Philodendron Ring of Fire

🌿 Philodendron ‘Ring of Fire’ Care Guide

✨ Overview

Philodendron ‘Ring of Fire’ is a rare hybrid believed to be a cross between Philodendron wendlandii and Philodendron tortum.
It’s loved for its toothed, deeply serrated leaves with bright variegation — shades of green, cream, orange, red, and even pink.

This plant grows slowly but rewards patience with spectacular foliage when given warmth, light, and humidity.

☀️ Light

• Bright, indirect light is ideal.

• It can tolerate some gentle morning or late afternoon sun but avoid harsh midday rays.

• Too little light = dull variegation and slow growth.

• Too much light = scorched or bleached leaves.

💡 Tip: Place it near an east-facing window or several feet from a bright south or west window with filtered light.

🌡️ Temperature

• Thrives in 20–30°C (68–86°F)
  

• Keep away from air conditioners - consistent warmth is key for growth.

💧 Watering

• Water when the top 2–4 cm (1–1.5 in) of soil are dry.

• Soak the soil thoroughly, then let excess water drain out.

• Never leave the plant sitting in water — it’s sensitive to root rot.

• In winter or low light, water less frequently.

💧 Rule of thumb: Keep the soil slightly moist, not soggy — “moist but airy.”

🌫️ Humidity

• Loves high humidity (60–80%).

• If the air is dry, use a humidifier or pebble tray.

• You can also group it with other tropical plants to create a humid microclimate.

• Brown leaf tips usually mean the humidity is too low.

🌱 Soil

Use a well-draining, chunky aroid mix to mimic rainforest conditions.
Recommended blend:

• 40% coco coir or peat moss

• 30% orchid bark

• 20% perlite or pumice

• 10% charcoal or sphagnum moss

This ensures airflow to the roots while retaining just enough moisture.

🌾 Fertilizer

• Feed every 3–4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).

• Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.

• Stop or reduce feeding during fall and winter when growth slows.

💡 A slow-release fertilizer in early spring can also help maintain steady nutrition.

🪴 Repotting

• Repot every 1–2 years, or when roots start circling the pot.

• Choose a pot that’s only slightly larger than the current one, with excellent drainage.

• Best time: spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing.

🌘 Growth Habit & Support

• A slow-growing climbing philodendron.

• Provide a moss pole or totem for it to climb — this encourages larger, more colorful leaves.

• If left unsupported, it may grow more horizontally and smaller-leaved.