Location

Palm Garden / Walkways

Blushing Philodendron

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Blushing Philodendron

​Philodendron erubescens​​

• ​Common Name:  Blushing Philodendron, Red-leaf Philodendron, Pink Princess
  
• Scientific Name: Philodendron Erubescens
  
• Family Name: Araceae
  
• Origin:  Colombia
  
• Height: 24 inches, vine length can be up to 12 feet.  
  
• Width: 12-18 inches  
  
• Growth:  Moderate to rapid.
  
• Zone: US Zones 10a-11
  
• Light Needs: Partial to full shade.
  
• Salt Tolerance: Mildly salt tolerant.
  
• Soil/PH/Texture: Requires well-drained soil.
  
• Soil Moisture: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Do not allow plant to stand in water. Philodendrons also appreciate a humid environment.
  
• Drought Tolerance: Medium, prefers humidity and consistently moist soil.
  
• Pests/Diseases: Generally pest free, occasionally bothered by aphids.
  
• Growing Conditions: Plant in humus rich soil in part shade.
  
• Characteristics: A robust evergreen climbing vine. Stems are red. Lance-shaped leaves are shiny green on top and often coppery red underneath. Inconspicuous white flowers bloom inside a red spathe only rarely.  
  
• Propagation: Stem cuttings. Can also be grown from seed if it is removed from the berry which contains chemicals that inhibit germination.
  
• Wildlife: In the wild, philodendrons are a source of food for some species of monkeys and bats. Their sugary sap can also be attractive to ants.
  
• Facts: Blushing philodendron grows well outdoors in south Florida. It also thrives indoors with bright indirect lighting and moderate humidity. Contains calcium oxalate crystals which can be a strong oral irritant.
  
• Designer Considerations: Blushing philodendron makes an excellent container or hanging basket specimen. Leaf shape and color can vary on the same plant and make a beautiful and interesting specimen.