![](https://preprod.energumene.fr/1764-large_default/copy-of-philodendron-el-choco-red-l.jpg)
![](https://preprod.energumene.fr/1764-large_default/copy-of-philodendron-el-choco-red-l.jpg)
Another collectors' Philodendron! Close to Philodendron Verrucosum, with larger and thicker leaves, this one has the particularity to generate spectacular colors on the back of its leaves when they unfold (choco-red being a hint to the colors in question).
DESCRIPTION
Origin : Central and South-American rainforests, especially Ecuador...
Personality : Appreciates a little care.
Earmark : Big heart-shaped leaves with the texture of velvet and a chocolate-y color when they unfold.
Say something smart : This plant is a hemiepiphytica plant. Simply put, it starts its growth ON the trees and its roots slowly grow towards the ground (on the contrary to most plants, growing out from the ground).
CARE
Which container?
A planter usually looks nice, but we recommend not to plant your new baby directly in one.
Leave it in its current pot until Spring, then ideally transfer it into a terracota pot with little drain holes when it looks cramped.
Finding its place
Brightness : High level of brightness, as close as possible from a window but no direct sun.
Avoid letting it feel draughts near the windows and take it away from heating sources.
Humidity : 60 % or more.
Tip : Spray its leaves with water (ideally rain-water) once a week.
Tip 2 : Place some wet clay pebbles under the pot, so they keep diffusing humidity.
Temperature : Min : 17°C | Max : 28°C | Ideal : 20-22°C
Day-to-day care
Watering (purely indicative, depends on your local environment): once a week in Spring/Summer, and once every 10 days in Autumn and Winter.
Tip : Put your knuckle in the ground. If it feels totally dry, add some water to keep the soil wet (but not soaking it).
Fertilizer : Once every other week, from April to October