Verrucosum El Choco Red Information on Philodendron: Care, Growth, and Identification Guide

The Philodendron Verrucosum El Choco Red is a standout plant that catches the eye with its large, velvety green leaves and deep red undersides. This unique Philodendron is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, making it both exotic and desirable for collectors and indoor gardeners.

The striking color contrast and soft leaf texture add a touch of tropical luxury to any plant collection.

When I first learned about the Verrucosum El Choco Red, I was most impressed by its easy-to-spot features and the care it requires. It climbs as it grows and needs a totem or support to reach its full leafy potential, which makes caring for it both interesting and rewarding.

You’ll find that it prefers bright, indirect light and higher humidity, which helps the leaves stay healthy and vibrant. For more on its origins and care tips, visit this overview of the Philodendron Verrucosum El Choco Red.

I enjoy growing this plant because each new leaf is a pleasant surprise, with the red coloring shining through as it unfurls. Its place on my shelf not only brightens the space but also makes for a great talking point with visitors who admire rare houseplants.

Verrucosum El Choco Red Overview

The Philodendron Verrucosum El Choco Red is a tropical climbing plant known for its deep green velvet leaves and striking red undersides. I find its unique history and special care needs make it a favorite among collectors and indoor gardeners.

Origin and Discovery

I learned that the Verrucosum El Choco Red comes from the rainforests of Colombia and Ecuador. It is especially associated with the Chocó region.

This area is known for high humidity and frequent rainfall, creating ideal conditions for tropical plants to thrive. The plant was discovered by botanists exploring dense jungle environments.

Its vibrant colors and stunning leaf textures quickly caught the attention of plant lovers. As the demand for rare houseplants grew, the El Choco Red variety became more widely available through specialty growers.

Botanical Characteristics

The El Choco Red variety is best known for its heart-shaped leaves. When new, the leaves are deep green with a velvety texture.

As they mature, the undersides display a bright red color that sets them apart from many other philodendrons. The intense color tends to fade somewhat with age as leaves harden.

I also notice that the stems, called petioles, are textured and covered with small white scales known as trichomes. The plant is a climber and does best when allowed to grow up a moss pole or other support.

It is an aroid, which means it belongs to the same family as many other popular houseplants. To thrive, Philodendron El Choco Red prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil.

Too much sun can scorch its leaves, while dry air may cause browning.

Distinctive Features

What makes this plant stand out to me is its combination of unique features, especially the contrasting colors and textures. The velvet-like upper leaf surface is soft to the touch, while the red undersides and patterned veins create visual interest.

Unlike standard philodendrons, the El Choco Red’s petioles have white scales, adding an extra layer of detail. I also note that it does not have hairy stems, which sets it apart from similar varieties.

The leaves are large but not overly thick, making them look delicate yet bold. These attributes, along with its origin, make the Verrucosum El Choco Red highly sought after in the world of rare tropical plants.

Cultivation Requirements

I focus on meeting specific care guidelines to help my Philodendron Verrucosum ‘El Choco Red’ thrive. Light, soil, temperature, humidity, and watering all play important roles in this plant’s health and growth.

Light and Placement

I always keep my El Choco Red in a spot with bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn its leaves, so I avoid placing it near windows that get intense sun all day.

Early morning or late evening sun is fine if filtered through curtains. A location near a north or east-facing window works well.

When light is too low, the plant grows slower, and the leaves become smaller and less vibrant. High humidity near the light source also improves leaf health.

If I use artificial lights, I select grow lights and position them about 12-24 inches above the plant for 12-14 hours daily. This setup mimics its natural habitat and supports healthy, lush growth.

For more specific recommendations, I refer to this detailed light guide.

Soil Composition

The right soil mix helps prevent root rot and encourages strong root systems. I use a chunky, well-draining mix made up of the following:

• Orchid bark (provides aeration)
• Perlite (improves drainage)
• Coco coir or peat moss (retains some moisture)
• Small amount of activated charcoal (filters and freshens the mix)

I avoid heavy garden soils or basic potting mix that hold too much water. I always make sure the pot has proper drainage holes.

This soil balance helps roots breathe and reduces the risk of fungal issues or pests. Having consistent airflow to the roots is necessary.

I occasionally fluff or remake the soil every couple of years to maintain good structure. A well-aerated mix promotes larger, healthier leaves.

Temperature and Humidity

This Philodendron prefers warm and humid conditions. I keep the temperature between 18°C to 26°C (about 65°F to 79°F).

Sudden drops below 15°C (59°F) can shock the plant and slow its growth. Humidity is just as important.

I aim for at least 60% relative humidity, though 70-80% is ideal. Lower humidity can cause the leaf edges to brown, while higher humidity helps the leaves stay soft and vibrant.

To maintain these conditions, I use a humidifier, regular misting, or place the plant on a pebble tray with water. Keeping El Choco Red away from cold drafts and direct air conditioning helps avoid temperature stress.

The plant stays healthiest in stable, warm environments as highlighted in this care guide.

Watering Guidelines

Watering needs depend on temperature, light, and humidity. I water when the top inch of soil feels dry but don’t let the roots sit in water.

Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot, so I empty the saucer if water collects underneath. I use rainwater or filtered water, as this plant is sensitive to salts found in tap water.

During warm months, I check moisture every few days; in winter, watering frequency drops as growth slows. I notice the leaves will droop slightly when the plant is thirsty, which helps me adjust my routine.

Sticking to a careful watering schedule keeps foliage lush and roots healthy. I review more details on proper watering from this practical guide.

Care and Maintenance

I pay attention to three main areas when caring for my Philodendron Verrucosum El Choco Red: feeding, pruning and propagation, plus watching for pests and diseases. Each of these has its own steps and timing that help keep the plant healthy.

Fertilization Techniques

I use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the active growing season, which is usually spring through early fall. Feeding my plant about once a month keeps its leaves vibrant and supports healthy growth.

It’s important not to overfeed, as too much fertilizer can damage the roots and lead to yellow leaves. My Philodendron prefers soil that stays moist but not soggy.

I always check the soil before feeding. If it’s already wet, I wait a few days before applying fertilizer to avoid root rot.

I dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength for best results.

A table helps remind me of my routine:

Pruning and Propagation

I prune my plant to remove dead or damaged leaves. This not only keeps it looking neat but also encourages new, healthy growth.

I use clean, sharp scissors to cut just above a node or leaf joint. I avoid cutting too much at once, as the plant uses its leaves to gather energy.

For propagation, I cut a stem section with at least one node and a healthy leaf. I let the cut end air-dry for about an hour before placing it in water or moist soil.

After a few weeks, roots typically develop. Once roots are a few inches long, I transfer the cutting to its pot.

A list of my steps:

• Trim dead or yellow leaves as needed
• Make clean cuts just above a node
• Air-dry stems before rooting
• Use clean tools to prevent disease

Pest and Disease Management

I inspect my Philodendron regularly for common pests like spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. I look for sticky residue, webbing, or small insects along leaf veins and stems.

If I spot pests, I wipe the leaves with a damp cloth and use insecticidal soap if needed. Maintaining high humidity and good air flow helps prevent most fungal problems.

If I see spots or mold on the leaves, I cut off affected areas right away. I avoid overhead watering, as wet leaves are more likely to develop rot.

For more details on keeping my Philodendron healthy, I follow expert tips such as those found in this care guide.

Decorative and Collecting Value

Philodendron verrucosum ‘El Choco Red’ combines unique foliage with collectible appeal. I find that its unusual colors and textures make it desirable for both decor and rare plant collections.

Interior Design Applications

When I add ‘El Choco Red’ to a room, its large, velvety leaves draw attention right away. The top of each leaf is a deep green, while the underside features a vivid reddish-purple shade.

This bold color contrast stands out in bright or neutral interiors, making the plant a popular choice for living rooms or office spaces. The leaf texture, which feels soft and almost like fabric, adds another layer of visual interest.

I can use ‘El Choco Red’ as a statement piece on shelves or tables, or group it with other tropical plants for a lush, layered look. Since the plant thrives in medium to bright, indirect light, I find it easy to place in most indoor settings.

It grows best in humid environments, so I often recommend it for bathrooms or sunrooms as well. A decorative pot in a matte or glossy finish will highlight the plant’s rich leaf color.

Design tips:

• Highlight leaf undersides: Place on a higher shelf so the red is visible.
• Mix textures: Combine with plants that have smooth or shiny leaves for contrast.
• Use ceramic pots: Pick colors that complement the red or green in the leaves.

Rarity and Demand

‘El Choco Red’ is valued among collectors for its striking appearance and limited availability. I often notice that philodendron enthusiasts look for this plant due to its distinct bright red cataphylls and leaf undersides, which separate it from other philodendrons like verrucosum.

The species is not as commonly available as more standard philodendrons, which increases its desirability. Shops often list this plant among their rare and premium options, and there are frequent waiting lists or higher prices attached to well-grown specimens (Grow Tropicals).

In my experience, the steady demand comes from both houseplant beginners and experienced collectors. The unique combination of velvet-like leaves and red coloring adds to its appeal.

On plant forums and specialty retailers, this philodendron is mentioned often for its collectibility and decorative impact.

Key factors affecting rarity:

• Slow growth rate: Makes large or mature plants harder to find.
• Propagation challenges: Can be more difficult to grow in quantity.
• Import restrictions: May limit availability in certain countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

I have put together answers about caring for Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’, its appearance, ideal growing conditions, differences from other philodendron species, and its growth habits. These points are based on both expert care guidelines and my own experience.

How do you care for a Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’?

I keep my Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ in bright, indirect light and water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. I use a well-draining, airy potting mix to prevent root rot.

If the air in my home is dry, I increase humidity with a humidifier or pebble tray. I also repot every two to three years for healthy roots, as suggested in this care guide.

What are the distinct differences between Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ and Philodendron ‘Gloriosum’?

I notice that ‘El Choco Red’ has deep green, velvety leaves with a red underside, while ‘Gloriosum’ usually has pale veins on its matte, dark green leaves. ‘El Choco Red’ is typically a climbing plant, but ‘Gloriosum’ grows by crawling along the soil.

Is the Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ a climbing or crawling plant?

From my experience and research, Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ is a climbing plant. It does best when given a moss pole or a support to encourage vertical growth.

Without support, it tends to stretch and produce fewer leaves.

What is the scientific name of the Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’?

The scientific name most often used for Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ is Philodendron rubrijuvenile. Some sellers or enthusiasts may refer to it simply as Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’.

How does the Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ appear when it reaches maturity?

As it matures, my Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’ develops larger, heart-shaped leaves with a deep green color and a velvet texture. The undersides of the leaves keep their reddish tint.

New leaves often come in bright red before turning green as they age.

What conditions are ideal for the growth of Philodendron ‘El Choco Red’?

I find that warm temperatures between 65 and 80°F (18-27°C), high humidity, and indirect light are best. The plant thrives in a loose, chunky soil mix and appreciates regular misting or humidity above 60%.

Using these conditions, the plant grows healthy and vibrant. For a detailed care guide, I use resources like this comprehensive overview.