Philodendron erubescens, commonly known as the Blushing Philodendron or Red-leaf Philodendron, is a stunningly beautiful and versatile plant that has captivated the hearts of indoor plant enthusiasts worldwide. This species is part of the large Philodendron genus, known for its easy care and striking appearance.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Philodendron erubescens, the blushing philodendron or red-leaf philodendron, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae, native to Colombia.
The size of Philodendron erubescens can vary significantly depending on its growing conditions. In its native habitat, it can reach 60 feet in height (18 meters). However, when grown indoors, it typically grows 3 feet tall (90 cm) and 16 inches wide (40 cm).

While Philodendron erubescens is primarily grown for its foliage, it can produce flowers, especially in optimal conditions. The flowers are typical of the aroid family, featuring a spadix surrounded by a spathe, though they are not as commonly seen in indoor settings. The flowering event is a rare and special occurrence in mature plants.
The foliage of Philodendron erubescens is arguably its most attractive feature. The leaves are large, glossy, and heart-shaped, up to 16 inches long (40 cm), with a rich color palette that adds depth and beauty to any collection. The striking contrast between the green tops and the reddish-purple undersides of the leaves is particularly eye-catching, making it a popular choice for decorative purposes.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Philodendron erubescens is a shade-loving philodendron. These plants dislike bright sunlight and should not be exposed to full sun outdoors. Indoors, an east-facing window with morning light would be a good situation. Don’t let the sun’s rays touch the foliage; if several leaves turn yellow, it might be getting too much sunlight.
Temperature & Humidity

Great you have found a perfect spot in a well-lit room, creating a native environment for your blushing plant. Still, it helps to provide them with the right temperature and humidity simultaneously.
The Philodendron erubescens blushing plant thrives in warm temperatures. So, your plant will be at its happiest indoors in temperatures between 70° to 80° F.
Still, your plant can resist more eminent temperatures in indirect sunlight. But your plant is not a frost-hardy lover. Now, like most houseplants from the tropics, your plant loves humidity levels of 50%. But if you live in dry to freezing climates, it helps to have a hygrometer that is useful.
The apparatus informs you about the humidity to keep your plants happy as it adjusts measurements accordingly.
Watering
Water this plant twice a week. Refrain from watering until the top 50% of the soil is dry. This will allow your plant to most effectively absorb the water that it receives. In the winter months, reduce the amount of water the plant gets each session in order to allow the soil to become even dryer.
To check the water levels of your plant’s soil, place a water meter 6-8 inches into the soil, where it will give you an accurate indication. If you do n’t own a water meter, stick one finger knuckle-deep into the soil. At this depth, you will be able to accurately account for the soil’s level of moistness.
Soil
Philodendron plants aren’t very particular about soil, and most standard potting mixes are suitable. The plant does best in a loamy, nutrient-rich, quick-draining soil. Opt for a mixture with a neutral to acidic pH. If the soil mix is too heavy, add a little sand.
Fertilizing

Your Philodendron plants are aggressive climbers and need nutrition to survive compared to other plants. You can feed them every month with a 15-15-15 fertilizer or a 10-10-10 feed reduced to half strength.
If you notice your plants not developing, you can increase the feed once every two weeks. Still, if you do not provide it with a good fertilizer will not die but only have slow growth.
Pruning
Philodendrons don’t need to be pruned often, but they can sometimes get a little too large for their space or become long and leggy. The best time of the year to prune P. erubescens is during the spring or fall, though you can remove yellow leaves or trim thin growth at any time of year.
To prune a philodendron, make cuts using sharp, sterile scissors or pruning shears. Cut where the stem meets the main vine of the plant; if you can’t see where it connects, cut the stem off at the soil’s surface.
Propagation
Like most vining philodendrons, P. erubescens can easily be propagated by cuttings and division. When taking a piece of the stem, make sure to take a piece with multiple aerial roots. Older plants will sprout aerial roots on their leaf nodes that simultaneously act as roots and grab onto surfaces. It’s best to propagate philodendrons in the spring when the plant is actively growing, but plants that are outgrowing their pots can be propagated in other seasons if necessary. Here’s how:
- Gather a new container for the cutting, then fill it with the appropriate soil mixture.
- Locate a stem with multiple aerial roots to take a cutting. If propagating by division, locate a stem growing on the side of the plant.
- Using a clean pair of gardening shears, trim off the stem of your choice.
- Plant the stem in its new container and place it in a spot with bright, indirect light.
- Water the soil, allowing it to drain fully, then care for the plant as usual.
How to Grow from Seed

Growing P. erubescens from seed is a relatively simple process. Here’s how:
- Gather a fresh pot filled with soil, plastic wrap, and your philodendron seeds.
- Plant the seeds about 1/3 inch deep in moist soil, then lay a piece of plastic wrap over the top of the pot to trap moisture inside until they germinate.
- Check the soil regularly to ensure it does not dry out.
- Place the pot in an area with bright, indirect light and consistent temperatures between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Within two weeks to two months, the seeds should sprout. At this point, the plants can be cared for as usual.
Potting and Repotting
Younger P. erubescens plants are rampant growers. You will likely need to repot your plant every spring at the beginning of the growing season. After its first year, when it’s ready to climb (or even on its first repotting after sprouting), it’s helpful to provide some structure for it to climb on.
This plant isn’t necessarily picky about what it likes to climb, but it can be difficult to train a plant to “take hold” of its climbing pole and begin its ascent. To encourage climbing, gently tie the main vine to the support and train it upward. The hope is that it will eventually decide to grab onto the pole on its own. Older plants are considerably harder to repot because of the climbing poles. If this is an issue, simply scrape off the top layers of soil and replace them with fresh soil and new fertilizer.
Overwintering
P. erubescens should be grown indoors in most climates to maintain consistent temperatures, but some hotter regions of the country can accommodate this species outdoors year-round. If you live in an area that doesn’t drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter, your P. erubescens can survive outside.

On the other hand, growing this plant in other areas requires overwintering indoors if the plant is placed outside during the growing season. Gradually move your plant inside to a room with bright, indirect light and similar temperatures. Once nighttime temperatures are above 55 degrees in the spring, your plant can be taken back outside.
Pests and Diseases
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Philodendrons are vulnerable to pests including aphids, mealybugs, scale, and white fly. If possible, identify any pest infestations as early as possible. Treat pests on your P. erubescens plant by mixing 2 1/2 tablespoons of Dawn dish soap in 1 gallon of water, then spraying the entirety of the plant down.
Your P. erubescens may also be susceptible to leaf spot diseases, which appear as either brown or yellow spots on the leaves. Thankfully, these fungal diseases can typically be prevented by watering your plant at the bottom—rather than on its leaves—to keep the leaves dry. For plants that have already been affected mildly, apply a fungicide to the entirety of the leaves and stems.
Common Problems
In general, philodendrons are regarded as some of the easiest plants to grow, but it’s still possible to run into a few common growing problems. This is typically related to the plants receiving too much sun or water (or not enough), and most issues can be remedied with a few simple methods.
- Yellowed Leaves
If your philodendron’s leaves are turning yellow, there may be a few different causes that can be determined by the plant’s growing conditions. For example, an overwatered philodendron may develop yellow leaves due to root rot or oversaturated leaves. On the other hand, too much sun can also make the leaves begin to yellow. Move your plant to a shadier spot or cut back on waterings based on its needs.
- Brown Leaves
An underwatered philodendron may begin to turn brown on its leaves. In this case, increase your plant’s watering schedule, ensuring its pot still allows for plenty of drainage to prevent root rot from developing.
- Dark Leaf Spots or Edges
Leaf scorch is common in philodendron plants that are growing in areas with too much bright light. This appears as dark leaf spots or dark edges on the leaves. Move your plant to a shadier area, and check for any signs of fungal disease that can also lead to dark spots.
III. Uses and Benefits

Philodendron erubescens is versatile, serving both aesthetic and functional roles in indoor spaces. Its lush foliage and striking coloration make it an ideal plant for interior decoration, capable of enhancing the visual appeal of homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
Beyond its decorative value, Philodendron erubescens is also known for its air-purifying qualities, capable of filtering certain toxins (it is among the best plants for removing xylene and trichloroethylene), and improving indoor air quality. It is a popular choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and any area that could benefit from a touch of natural beauty and a cleaner air environment.