Troubleshooting
Philodendron El Choco Red problems — and how to fix them
Philodendron El Choco Red (Philodendron rubrijuvenile 'El Choco Red') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Fading red undersides
The juvenile red coloration washes out in low light. Move it to bright indirect light (without direct sun) to keep the colour rich.
Crispy leaf edges / tips
Usually low humidity or dry air. Raise humidity to 60%+ with a humidifier or pebble tray and keep it away from heating/AC vents.
Yellowing lower leaves
Most often overwatering or cold, soggy substrate. Let the top few inches dry between waterings and ensure the pot drains freely.
Root rot
Caused by waterlogged mix and poor drainage. Use a chunky aroid mix, a pot with drainage holes, and never leave it sitting in water.
Small new leaves / no growth
Signals weak roots or no climbing support. Give it a moss pole for aerial roots to grip, plus warmth, humidity, and growing-season feeding.
Sap-sucking pests
Watch for thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and fungus gnats. Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap and isolate the plant until clear.
Prevent philodendron el choco red problems before they start
Most philodendron el choco red issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Philodendron El Choco Red problems — FAQ
Why is my philodendron el choco red fading red undersides?
The juvenile red coloration washes out in low light. Move it to bright indirect light (without direct sun) to keep the colour rich.
Why is my philodendron el choco red crispy leaf edges / tips?
Usually low humidity or dry air. Raise humidity to 60%+ with a humidifier or pebble tray and keep it away from heating/AC vents.
Why is my philodendron el choco red yellowing lower leaves?
Most often overwatering or cold, soggy substrate. Let the top few inches dry between waterings and ensure the pot drains freely.
Why is my philodendron el choco red root rot?
Caused by waterlogged mix and poor drainage. Use a chunky aroid mix, a pot with drainage holes, and never leave it sitting in water.
Why is my philodendron el choco red small new leaves / no growth?
Signals weak roots or no climbing support. Give it a moss pole for aerial roots to grip, plus warmth, humidity, and growing-season feeding.
Why is my philodendron el choco red sap-sucking pests?
Watch for thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and fungus gnats. Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap and isolate the plant until clear.