Philodendron El Choco Red

If you’re looking for a truly stunning houseplant, the philodendron el choco red is a rare red-leafed beauty that commands attention. This sought-after aroid is famous for its large, heart-shaped leaves that emerge in a deep, velvety red before maturing to a dark green.

Finding one can be a challenge, and keeping it happy requires knowing its specific needs. But with the right care, this plant becomes a breathtaking centerpiece for any collection. Let’s look at how you can successfully grow and enjoy this spectacular philodendron.

This plant is native to the Chocó region of Colombia, which is where it gets its name. It’s a terrestrial or hemiepiphytic plant, meaning it can grow in the ground or start life on a tree. In your home, it will appreciate conditions that mimic that warm, humid, and bright understory environment.

The most striking feature is, of course, the foliage. New leaves are a profound, almost wine-red color with prominent light green veins. As the leaf hardens off, the red darkens and eventually transitions to a deep, glossy green, while the veins remain a contrasting lighter shade. The undersides of the leaves often retain a reddish tint.

Essential Care Requirements

Getting the basics right is key to seeing those vibrant red leaves. This plant isn’t the most difficult, but it does have clear preferences.

Light: The Key to Color

Bright, indirect light is absolutely non-negotiable for the Philodendron el choco red. This light intensity is what encourages the strong red pigmentation in new leaves.

Avoid direct sun, which will scorch the leaves.
A spot near an east or north-facing window is often ideal.
South or west windows need filtering with a sheer curtain.
In lower light, the plant will become leggy and the red color will be much less intense, or even dissapear.

Watering and Humidity

Watering needs change with the seasons. The goal is to keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy.

Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry.
Ensure the pot has excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering frequency in the winter when growth slows.

High humidity is a major plus. Aim for 60% or higher. You can increase humidity by:

Using a humidifier (most effective method).
Placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Grouping it with other humidity-loving plants.

Soil and Potting

A well-aerated, chunky potting mix is essential. It needs to retain some moisture but drain quickly. A good recipe is:

1 part high-quality indoor potting mix.
1 part orchid bark (for aeration).
1 part perlite or pumice (for drainage).
A handful of horticultural charcoal can help keep the mix fresh.

Repot every 1-2 years in spring, or when you see roots circling the pot. Only go up one pot size at a time.

Propagation Techniques

You can propagate your Philodendron el choco red through stem cuttings. This is best done in spring or early summer. Here’s how:

Choose a healthy stem with at least one node (the bump where leaves and roots grow from) and one or two leaves.
Using a clean, sharp knife or shears, cut just below a node.
You can root the cutting in water or moist sphagnum moss. Place the node in your chosen medium, but keep the leaf dry.
Place in bright, indirect light and keep the medium moist (not wet).
Roots should begin to develop in 2-4 weeks. Once they are a few inches long, pot the cutting into your aroid soil mix.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s what to watch for.

Yellowing Leaves

This is a common sign of overwatering. Check the soil moisture and ensure your pot drains well. Older leaves occasionally yellow and drop as part of natural growth, but widespread yellowing points to a watering issue.

Brown Leaf Edges or Tips

This is often caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering. It can also be a sign of salt and mineral buildup from tap water. Try using distilled, rainwater, or filtered water and boost your humidity levels.

Pests

Like many houseplants, it can be susceptible to common pests. Keep an eye out for:

Spider Mites: Tiny specks and fine webbing, especially in dry conditions. Wipe leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: White, cottony masses in leaf axils. Dab with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Fungus Gnats: Small black flies around the soil. They indicate overly moist soil. Let the soil dry out more between waterings and use sticky traps.

Fertilizing for Optimal Growth

Feed your plant during its active growing season (spring and summer). A balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength works well. Apply it once a month. Do not fertilize in the fall and winter when the plant is resting. Over-fertilizing can damage the roots and cause leaf burn, so when in doubt, use less.

FAQ About the Philodendron El Choco Red

How fast does the Philodendron el choco red grow?
With ideal conditions—good light, warmth, and humidity—it can be a moderately fast grower, putting out several new leaves in a growing season. Growth slows significantly in lower light or cooler temperatures.

Is the Philodendron el choco red a climber?
Yes, it is a vining or climbing philodendron. In your home, it will appreciate a moss pole or sturdy trellis to attach its aerial roots to. This support encourages larger leaf growth and a more upright, tidy appearance.

Why are the new leaves on my el choco red not very red?
Insufficient light is the most common reason. Move it to a brighter location with strong indirect light. Also, very young leaves often start a bit lighter and deepen in color as they harden off. Be patient and assess your light source.

Is this plant toxic to pets?
Yes, like all philodendrons, the Philodendron el choco red contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It can cause oral irritation and digestive upset. Keep it in a place where your pets cannot reach it.

Can I grow it in a terrarium?

It can be grown in a very large, well-ventilated terrarium or greenhouse cabinet when it’s young. However, given its potential size and vining habit, it will quickly outgrow most enclosed spaces. It is better suited as a free-standing houseplant with a moss pole.

Where can I buy a Philodendron el choco red?
Due to its rarity, you won’t typically find it at standard garden centers. Check specialized online houseplant shops, auctions on plant-focused marketplaces, or local plant swap groups. Always buy from reputable sellers to ensure you get a healthy, correctly identified plant.

Caring for a Philodendron el choco red is a rewarding experience for any plant enthusiast. Its dramatic foliage offers a constant, changing display of color. By providing the right balance of light, moisture, and humidity, you’ll be able to enjoy this exceptional plant for many years to come. Remember, the key is observing your plant and adjusting your care to match its needs—each home environment is a little bit different. With a little attention, your rare red-leafed beauty will thrive.