Philodendron Erubescens Care: Ultimate Guide For Pink Princess

Philodendron erubescens, also known as the blushing philodendron or the red-leaf philodendron, is a tropical plant that belongs to the aroid family. It is native to Colombia and the rainforests of South America, where it can grow up to 60 feet in length as a climbing vine. As a houseplant, however, it usually stays around 3 feet long and produces attractive foliage with reddish or pink undersides.

Philodendron erubescens is easy to grow and care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions and avoid some common problems. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for philodendron erubescens, including its characteristics, types, growing considerations, care tips, propagation methods, and common issues.

Understanding Philodendron Erubescens | Pink Princess

Introduction to Philodendron Erubescens

Philodendron erubescens is one of the many varieties of philodendrons, which are popular houseplants for their hardiness, adaptability, and beauty. Philodendrons are vining plants that can either climb on a support or trail from a hanging basket. They have heart-shaped leaves that vary in size, color, and pattern depending on the type. Philodendrons are also known for their ability to purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

We have also given a detailed care guide for Philodendron Micans, whcich is also known as velvet leaf philodendron or philodendron hederaceum var. hederaceum. It is a vining plant that can either trail down from a hanging basket or climb up a moss pole or trellis.

Characteristics of Philodendron Erubescens

Characteristic	Description
Scientific Name	Philodendron erubescens
Leaf Characteristics	– Large, glossy leaves
	– Reddish or pink undersides
Stem Characteristics	– Red or burgundy stems
Leaf Size	Up to 16 inches wide
Leaf Texture	Waxy texture
Aerial Roots	Yes, produces aerial roots for climbing
Flower Characteristics	– Deep red flowers
	– Enclosed in a spathe (modified leaf protecting the flower)
Flowering	Rare in indoor conditions
	Requires high humidity and light

The Phenomena of Variegation in Philodendron Erubescens

Some types of philodendron erubescens have variegated leaves, which means they have patches or streaks of different colors. Variegation is caused by genetic mutations or environmental factors that affect the production of chlorophyll, the pigment that gives plants their green color. Variegated plants are often more attractive and valuable than their plain counterparts, but they may also be more difficult to grow and care for. Variegated plants need more light than non-variegated ones, as they have less chlorophyll to photosynthesize. They may also revert to their original color if they are stressed or damaged.

Types of Philodendron Erubescens Varieties

Overview of Philodendron Erubescens Varieties

There are more than a dozen hybrid cultivars of philodendron erubescens that can be found in cultivation. Each variety has its own unique features and preferences. Some of the most common and popular varieties are:

Pink Princess: A Popular Variety

• Pink Princess: A Popular Variety Pink Princess is one of the most sought-after varieties of philodendron erubescens, as it has stunning pink variegation on its dark green leaves. The pink color can range from pale to bright, and it can cover up to half of the leaf surface. Pink Princess is a slow grower and needs bright indirect light to maintain its variegation. It also needs high humidity and well-draining soil.

Red Emerald: Distinguished by Bright Red Stems

• Red Emerald: Distinguished by Bright Red Stems Red Emerald is another eye-catching variety of philodendron erubescens, as it has bright red stems that contrast with its dark green leaves. The leaves have reddish undersides and veins, and they can grow up to 12 inches long. Red Emerald is a fast grower and can climb up to 6 feet tall with the help of a trellis or a moss pole. It prefers medium to bright indirect light and moderate humidity.

Green Emerald: For the Greenery Lovers

• Green Emerald: For the Greenery Lovers Green Emerald is a simple but elegant variety of philodendron erubescens, as it has vibrant green leaves that have no variegation or red coloration. The leaves are glossy and smooth, and they can grow up to 10 inches long. Green Emerald is a self-heading variety, which means it does not climb or trail like other philodendrons. It forms dense clusters of individual plants that can reach up to 3 feet tall. It thrives in low to medium indirect light and moderate humidity.

Growing Considerations for Philodendron Erubescens

Optimizing Light Conditions for Healthy Growth

Aspect of Light Conditions	Description
Plant Species	Philodendron erubescens
Sunlight Tolerance	– Does not tolerate direct sunlight
	– Too much bright light can scorch the leaves and cause yellow or brown discoloration
Ideal Light Condition	Bright indirect light
Definition of Ideal Light	Light is filtered or diffused by a curtain, sheer, or another plant
Suitable Window Placement	– Near an east, west, or south-facing window
	– Ensure sun’s rays do not directly touch the foliage
North-Facing Window	– May require supplemental artificial light
Supplemental Lighting Options	– Fluorescent or LED lamp can provide the needed light for healthy growth of Philodendron erubescens

Importance of Temperature and Humidity

Aspect of Temperature and Humidity	Description
Plant Species	Philodendron erubescens
Temperature Preferences	– Prefers warm temperatures
Ideal Temperature Range	Between 64 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (18 and 25 degrees Celsius)
Cold Tolerance	– Avoid temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius)
	– Cold exposure can cause damage and lead to leaf drop
Humidity Preferences	– Thrives in high humidity environments
Ideal Humidity Range	Between 50 and 80 percent humidity
Increasing Humidity	– Use a humidifier
	– Place a pebble tray with water near the plant
	– Use a misting bottle to increase humidity
Avoidance of Dry Conditions	– Prevent placing the plant near heating or cooling vents
	– Ensures that the air and soil do not dry out

Balancing Water to Avoid Root Rot

Philodendron erubescens is drought-tolerant, but it does not like to be overwatered, as this can cause root rot and fungal infections. The best way to water your philodendron erubescens is to check the soil moisture before watering. You can use your finger to feel the top inch of the soil, or use a moisture meter to measure the soil moisture level.

If the soil feels dry, water your plant thoroughly until the water drains out of the drainage holes. If the soil feels moist or wet, wait until it dries out before watering again. The frequency of watering will depend on the season, the light, the temperature, and the pot size. Generally, you will need to water your philodendron erubescens more often in summer than in winter, and more often in smaller pots than in larger pots.

The Perfect Pot for Philodendron Erubescens

Choosing the Right Pot for Your Philodendron

The pot you choose for your philodendron erubescens can affect its health and growth. The most important factor to consider is drainage. You need to choose a pot that has drainage holes at the bottom, as this will allow excess water to escape and prevent root rot. You also need to choose a pot that is appropriate for the size of your plant. You do not want to choose a pot that is too big or too small for your plant. A pot that is too big will hold too much water and soil, which can cause overwatering and nutrient imbalance. A pot that is too small will restrict the root growth and limit the water and nutrient uptake. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is about one or two inches larger than the current pot.

Materials, Sizes, and Drainage Considerations

The material of the pot can also affect your philodendron erubescens. Different materials have different advantages and disadvantages when it comes to drainage, weight, durability, and aesthetics. Some of the common materials are:

Pot Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Plastic	– Lightweight	– Overheats in direct sunlight
	– Inexpensive	– Degrades over time, leaches chemicals into the soil
	– Easy to clean
	– Retains moisture well
Ceramic	– Heavy	– Expensive
	– Sturdy	– Fragile, prone to cracking or chipping
	– Attractive	– Absorbs water from soil, causes salt buildup
	– Good drainage and insulation	– Potential root burn
Terracotta	– Porous, breathable	– Heavy, brittle, and expensive
	– Natural-looking	– Dries out quickly, can cause dehydration
	– Good drainage and aeration	– Potential nutrient deficiency
	– Prevents root rot and fungal infections

Key Aspects of Philodendron Erubescens Care | Grow And Care

Fertilizing Your Philodendron Erubescens

Philodendron erubescens does not need much fertilizer to grow well. However, you can give it a boost of nutrients during its active growing season, which is spring and summer. You can use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 15:15:15 once a month. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer according to the label instructions and apply it after watering your plant. Do not fertilize your plant in winter, as this can cause fertilizer burn and leaf damage.

Pruning to Maintain Shape and Speed Up Growth

Philodendron erubescens is a fast-growing plant that can become leggy and unruly if left unpruned. Pruning can help you maintain the shape and size of your plant, as well as encourage new growth and branching. You can prune your philodendron erubescens anytime, but the best time is in spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing. You can use a sharp and sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut off any unwanted or damaged stems or leaves. You can also remove any aerial roots that are growing out of the pot or along the stems. Make sure to cut at an angle, just above a leaf node, which is where a leaf attaches to the stem. You can use the cuttings to propagate new plants, or discard them in a compost bin.

Potting and Repotting Your Plant

Philodendron erubescens does not need to be repotted frequently, as it likes to be slightly root-bound. However, you may need to repot your plant if it outgrows its current pot, if the soil becomes compacted or depleted, or if the roots start to rot. The best time to repot your philodendron erubescens is in spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing. You can choose a new pot that is one or two inches larger than the current one, and has drainage holes at the bottom. You can also use a fresh and well-draining potting mix that contains organic matter and perlite. To repot your philodendron erubescens, follow these steps:

• Water your plant thoroughly a day before repotting, to make it easier to remove from the old pot.
• Gently loosen the soil around the edges of the old pot, and carefully lift the plant out of the pot. Try not to damage the roots as you do so.
• Inspect the roots for any signs of rot, disease, or pests. Cut off any unhealthy roots with a sharp and sterile knife.
• Fill the new pot with some potting mix, and make a hole in the center for the plant.
• Place the plant in the new pot, and spread the roots evenly around the hole. Make sure the plant is at the same level as it was in the old pot.
• Fill in the remaining space with more potting mix, and gently press it down to eliminate any air pockets.
• Water your plant well, and let the excess water drain out of the drainage holes.
• Place your plant in a bright and humid spot, and avoid fertilizing it for a few weeks.

Techniques To Propagate Philodendron Erubescens Red Emerald

Propagating Philodendron Erubescens from Cuttings

One of the easiest ways to propagate philodendron erubescens is by using stem cuttings. You can take stem cuttings from your existing plant anytime, but the best time is in spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing. You can use a sharp and sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut off a stem that has at least two or three leaves and one or two aerial roots. You can then place the cutting in water or soil to root.

To root your cutting in water, follow these steps:

• Fill a glass jar or vase with clean water, and change it every few days to prevent algae growth and bacterial infection.
• Place your cutting in the water, making sure that at least one aerial root is submerged in water.
• Place your jar or vase in a bright and warm spot, but away from direct sunlight.
• Wait for roots to develop, which may take from two to six weeks depending on the temperature and light conditions.
• Once you see healthy roots that are about an inch long, you can transplant your cutting into a pot with well-draining soil.

To root your cutting in soil, follow these steps:

• Prepare a small pot with well-draining soil that contains organic matter and perlite.
• Make a hole in the center of the soil with your finger or a pencil.
• Dip the cut end of your cutting in rooting hormone powder (optional), and insert it into the hole.
• Gently press the soil around the cutting to secure it in place.
• Water your cutting well, and let the excess water drain out of the drainage holes.
• Cover your pot with a clear plastic bag or dome to create a mini greenhouse effect that will increase humidity and speed up rooting.
• Place your pot in a bright and warm spot, but away from direct sunlight.
• Check on your cutting regularly, and mist it with water if needed to keep it moist but not soggy.
• Wait for roots to develop, which may take from four to eight weeks depending on the temperature and light conditions.
• Once you see new growth emerging from the soil or through the plastic bag or dome, you can remove the cover and transplant your cutting into a larger pot with well-draining soil.

Growing Philodendron Erubescens from a Starter Plant

Another way to propagate philodendron erubescens is by using a starter plant, which is a small plant that has been grown from a cutting or a seed. You can buy a starter plant from a nursery, a garden center, or an online store. You can also get a starter plant from a friend or a fellow plant lover who has an established philodendron erubescens. To grow your philodendron erubescens from a starter plant, follow these steps:

• Choose a healthy and vigorous starter plant that has at least two or three leaves and one or two aerial roots. Avoid any plant that has yellowed, browned, or wilted leaves, or signs of pests or diseases.
• Prepare a pot that is about the same size as the pot of the starter plant, and has drainage holes at the bottom. You can use the same potting mix as the one used for the starter plant, or use a fresh and well-draining potting mix that contains organic matter and perlite.
• Carefully remove the starter plant from its original pot, and gently loosen the soil around the roots. Try not to damage the roots as you do so.
• Place the starter plant in the new pot, and spread the roots evenly around the hole. Make sure the plant is at the same level as it was in the original pot.
• Fill in the remaining space with more potting mix, and gently press it down to eliminate any air pockets.
• Water your plant well, and let the excess water drain out of the drainage holes.
• Place your plant in a bright and humid spot, and follow the same care tips as for an established philodendron erubescens.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

Identifying and Treating Common Pests

Philodendron erubescens is generally resistant to pests, but it may occasionally attract some common houseplant pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of your plant, causing them to become discolored, deformed, or drop off. They can also spread diseases and viruses to your plant. To identify and treat common pests on your philodendron erubescens, follow these steps:

• Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of pests or their damage. Look for small white cottony masses (mealybugs), fine webbing (spider mites), tiny green or black bugs (aphids), or brown or gray hard shells (scale insects) on the leaves and stems of your plant. You may also see honeydew, which is a sticky substance excreted by some pests, on the leaves or on the surface below your plant.
• If you find any pests on your plant, isolate it from other plants to prevent them from spreading.
• Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe off any visible pests from your plant. You can also use a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of mild dish soap to spray your plant thoroughly, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves and the stems. This will suffocate and wash off most of the pests.
• Repeat this process every few days until you see no more signs of pests on your plant.
• If the infestation is severe or persistent, you may need to use a stronger pesticide such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, or horticultural oil to treat your plant. Follow the label instructions carefully and apply the pesticide in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using pesticides that contain copper, as this can harm your philodendron erubescens.

Addressing Foliage Problems: Yellowed Leaves, Brown Leaves, and Leaf Spots

Philodendron erubescens is generally easy to grow and care for, but it may sometimes develop some foliage problems such as yellowed leaves, brown leaves, and leaf spots. These problems can be caused by various factors such as improper watering, lighting, temperature, humidity, fertilizer, disease, or injury. To address foliage problems on your philodendron erubescens, follow these steps:

• Identify the cause of the problem by checking the symptoms and conditions of your plant. Some common causes and solutions are:
  • Yellowed leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, too much light,
• • Brown leaves: This can be caused by too much sun, low humidity, fertilizer burn, or disease. To prevent or treat brown leaves, you can move your plant to a shadier spot, increase the humidity around your plant, reduce the amount of fertilizer you use, or prune off any diseased or damaged leaves.
  • Leaf spots: This can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, or by insect bites. To prevent or treat leaf spots, you can improve the air circulation around your plant, avoid wetting the leaves when watering, use a fungicide or a bactericide to treat the infection, or remove any affected leaves.
  • Trim off any unhealthy or unsightly leaves from your plant with a sharp and sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears. Make sure to cut at an angle, just above a leaf node, which is where a leaf attaches to the stem. This will help your plant heal faster and prevent further infection or injury.
  • Monitor your plant for any signs of improvement or deterioration. Adjust your care routine accordingly and seek professional help if needed.

Disease Prevention and Intervention Strategies

Philodendron erubescens is generally healthy and resistant to diseases, but it may sometimes contract some fungal or bacterial infections that can affect its growth and appearance. Some common diseases that can affect philodendron erubescens are:

• Leaf spot: This is a fungal or bacterial infection that causes brown or black spots on the leaves, surrounded by yellow halos. The spots may merge and enlarge, and the leaves may drop off. Leaf spot can be caused by poor air circulation, high humidity, or wetting the leaves when watering.
• Root rot: This is a fungal infection that causes the roots to decay and turn brown or black. Root rot can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or contaminated soil. Root rot can also spread to the stems and leaves, causing them to wilt and die.
• Anthracnose: This is a fungal infection that causes irregular brown or black lesions on the leaves and stems. Anthracnose can be caused by high humidity, low light, or injury. Anthracnose can also cause leaf drop and stem dieback.

To prevent or treat diseases on your philodendron erubescens, you can follow these steps:

• Maintain good hygiene and sanitation around your plant. Remove any fallen leaves or debris from the pot and the surface below your plant. Sterilize your tools before and after using them on your plant. Avoid sharing tools or pots with other plants that may be infected.
• Improve the growing conditions for your plant. Provide adequate light, temperature, humidity, and ventilation for your plant. Avoid overwatering or underwatering your plant, and use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes. Avoid wetting the leaves when watering, or use a soft cloth to dry them off if they get wet.
• Use organic or chemical fungicides or bactericides to treat the infection. Follow the label instructions carefully and apply the product in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using products that contain copper, as this can harm your philodendron erubescens.
• Prune off any diseased or damaged leaves or stems from your plant with a sharp and sterile pair of scissors or pruning shears. Make sure to cut at an angle, just above a leaf node, which is where a leaf attaches to the stem. Dispose of the infected parts in a sealed bag or a compost bin away from other plants.
• Repot your plant if the infection has affected the roots or the soil. Choose a new pot that is slightly larger than the current one, and has drainage holes at the bottom. Use fresh and well-draining potting mix that contains organic matter and perlite. Carefully remove your plant from its old pot, and gently loosen the soil around the roots. Cut off any rotten or diseased roots with a sharp and sterile knife. Place your plant in the new pot, and spread the roots evenly around the hole. Fill in the remaining space with more potting mix, and gently press it down to eliminate any air pockets. Water your plant well, and let the excess water drain out of the drainage holes.

Philodendron Erubescens in Indoor Landscapes

Advantages of using Philodendron Erubescens as a Houseplant

Philodendron erubescens is an ideal houseplant for many reasons. Some of the advantages of using philodendron erubescens as a houseplant are:

• It is easy to grow and care for, as it does not require much attention or maintenance.
• It is adaptable to various light conditions, as it can tolerate low to bright indirect light.
• It is hardy and resilient, as it can survive occasional neglect or stress.
• It is attractive and colorful, as it has glossy leaves with reddish or pink undersides and stems.
• It is versatile and flexible, as it can either climb on a support or trail from a hanging basket.
• It is air-purifying, as it can remove toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

Complementing Home Decor with Philodendron Erubescens

Philodendron erubescens can complement any home decor with its stunning foliage and vibrant coloration. You can use philodendron erubescens to add some life and interest to any room in your house. Some of the ways you can use philodendron erubescens to enhance your home decor are:

• You can place philodendron erubescens on a shelf, a table, a windowsill, or a countertop to create a focal point or an accent piece.
• You can hang philodendron erubescens from a ceiling hook, a curtain rod, or a wall bracket to create a cascading effect or a vertical garden.
• You can train philodendron erubescens to climb on a trellis, a moss pole, or a wall to create a living wall or a green screen.
• You can pair philodendron erubescens with other plants that have contrasting colors, textures, or shapes to create a mixed container or a plant arrangement.
• You can choose a pot that matches or contrasts with your philodendron erubescens, and that suits your style and preference. You can use pots made from different materials, such as plastic, ceramic, terracotta, metal, or wood. You can also use pots with different shapes, such as round, square, oval, or rectangular. You can also use pots with different patterns, such as solid, striped, dotted, or floral.

Key Takeaways

Philodendron erubescens is a beautiful and easy-to-grow houseplant that can brighten up any space with its glossy leaves and reddish or pink coloration. To grow and care for philodendron erubescens, you need to provide it with the following conditions:

• Bright indirect light
• Warm temperatures
• High humidity
• Well-draining soil
• Moderate watering
• Occasional fertilizing
• Regular pruning
• Infrequent repotting

You can also propagate philodendron erubescens by using stem cuttings or starter plants. You can prevent or treat common pests and diseases by maintaining good hygiene and sanitation, improving the growing conditions, and using organic or chemical products. You can use philodendron erubescens to complement your home decor by placing it on a shelf, hanging it from a ceiling, training it to climb on a wall, pairing it with other plants, or choosing a pot that matches your style. Philodendron erubescens is a versatile and adaptable plant that can bring joy and beauty to any home.