Philodendron tatei 'Congo Rojo'

Bring instant tropical impact to your space with Red Congo Philodendron—broad, glossy leaves and rich red stems that look premium in any interior. It stays upright and tidy without a support pole, thrives in bright indirect light, and forgives the occasional missed watering. A top choice for receptions, living rooms, and meeting areas where you want a confident, modern greenery statement.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Red Congo Philodendron
Botanical Name: Philodendron tatei 'Congo Rojo'
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Foliage houseplant (Aroid)
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0038
Alternative Names:
فيلو

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Alismatales
Family: Araceae
Genus: Philodendron

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the tropical rainforests of western Colombia and Ecuador.
Cultivated globally as an ornamental houseplant in tropical and subtropical regions.

4. Visual Characteristics

Features large, glossy, deep green leaves with a slightly lobed base; stems emerge a rich red color that intensifies with age. Upright, clumping habit without need for stakes; new growth unfurls with a vivid sheen.

5. Size & Dimensions

Indoors, typically reaches 60–90 cm (2–3 ft) in height and spreads 45–60 cm (1.5–2 ft); leaf blades up to 30 cm (12 in) long. Growth rate is moderate under optimal conditions.

6. Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light ideal; tolerates moderate light but will grow more slowly. Avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.

7. Watering Needs

Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 in) of soil feels dry. Maintain even moisture but allow slight drying between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining, aerated potting mix rich in organic matter (peat or coco coir) amended with perlite or orchid bark. Repot every 2 years or when root-bound.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature range 18–27 °C (65–80 °F). Sensitive to temperatures below 15 °C (60 °F). Prefers high humidity (60–80%); benefit from regular misting or a humidifier.

10. Fertilization

Feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) at half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Suspend feeding in fall and winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Low to moderate care level. Occasional dusting of leaves and pruning of yellowing foliage helps maintain appearance. Adjust watering and light seasonally.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagate via stem cuttings: cut below a node, remove lower leaves, and root in water or a moist potting mix. Roots develop in 2–4 weeks. Division at repotting also effective.

13. Common Problems

Yellowing leaves from overwatering; brown leaf tips from low humidity or salts build-up; susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale—inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.

14. Benefits & Uses

Striking ornamental foliage plant ideal for offices and living spaces; improves indoor air quality by filtering volatile organic compounds; adds a tropical, modern accent.

15. Toxicity & Safety

Contains insoluble calcium oxalates; toxic if ingested by pets or humans, causing oral irritation, drooling, and gastrointestinal upset. Keep out of reach of children and animals.