The Philodendron Imperial Red is known for its outstanding beauty and slow-growing habits. They are perfect for those looking to add a bold pop of color to any room with an easy-to-care-for house plant. Not only does it adjust to the light levels of almost any room, but the plant’s slow growth will keep it in pristine condition and look just as good as the actor in its later years. The Rojo Congo shares many characteristics with its parent plant, the Philodendron Imperial Red. Much like its parent, the Rojo Congo is renowned by plant lovers for its easygoing style and the vivid colors in its leaves. The bright green and red leaves provide a striking visual image that quickly makes it the vocal point of any room. The only question now is which philodendron best suits your taste: The more classic and elegant Philodendron Imperial Red or the brighter and bolder Rojo Congo?
Comparing Philodendron Imperial Red and Rojo Congo
Philodendron Imperial Red vs. Rojo Congo: Classification and Origin
The Philodendron Imperial Red and the Rojo Congo are direct relatives. Furthermore, they have a relationship in which the Rojo Congo stems directly from the Philodendron Imperial Red, making the Philodendron Imperial Red the parent plant of the Rojo Congo. There are about 400 species of philodendron, and the imperial red is a rare hybrid. Both plants originate from Southern America and South American rainforests. These two cultivated plants are similar in genetics and closely resemble one another to the point where they are often mistaken for each other. However, each plant is distinctive and unique, even with its similarities. For example, they are different in size, growth patterns, and leaves, petrioles, and flowers that each bloom.
Philodendron Imperial Red vs. Rojo Congo: Description
Philodendron Imperial Red has earned its name from its regal and outstanding features. They can be an aggressive climbing plants and grow 3-60 feet in height with narrow leaves that stem from strong petriole. However, due to the short nature of the petriole, the Philodendron Imperial Red cannot grow as fast and tall as its counterpart. The Philodendron Imperial Red has large, oval leaves with hues of bright red towards the end of the base and a black color towards the petriole of the plant. These colors contrast beautifully and give the plant an elegant yet striking appearance. The Rojo Congo, on the other hand, also receives its name due to the nature of its color. Rojo Congos are plants that grow up to 4 feet in height and are broader in size than the Philodendron Imperial Red. In addition, they have a fast and robust growth pattern thanks to their petriole. With a broad size and narrow leaves, it is not hard to see how the two plants are related. However, the leaves bright red and bold green colors give the plant a strikingly different appearance and appeal to its parent plant. The Rojo Congo, although the tougher of the two plants, has delicate leaves. The petriole of the Rojo Congo allows the plant to grow faster and wider, ensuring it has better access to water and nutrients. When mature, they have dark green leaves, and the petioles are purple-brown. The Philodendron Imperial Red blooms dark red and almost crimson hue flowers, whereas the Rojo Congo blooms bright orange flowers in season.
Philodendron Imperial Red vs. Rojo Congo: How To Grow
Growing Philodendron Imperial Red
The Philodendron Imperial Red has large leaves that allow it to adapt and grow in most conditions so long as it has adequate access to water and sunlight. To successfully propagate a Philodendron Imperial Red, you should:
Keep the plant in an area with shade that has access to bright yet indirect sunlight.The soil should be moist and well-drained, allowing the roots to take enough nutrients from the soil.The soil must get fertilized and watered every 10-14 days.The philodendron grows best in humid conditions. Consider misting it every month.
Growing Rojo Congo
The Rojo Congo comes front he same family as the Philodendron Imperial Red, and as such, it grows in similar conditions. To ensure that you propagate a healthy and strong Rojo Congo, you can do the following:
Water the plants every 7-10 days.Plant in moist and well-fertilized soil.Grows best in indirect yet bright sunlight.
The two plants are both Philodendrons, meaning they grow best in indirect sunlight, as the leaves will burn if placed in direct sunlight. The plants are also sensitive to temperature and wind change, so they should be kept away from drafts to avoid temperature fluctuations.
Philodendron Imperial Red vs. Rojo Congo: Uses
The Philodendron Imperial Red and Rojo Congo are great for landscaping. In addition, they both make excellent houseplants. Philodendron Rojo Congos are rare, making the plant a true gem for avid collectors.
Final Thoughts
Both plants are absolute must-haves for plant lovers looking for a relatively low-maintenance plant that will add “oomph” to any room it’s in! The Philodendron Imperial Red and the Rojo Congo are unique and striking in different ways. With brightly colored leaves and beautiful flowers when in season, these plants are fast becoming a top pick amongst plant collectors. They are the perfect accent pieces with their exotic origins and even more tropical appearances. The only question left to ask is if you want one plant or both.
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Yes. They are rare houseplants and are popular for having waxy green and red leaves. Is philodendron poisonous? Yes, philodendron is poisonous to humans and pets and can cause a burning tongue, lips, and throat. How big do Rojo Congo get? Rojo Congo can grow up to 3 feet tall.
