Anderson's Red Philodendron
Philodendron 'Anderson's Red'
Anderson's Red
About this plant
Philodendron 'Anderson's Red' is a popular houseplant known for its attractive, heart-shaped leaves with a rich red tint. It is a climbing or trailing plant that adds a splash of color to indoor spaces. This plant is appreciated for its easy care and ability to thrive in lower light conditions, making it a favorite among indoor gardeners.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Philodendron
- Family
- Araceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Alismatales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Hybrid cultivar, derived from tropical American species
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated indoors worldwide, especially in homes and offices.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 15 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix
Watering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
This plant is quite tough and easy to care for. It prefers moderate indirect light and regular watering but can tolerate some neglect. Watch out for overwatering, which can cause root rot. Overall, it needs low maintenance and is suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Glossy, heart-shaped leaves with red hues; climbing or trailing growth habit.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion can cause irritation and swelling of mouth and throat. Keep away from children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Philodendron 'Anderson's Red' may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive people due to its sap. Avoid touching the sap and wash hands if contact occurs. Keep away from children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion, which can cause discomfort.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Too little light may cause leggy growth and dull leaf color. Pests like spider mites or mealybugs can occasionally appear.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive foliage and easy care.
Notes
Prune occasionally to control size and encourage bushier growth. Repot every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.