Find out how to grow ‘Red Congo’ Philodendron in your indoor garden and get them to thrive. This stunning hybrid philodendron is a cross between Philodendron ‘Imperial Red’ and Philodendron tatei. The plant is native to South America and easy to grow indoors if you know what to do. Learn Red Congo’s lighting, watering, fertilizing, humidity needs, and more. See care time stamps below.
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Today’s plant care video features the Red Congo Philodendron, a stunning hybrid cultivar with several names, including Philodendron Tatia Congo Red, Rojo Philodendron, Congo Rojo, and Red Congo. “Rojo” means red in Spanish, referring to the beautiful red tones that dominate this plant’s foliage.
The Red Congo Philodendron is a hybrid of Philodendron Imperial Red and Philodendron Tatyi. Originating from South America, it grows as an understory plant on jungle floors. Unlike vining philodendrons, Red Congo grows from a single central stem in a clumping, upright pattern—known as self-heading. This means it grows vertically without needing support, although large plants may occasionally lean and benefit from minor support.
The plant showcases glossy, lush leaves that shift between deep red and green as they mature. These colors make it a striking addition to any indoor space. Indoors, Red Congo grows slowly to moderately and can reach up to four feet in height over time. Mature plants may bloom in pink, purple, red, green, or white, though flowering indoors is rare.
Other similar hybrids include Imperial Red, Black Cardinal, Moonlight, Red Emerald, and Autumn. While still somewhat rare, these hybrids are becoming more common.
🌞 Lighting
To keep Red Congo healthy, simulate its natural environment. Since its parent plants grow on rainforest floors, it prefers medium to bright indirect light—ideal near unobstructed northern or eastern windows. Western or southern windows can also work if the plant is placed three to five feet away to avoid burning its foliage.
Avoid low-light conditions as they lead to weak growth and plant lean. Rotate the plant slightly with each watering to promote even growth. In darker homes, Red Congo adapts well to full-spectrum grow lights.
💧 Watering
Watering can be a bit tricky. Red Congo doesn’t tolerate overwatering or underwatering well. Too much water causes root rot and yellowing leaves; too little leads to crisp edges and slow growth. Water when the top two inches of soil have dried out. Use warm water, which mimics the plant’s tropical habitat.
🌿 Fertilizing
Fertilize monthly from spring through fall with a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 3-2-2 or 4-4-4). In warm climates, continue in winter. Avoid chemical fertilizers to prevent root dieback.
💦 Humidity
Red Congo prefers 50–60% humidity. If your home is under 40%, add humidity using a humidifier or place the plant on a pebble tray. Dry air may cause leaf tips to brown or lead to leaf drop.
🌡️ Temperature
Maintain temperatures between 65–85°F. Red Congo tolerates heat up to 95°F but dislikes drafts or cold air from windows and vents.
🪴 Repotting
Repot every two to three years using rich, well-draining soil with added pumice or perlite. Follow the two-thirds plant to one-third pot rule to prevent root rot. The plant is comfortable being slightly root-bound and may develop burgundy-colored aerial roots that help absorb moisture.
✂️ Pruning
Prune by removing yellowing or browning leaves near the base without damaging the main stem.
🐛 Pests and Diseases
Red Congo may occasionally attract mealybugs or scale. Treat infestations with 91% isopropyl alcohol, then rinse the plant. Brown or spotted leaves often indicate bacterial disease from overwatering—remove affected leaves and reduce watering.
Red Congo Philodendron Care FAQ
What is the Red Congo Philodendron?
The Red Congo Philodendron is a hybrid tropical plant known for its glossy red and green leaves. It’s a self-heading plant that grows upright from a central stem.
What kind of light does Red Congo Philodendron need?
It prefers medium to bright indirect light, such as near northern or eastern windows. Avoid direct sun and very low-light conditions.
How often should I water my Red Congo Philodendron?
Water when the top two inches of soil are dry. Use warm water and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
What temperature and humidity are best for Red Congo?
Keep the plant in 65–85°F with 50–60% humidity. Avoid drafts and dry indoor air.
How do I repot a Red Congo Philodendron?
Repot every 2–3 years in rich, well-draining soil. Only repot when the plant outgrows its pot or roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes.
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