The Red Princess philodendron is an evergreen (or should we say ever red) plant that climbs. It has attractive green leaves with red undersides and red stems. Mottled patches in various shades of pink often appear on the plant.
It is reasonably fast-growing with the right care and attention. These plants are popular with plant enthusiasts and anyone who wants to create an urban jungle in their home.
What is a Red Princess Philodendron Plant?
The Red Princess philodendron is a very popular hybrid houseplant variety. It’s the perfect tropical plant for beginners as it’s easy to care for and looks excellent. Red Princess philodendrons get their name due to their colorful foliage. They have large unique leaves which are very eye-catching and make great attrition to your home, office, or in warmer climates in your yard.
The Red Princess philodendron is a fast-growing climber that can produce lovely flowers. Most plants that are grown as houseplants will never bloom. These plants can be grown in soil or as an epiphytic plant. They can be planted in large hanging baskets or in a pot with a moss pole as a growing support.
The Red Princess philodendron is toxic to humans and animals if ingested. Eating the leaves or stems of this plant will likely cause severe discomfort, including vomiting and diarrhea. These plants are poisonous to pets and livestock. It would help if you also were careful when handling these plants as they contain sap which can cause skin irritation.
How to Care for a Red Princess Philodendron?
This plant is a fast-growing tropical vine that likes warmer temperatures. The plant thrives in partial shade and requires regular watering to stay healthy. These plants are considered a good starter plant for homeowners as they are very easy to care for. Here’s what you need to do to help your plant thrive.
Sunlight
Red Princess philodendron likes warmer temperatures as it’s a tropical plant. It should be grown in areas that are about 66 to 75F. These plants should be placed in bright indirect sunlight. They can also thrive in partial shade, which makes them great houseplants.
Don’t leave your Red Princess philodendron in the full sun, or its leaves will become scorched and turn brown. Too much sun can kill your plant in the long run.
Watering
The Red Princess philodendron likes to live in moist soil as it’s a tropical plant. It is also reasonably drought-resistant, but neglect could kill your plant, so getting into the habit of regular watering is a wise idea. It’s best to test your plant’s soil regularly and keep it moist but not soggy. Overwatering can cause root rot.
These plants need more water during the growing season. Watering can be reduced slightly in the late fall and throughout the winter months. You can also spray or wipe your plant’s leaves using a damp cloth to increase humidity levels. In the summer months, mist your plant with a fine spray once or twice a day. Be careful not to soak your plant’s foliage, as this could cause the leaves to rot.
Fertilizer
The Red Princess philodendron can be provided with a balanced houseplant fertilizer throughout the growing season. You can grow these plants in a soilless potting mix that contains peat moss and orchid bark. Adding a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly will help improve your plant’s health and allow it to put on new growth.
Pests and Diseases
Red Princess philodendrons are relatively pest-resistant but can sometimes be affected by insect infestation or fungal infections. Dasheen mosaic virus is a common fungal infection that can affect these plants. If overwatered, they can also develop root rot or bacterial leaf spots. The Red Princess philodendron can become infested by mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects.
Propagation and Potting
The Red Princess philodendron can be propagated via air layered in the early spring. If you plan to grow a plant from seed, you should sew in the spring when temperatures reach at least 65F.
Conclusion
Red Princess philodendrons are beautiful plants with red and green foliage. They look great in any home and are fast-growing and easy to care for. These plants have a vine-like growing habit and will climb up a stake or cascade from a large hanging basket.
Red princess is expensive. There are many beautiful types of philodendron, such as the philodendron Lemon Lime, which is another great choice for the home or office.