Syngonium podophyllum 'Regina Red' – bold pink tones and compact growth

Syngonium podophyllum 'Regina Red' is an eye-catching cultivar with vivid, reddish-pink leaves that glow from the center outwards. The arrow-shaped foliage often starts as soft blush pink with a translucent texture and darkens slightly as it matures, developing deeper coral tones along the veins. The contrast between the pink midrib and subtle green margins creates a striking visual effect that makes 'Regina Red' stand out even among other colorful Syngoniums. It stays compact and bushy, making it ideal for shelves, desktops, or plant stands where it can grow upright or trail gently over time.
Foliage color and visual features
 
Leaf tone: Bright pink to reddish-coral with light green edging
 
Shape: Classic Syngonium arrowhead form
 
Growth form: Bushy and compact, can trail or climb
 
Leaf texture: Smooth and semi-translucent when young
 
Height indoors: 30–50 cm tall without support
Species origin and cultivation context
This cultivar originates from Syngonium podophyllum, a species native to tropical forests in Central and South America. 'Regina Red' was selected and stabilized in cultivation for its intense leaf pigmentation and compact growth. In nature, Syngonium begins as a terrestrial creeper before climbing trees in humid understories with dappled light. Indoors, 'Regina Red' stays smaller than many other Syngoniums but still produces vibrant foliage with minimal care. Like all Syngoniums, it contains calcium oxalate and is considered toxic if ingested.
 
Native habitat: Central and South American rainforest
 
Cultivar background: Horticultural selection
 
Climate preference: Humid, semi-shaded environments
 
Growth speed: Moderate
 
Toxicity: Yes – toxic to pets and humans
Syngonium podophyllum 'Regina Red' care guide
 
Light: Bright, indirect light keeps the pink tones vibrant. Too little light can make new growth greener.
 
Water: Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil are dry. Avoid soggy roots or bone-dry conditions.
 
Humidity: Enjoys 50–70% humidity. Leaf edges may brown in very dry air.
 
Temperature: Best kept between 18–28 °C. Avoid cold drafts or dry heat sources.
 
Soil: Use a well-aerated mix with bark, coco coir, and perlite.
 
Repotting: Every 1–2 years or when rootbound. Choose a container with good drainage.
 
Fertilizing: Feed monthly with a gentle, balanced liquid fertilizer.
 
Propagation: Simple via stem cuttings. Roots form easily in water, moss, or substrate.
 
Hydroponics: Transitions well to semi-hydro with proper humidity and lighting.
 
Pruning: Trim for shape or to encourage branching. Remove older leaves as needed.
Typical problems and solutions
 
Green new leaves: Caused by low light or overfeeding. Move to a brighter spot and reduce nitrogen.
 
Yellowing leaves: Usually from overwatering. Let soil dry more between waterings.
 
Dry tips: Often due to low humidity. Try grouping with other plants or using a humidifier.
 
Spider mites: Wipe leaves regularly and increase humidity. Treat early with neem oil.
 
Root rot: Prevent by using airy mix and pots with drainage holes.
Extra care tips and display ideas
'Regina Red' grows well as a tabletop centerpiece or in a hanging planter, where its blush-toned leaves trail softly over time. It benefits from occasional rotation to promote even growth. To help it thrive, take cues from its natural rainforest environment: filtered light, warm temperatures, and steady humidity. Recreating these conditions indoors keeps its color vibrant and form compact.
Etymology and cultivar context
“Syngonium” refers to its fused reproductive structures (from Greek “syn” and “gonium”), and “podophyllum” means “foot-shaped leaf.” 'Regina Red' is a horticultural name referencing the regal pink-red coloration of its foliage. It’s a non-registered cultivar that’s been popularized through ornamental plant trade and collectors.
FAQs about Syngonium podophyllum 'Regina Red'
 
Can I grow this plant in low light?It will survive, but vibrant pinks fade. Brighter indirect light keeps the color strong.
 
Does it climb or trail?It can do both. Give it a pole to climb or let it cascade naturally.
 
Is it fast growing?Moderate. It puts out new leaves regularly if conditions are stable and warm.
Buy Syngonium podophyllum 'Regina Red' today
Looking for pink foliage that doesn’t demand much? Syngonium podophyllum 'Regina Red' adds bold color with easy care. Order now while it's still available.