

The philodendron red congo is an easy to care for pretty philodendron, in this care guide we detail how to get the best out of your plant…

Philodendron Red Congo Summary

Light needs:Bright indirect sunlight.
Watering needs:Let the top 50% of soil dry out before watering again, check once a week.
Fertilizer:A balanced feed once a month in spring and summer.
Soil:A really well draining potting mix.
Humidity:40-60%.
Temperature:18°C to 25°C (64-77°F).
Where to buy:Try one of these Rare Plant Shops.
Common issues:Root rot from from overwatering.

Introduction

The philodendron red congo aka the congo rojo is a really easy to care for houseplant, so it’s a great one to get if you’ve not had a philodendron before. It has lush dark green leaves with red stems.

Tip: we recommend Etsy for buying plants. Look for the best rated seller you can, and try to buy as close to your home as possible so the plant does not travel too far.

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Philodendron Red Congo Light Needs

Bright indirect sunlight is best. I have seen these do well in many mediumly lit rooms too, as well as even some low light conditions. This plant is not fussy in this regard.

How Often to Water

Let the top 50% of soil dry out before watering again, check it once a week. They are not too demanding when it comes to watering, just don’t let it sit in soggy soil, so always let it drain off after watering, and do not water again until the soil is half dried out.

Fertilizer

Use a balanced feed once a month in spring and summer to encourage growth.

Philodendron Red Congo Soil

A really well draining potting mix is essential to avoid root rot and overwatering issues than can occur easily with philodendrons. You can use a standard potting mix and add 20% perlite for drainage.

For more on Philodendron soil see our guide on what to buy or how to make your own: Philodendron Soil.

When To Repot

Repot any time you see roots poking out the bottom of the pot or when the plant is obviously a bit root bound. Spring is the best time to do this, but it’s ok anytime of the year.

Philodendron Red Congo Humidity

40-60% humidity is ideal for this plant. Most households are 30-50% humidity, so put these plants in a humid spot or mist it every couple of days if you can. They will tolerate most rooms, but like it a bit more humid.

Temperature

18°C to 25°C (64-77°F) is the ideal range for this plant. Don’t let it get too cold in the winter.

Philodendron Red Congo Propagation

Philodendrons are really easy to propagate, follow these steps:

  1. Take a stem cutting with at least one node and one leaf
  2. Leave the cutting for an hour or two for the wound to callous over.
  3. Put the cutting in a jar of wet sphagnum moss.
  4. Put it in a warm and sunny spot but without direct sun.
  5. In a month or two you should see a good root structure form.
  6. Pot the cutting up to a new pot, and then treat as normal plant.

For more on philodendrons see our philodendron category with all our philodendron care guides.

Is Philodendron Red Congo A Climber?

It is a self heading philodendron not a climber or a crawler.

Is It Toxic To Cats?

They are toxic to cats if eaten, and can cause vomiting and numbness. So seek vets advice immediately if your pet eats any.

Philodendron Red Congo USDA Zone

Zones 9-11.

Where To Buy

Try Etsy or one of these Rare Plant Shops.

Philodendron Red Congo
Image Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/CSlyw3vNVLo/

FAQs and Common Problems

Root rot from from overwatering can be an issue, so do not let it sit in overly wet soil, this is the major cause of death in philodendrons. At watering time do not flush the plant with water, but give them just enough water so that a few drops come out of the bottom and then leave it.

Philodendron Red Congo Scientific Name

Philodendron tatei ‘congo rojo’.

Philodendron Imperial Red Vs Rojo Congo

The rojo congo’s leaves are bigger and darker, they look like burgundy leather almost. The imperial red leaves are green with a red tint and are more elongated and thinner, they start off red and get greener as they mature. For more on the imperial red see our guide here: Philodendron Imperial Red.

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