Red Bristle Philodendron

Red Bristle Philodendron Care

Philodendron squamiferum

What is the plant

Red bristle is one of the most unusually stemmed philodendron available. Stems begin with yellow and red and change to deep green with a red hairy texture. Squamiferum is a fast-growing philodendron ideal for any shady location in the home or office.

Philodendron squamiferum is a terrific, rare species from tropical rain forests in South America. The vine is unusual for its long, red stems that are covered with soft, fuzzy red hairs. The plant also has distinctively-shaped leaves with 5 lobes. The attractive foliage is glossy and grows from 12 to 18 inches long. The plant lives as an epiphyte in the wild, growing high up into trees. In cultivation it grows at a moderate pace, so it won't become rampant and take over, like some Philodendrons. You may tie it to a wooden post, trellis, or other support. The leaves of young plants are shaped somewhat like a violin, and eventually form large, distinct lobes as the plant matures. The bristly stem of each leaf is almost as long as the leaf itself. The hairs are green on some plants, but on mine they are red.

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

18°C - 24°C

Hardiness zone

min 10b

Difficulty

Hard

Hibernation

Cold Period

Toxicity

Poisonous

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Over about 40% humidity is recommended. Water more frequently during warmer months. Generally, the plant will droop to show that it needs more water. Do not overwater or keep the soil wet for too long, as this will encourage root rot. If leaves are yellowing due to overwatering, skip a week or two of watering.
Fertilizer
To help establish your new Squamiferum Red Bristle Philodendron, fertilize sparingly at least 6 inches away from the base, tri-annually with a slow time released product. Unfertilized they will tend to grow very slowly.
Sunlight
This Philodendron requires 70-85% sunlight. Depending on your location filtered sun is best.

Disease diagnosis

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Soil
Like most Philodendrons, it likes a loose, fertile soil mix. A typical mix is equal parts of potting soil, fine orchid bark, and perlite, pumice, or coarse sand.
Temperature
Inside, it grows well at the temperatures between 18°C-30°C. It’s best not to let it go below 15°C.
Container
Choose any type of container with enough drainage holes.