Philodendron 'Red Sun' – Compact Hybrid with Fiery Color Shifts
Philodendron 'Red Sun' is a striking self-heading hybrid known for its dramatic, color-changing foliage. New leaves emerge in bold red and orange shades, slowly fading into deep green as they mature. With a tidy, upright form and minimal care needs, this compact aroid is ideal for desks, shelves, or modern indoor displays. Its vibrant tones and compact footprint make it a standout for collectors and casual plant lovers alike.
Philodendron 'Red Sun' – Key Features

 
Color Progression: Foliage shifts from fiery red to orange and finally deep glossy green.
 
Self-Heading Structure: Grows upright without support—perfect for table displays or small spaces.
 
Low-Maintenance: Tolerates occasional missed waterings and adapts to various indoor environments.
 
Extended Color Retention: Vibrant new leaves retain their hue for weeks before maturing.
 
Safety Note: Mildly toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Growth Habit and Botanical Context
Part of the Philodendron erubescens group, 'Red Sun' originates from tropical South American stock and stays compact indoors. It grows to 50–80 cm tall and wide with short internodes and moderate speed. Unlike climbing types, it remains bushy and upright without a support structure.
Care Guide for Philodendron 'Red Sun'

 
Light: Place in bright, indirect light to support strong color contrast. Avoid full sun to prevent leaf scorch.
 
Watering: Let the top 2–3 cm of substrate dry out between waterings. Ensure drainage to prevent root issues.
 
Humidity: Tolerates standard indoor humidity but benefits from 50–60%. Consider grouping with other plants or using a humidifier.
 
Temperature: Maintain between 18–27 °C. Avoid temperatures below 15 °C and cold drafts.
 
Soil: Use a breathable mix of potting soil, coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark to keep roots healthy.
 
Fertilizing: Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted liquid fertilizer.
 
Repotting: Every 1–2 years or when visibly root-bound. Use pots with drainage holes.

Maintenance and Propagation

 
Propagation: Use stem cuttings with at least one node. Root in water, soil, or sphagnum moss under warm, stable humidity.
 
Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged foliage to maintain compact shape and health.
 
Leaf Care: Clean leaves gently with a damp cloth or dusting gloves to boost photosynthesis and keep colors vibrant.

Common Issues and Fixes

 
Pests: Treat spider mites and mealybugs early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
 
Yellow Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust soil and watering rhythm.
 
Brown Tips: Related to dry air or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity and check water quality.
 
Root Rot: Caused by soggy soil or standing water. Repot in a fast-draining mix and remove any mushy roots.

Etymology
“Philodendron” comes from Greek: *philo* (love) and *dendron* (tree), reflecting its natural habitat around forest trees. The cultivar name ‘Red Sun’ references the plant’s fiery young foliage that evokes glowing sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions

 
Can it grow in low light? Yes, but vivid colors may fade. For strong reds and oranges, provide bright indirect light.
 
What kind of pot works best? Use a breathable pot with drainage. Terracotta is a great option for moisture control.
 
How often should I fertilize? Every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Hold off in winter.

Order Philodendron 'Red Sun' Today
Brighten your indoor jungle with the fiery tones of Philodendron 'Red Sun'. Easy to grow, hard to ignore—this compact hybrid brings lasting color and lush foliage to any room. Order now from Foliage Factory and let this glowing beauty take center stage in your collection.