Philodendron Imperial Red

The Philodendron Imperial Red has leaves that go from a dark red to rich burgundy, finally maturing to a deep green that is almost black.

I am a decorative foliage plant with large leathery leaves. When my leaves come out they are bright red but they'll darken as they mature, turning deep purple, and finally a dark glossy green.

This unusual plant is a relatively new hybrid, bred specifically to be a robust houseplant, so you should have no trouble keeping it in shape. Just make sure it's away from direct sunlight, kept lightly moist, but not drenched, and make sure you dust its big leaves.

In return, this plant will help improve air quality by filtering substances such as formaldehyde and benzene! Being unusually dark in appearance, it will also add variety to your plant collection. Higher biodiversity in your environment has been linked to improved mental wellbeing (if you need an extra incentive to buy this glossy beauty!)

Medium: Growing pot size is 14cm. Overall plant height including growing pot: 35-45cm

Large: Growing pot size is 27cm. Overall plant height including growing pot: 80-90cm

Pets: Harmful to pets

Useful to know:

Origin

I can be found in the West Indies and the Tropical Rainforests of Central and South America.

Height/Growth

I grow fairly quickly and can reach as high as 120cm indoors.

Light

I like moderate to brighly lit rooms, but can tolerate some shade. Keep me away from direct sunlight.

Water

Keep me lightly moist but let the top inch of my soil dry between waterings to ensure my roots don't rot.

Temperature

A warm environment is best, I'll suffer if I'm in a room below 12°C.

Feeding

Feed me with diluted liquid fertiliser every 2-3 times over spring and Summer.

Grooming

Dust my brilliant leaves to keep them looking tip-top, and to allow me to photosynthesise correctly.

Care

I can get brown leaves if you leave me in sunlight, and if you over or under water me. Too much light will cause brown spots. Too much water will make me wilt and too little water will give me dry tips and edges.

Toxicity

I contain calcium oxalate crystals which are poisonous. Keep me away from children and pets and take care when handling.

Fact

With my robust foliage, I am a champion air purifier. Pop me in an enclosed office or in the home and I will absorb some of the nasties in the air. 

*Decorative pot sold separately.