Philodendron erubescens 'New Red'

Philodendron erubescens 'New Red' – Vibrant Climber with Red Stems and Leaf Undersides

Philodendron erubescens 'New Red' is a recent cultivar selected for its striking red coloration. Like its close relative Philodendron ‘Red Emerald’, this scandent climber produces deep red petioles and stems, but ‘New Red’ is distinguished by its red-tinted leaf undersides. Juvenile foliage emerges in a dramatic dark red before maturing into deep green, giving this plant a constantly shifting display.

Distinctive features of 'New Red'

• Colour shift: new leaves emerge dark red, turning green with age while keeping red undersides.
• Stems and petioles: strong red tones, flattened adaxially toward the apex, terete below.
• Leaf blades: elongate, ovate-triangular, sagittate in shape with herbaceous texture.
• Growth habit: scandent and vigorous, quickly climbing when given vertical support.

Background and breeding

This cultivar was developed as a modern selection of Philodendron erubescens, a species native to Colombia. While ‘Red Emerald’ popularised the group, ‘New Red’ offers an updated form with stronger pigmentation and ornamental appeal, especially in the contrasting leaf undersides.

How to care for Philodendron erubescens 'New Red'

• Light: bright, indirect light enhances red pigmentation; avoid harsh direct sun.
• Temperature: grows best at 20 – 28 °C; avoid long exposure below 16 °C.
• Humidity: 60 – 80% is ideal; stable conditions keep foliage lush.
• Watering: water when the top 2 – 3 cm of substrate dry slightly; avoid soggy soil.
• Substrate: well-aerated aroid mix with bark, perlite, and coco coir for drainage.
• Feeding: light, regular fertilisation during active growth supports strong climbing.
• Support: provide a moss pole or trellis to allow upright growth and larger leaves.

Challenges and solutions

• Pale or faded colour: often linked to low light or nutrient deficiency.
• Yellowing leaves: usually a sign of overwatering or compacted soil.
• Leggy growth: insufficient light; move to a brighter filtered spot.
• Pests: check regularly for mites or thrips, particularly on tender new leaves.

Notes for collectors

• Comparison: differs from ‘Red Emerald’ by consistently showing red undersides.
• Visual impact: offers year-round colour contrast even after leaves mature.
• Rarity: newer to cultivation, still less common than older red philodendron hybrids.
• Toxicity: philodendrons contain calcium oxalate; keep out of reach of pets and children.

Etymology

Genus:Philodendron (Schott, 1830), from Greek philo- “loving” + dendron “tree,” referencing its climbing nature.Cultivar name: ‘New Red’ highlights the enhanced red tones in petioles, stems, and leaf undersides.

Propagation and growth potential

• Propagation: stem cuttings with 1 – 2 nodes root readily under warm, humid conditions.
• Medium: sphagnum moss or an airy aroid substrate supports healthy rooting.
• Size indoors: typically 1 – 2 m with support; leaves enlarge significantly with age.

Why Philodendron erubescens 'New Red' is worth collecting

With its bold red stems, vibrant undersides, and rapid growth, Philodendron erubescens 'New Red' is a striking addition to any indoor collection. It combines ease of care with a constantly changing foliage display, making it a standout climbing philodendron for collectors and enthusiasts alike.