Overview
Philodendron erubescens is a climbing climber wall shrub in the genus Philodendron, part of the Araceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 2.5-4 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Philodendron erubescens grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include indoor ornamental.
About
Philodendron erubescens, the blushing philodendron or red-leaf philodendron, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae, native to Colombia. It is a robust evergreen climber growing to 3–6 m (10–20 ft), with red stems and heart-shaped leaves up to 40 cm (16 in) in length. The flowers are deep red, fragrant spathes up to 15 cm (6 in) long, in summer and autumn. It grows to around 2.5-4 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, carrying evergreen foliage. Grow it in partial shade and loam soil. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing and east-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Philodendron erubescens
About the genus
Philodendron is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae. As of September 2025, the Plants of the World Online accepted 625 species; other sources accept different numbers. Regardless of number of species, the genus is the second-largest member of the family Araceae, after genus Anthurium.
Wikipedia contributors, "Philodendron", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Philodendron
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Philodendron
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Philodendron erubescens size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Climber Wall Shrub, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Climbing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Indoor ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Philodendron erubescens
- Propagation
- Stem cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Philodendron erubescens?
Philodendron erubescens prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Philodendron erubescens need?
Philodendron erubescens grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Philodendron erubescens grow?
Philodendron erubescens reaches a height of 2.5-4 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Philodendron erubescens hardy in the UK?
Philodendron erubescens has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Philodendron erubescens?
Stem cuttings.