Red Hairy Philodendron

The red hairy philodendron is grown as much for its stems as its leaves. Every leaf stalk on Philodendron squamiferum is covered in soft red bristles, and the leaves above them are cut into five deep lobes rather than the plain hearts most philodendrons carry. Given a totem to climb it reaches about 1.5m tall and 1m across indoors, and it is far easier to keep alive than its collector reputation suggests.

Why you'll love it

• Stems you notice from across the room. The red bristled petioles are the point of difference, and they show best when the plant is lit from the side.
• Sculptural leaves. Mature leaves develop five lobes with an oak leaf outline, so a single plant reads as shape rather than a mass of green.
• Height without spread. It climbs. Given a support it goes up to 1.5m while keeping to a footprint around 1m wide.
• Undemanding for a rare aroid. Bright indirect light, a chunky mix and water when the surface dries is the whole routine.

Where it works best

Indoors. A bright room out of direct sun suits it anywhere in Australia. This is the position where the leaf lobes and stem colour develop properly.

Pots and containers. Plant it with a moss pole or timber totem from day one. The aerial roots grip the support, and the leaves get larger and more deeply cut as it climbs.

Feature planting. In tropical and subtropical gardens it can go outdoors in deep shade under a canopy, sheltered from wind and frost.

Growing red hairy philodendron in Australia

Position and climate. Bright indirect light, never harsh sun, which bleaches the leaves. It is frost tender, so outdoor planting is limited to tropical and subtropical gardens. In every other climate it is an indoor plant year round.

Soil. An open aroid mix of bark, perlite and a little coir holds air around the roots. Ordinary potting mix packs down and stays wet, which is the usual cause of failure.

Water and feed. Water when the top few centimetres feel dry, then let it drain fully. It appreciates humidity, so group it with other plants or keep it away from air conditioning. Feed monthly with a diluted liquid fertiliser through the warm months.

Pruning. Little is needed. Tie new growth to the totem as it extends, and cut back above a node if it gets leggy. The sap contains calcium oxalate, so wear gloves and wash your hands afterwards.

What to expect when it arrives

It is sold in one size, a 125mm pack of ten. These are young plants rather than a single finished specimen, which makes the pack the sensible choice for filling several pots, planting a shaded courtyard bed or setting up a green wall. Grown on with a totem each, they climb steadily through their first two warm seasons.

Plants travel upright and are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Expect a settling period of two to three weeks, then a new leaf every few weeks in warm weather. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Philodendron care guide
• Browse the indoor plant range
• Explore exotic and rare plants
• Indoor plant basics for beginners

Common questions

Is it safe around pets?

No. Like all philodendrons it is toxic if chewed, and the sap irritates mouths and skin. Keep it out of reach of cats, dogs and small children.

Does it have to climb?

It grows without support, but it sprawls and the leaves stay small and less lobed. A moss pole or timber totem gives you the upright habit and the mature leaf shape.

Do I need a humidifier?

Not in most Australian homes. It prefers humidity but tolerates ordinary indoor air, provided it is not sitting in the draught from an air conditioner or heater.

Why are the new leaves smaller than the old ones?

Usually light or root room. Move it closer to a window, check the mix has not compacted, and pot up once roots fill the container.