Philodendron Red Congo

The Philodendron 'Red Congo', also marketed as 'Rojo Congo', is a robust, easy-to-grow, non-climbing variety, with thick stems and an upright, well-balanced habit. The leaves emerge red or chocolate-coloured. This philodendron thrives with minimal difficulty in moderate to bright light, without direct sunlight. It tolerates temporary lapses in watering and occasional neglect, and accepts ambient humidity of 50% or more. Its growth is rapid with appropriate care.

Belonging to the Araceae family, the Philodendron 'Red Congo' is derived from the hybrid ‘Congo’ and the species Philodendron tatei, native to the tropical forests of South America. At maturity, 'Red Congo' reaches 70 to 80 cm in height and 1m in width. It is not a climbing plant and does not require staking. Its stems are thick and upright, and its silhouette is compact yet open. The mid-height leaves grow horizontally, while those at the top of the stem are more upright. Glossy and elongated, they emerge in red hues, then turn chocolate brown before darkening to deep green over the weeks. Mature leaves are ovate, thick, leathery, and glossy, reaching around 45 cm in length. Like many philodendrons, this plant is toxic if ingested due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.

The Philodendron 'Red Congo' is tolerant of its growing conditions. Placed in a spacious living room, a prominent spot, or a bright conservatory, it draws attention with its striking structure and foliage. Consider pairing it with plants that have similar needs, such as other members of the Araceae family like the Alocasia zebrina.