Philodendron ‘Dark Lord’

Origin of Philodendron ‘Dark Lord’

Where ‘Dark Lord’ was first developed remains unknown. It is a cultivated Philodendron and exists only in cultivation.

Care for Philodendron ‘Dark Lord’

• Light: Keep the plant in bright indirect light so the climbing growth stays compact. Protect the dark leaves from hot direct sun through glass.
• Water: Wait until the upper part of the mix has dried, then water thoroughly. If the pot still feels heavy and cool, wait a little longer.
• Support: Train the vine up a pole or board and attach the stem loosely. A stable support helps later leaves develop without the plant sprawling under their weight.
• Potting mix: Choose a coarse, airy aroid mix that drains freely while still holding some moisture. Replace old mix if it starts staying wet for unusually long periods.
• Humidity and feeding: Keep warm conditions with moderate humidity and airflow, and feed lightly while the plant is growing.

Problems and solutions for Dark Lord

• A new leaf opens copper or red: This colour change is normal for ‘Dark Lord’. Wait until the leaf has fully matured before judging its final colour.
• Brown or bleached patches appear on the darkest leaves: Strong direct sun or heat against glass can scorch them. Move the plant into bright indirect light.
• The vine stretches and new leaves become smaller: It may need more light or better support. Increase indirect light and secure the stem to a vertical support.
• Leaves yellow while the pot stays wet: Water less often and improve drainage. If the plant keeps declining, inspect the roots and cut away only roots that are clearly rotten before repotting.

Philodendron erubescens ‘Dark Lord’ is toxic to people and pets

• Keep this plant away from children, cats and dogs.
• Its leaves and stems contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate the mouth, throat, skin and eyes.
• Chewing may cause burning pain, drooling, swelling, vomiting or difficulty swallowing. Contact a veterinarian or medical professional after exposure, especially if swelling or breathing problems occur.

Philodendron erubescens: name and meaning

Philodendron combines Greek philein, meaning “to love,” with dendron, meaning “tree.” Erubescens is Latin for reddening or blushing.

Heinrich Wilhelm Schott established the genus Philodendron in 1829 in Wiener Zeitschrift für Kunst, Literatur, Theater und Mode, volume 3, page 780.

Karl Heinrich Emil Koch and Augustin first described Philodendron erubescens in 1855 in Index Seminum of the Berlin Botanic Garden, volume 1854, issue appendix, page 6.