Philodendron Ring of Fire
Philodendron Ring of Fire
Philodendron 'Ring of Fire'
❦ ❧ ❦
Difficulty — IntermediateA plant that seems to change costume with every leaf — new growth emerges a smoldering red-burgundy, then matures into a wild patchwork of cream, chartreuse, and pink flecks across long, deeply lobed leaves. No two leaves quite match, which is precisely the point. A genuine showpiece for a grower ready for a little more color chaos on the shelf.
Notes on Cultivation
☀Light
Bright, indirect light is essential to develop and hold her full riot of color — in dim conditions her patchwork fades toward plain green. Keep her from harsh direct sun, which scorches her variegated tissue.
❦Water
Let the top inch or two of soil dry between waterings. She dislikes sitting wet, so err toward underwatering rather than over.
☁Humidity
She grows fuller and more vividly colored with humidity above average — 50 percent or more is a good target, though she tolerates ordinary household air reasonably well.
✵Temperature
Keep her between 65 and 85 Fahrenheit, sheltered from anything below 60. Cold drafts show up quickly as stalled, dull growth.
❧Soil
A chunky, well-draining aroid mix of bark, perlite, and potting soil suits her roots well. Sharp drainage is essential to keep her healthy.
❀Fertilizing
A light, balanced feed monthly through the growing season supports her vigorous, colorful new growth. Ease off once growth slows for the year.
✿Propagation
Stem cuttings taken below a node root well in a clear cup of moist Fluval Stratum, generally within a few weeks. Read the full field method.
Field Observations
Her leaves grow more deeply lobed and serrated with maturity, so a young plant's simpler leaves are no indication of what is to come. The exact color pattern on each leaf is genuinely random, a trait of her hybrid parentage, so every specimen is a little different.
She is toxic if chewed, like the rest of the philodendron family, so keep her out of reach of pets and small children.
— faithfully recorded by Mr. Phileas Plant
✿Have one of these at home?
Mr. Phileas now travels in coat pockets — both kinds, as of August. The Plantry app identifies your plants from a photo, keeps care notes like these with you, and lets you ask him anything — free, on iPhone and Android. Step into the greenhouse →
