Common Name: Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’
Botanical Name: Thaumatophyllum stenolobum
You will LOVE the Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ with its heart-shaped leaves and glossy texture. Add some fun to your home décor with the rare Philodendron 'Choco Empress', a low-maintenance houseplant with grace and beauty! Your new plant buddy won't be picky about how much light it gets, so just bask in the glory of its wavy, long leaves and relax - it's all no-fuss, all-fun!
Light
Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ prefers bright indirect sunlight but can live in lower light conditions. When this plant receives less than 5 hours of indirect sunlight each day, its new leaves will emerge smaller, its vines will become leggy, and vibrant colors and variegation may fade! If your home doesn't have bright indirect sunlight, you can use artificial light as a supplement. We recommend LED grow lights turned on for 8-10 hours daily! Read more about indoor plant lighting needs!
Water
The soil of your Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ should be watered thoroughly after the soil is almost completely dry. It indicates that it needs water when the leaves start wilting. Water more often in the growing season and reduce the frequency during winter. It is best to refrain from watering if you cannot decide whether to add more. Water your Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ slowly, with room temperature water, and constantly drain any excess water from the pot..
Soil
Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ (and all philodendrons in general) love loose, nutrient-rich potting soil. Use a soil medium that can retain moisture but also allows for draining excess water to avoid root rot. Most pre-mixed soils will suffice. Make sure there is plenty of organic matter, like coco-coir, peat moss, or shredded leaves, and avoid soil containing moisture-retaining crystals. If your soil drains too quickly, we recommend repotting it into a compost-rich soil mixture with fewer drainage materials. Learn how to create your universal soil mixture for your indoor plants!
Temperature
Most household temperature ranges (65-80°F) are adequate for your Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’. Temperatures under 55℉ stunt their growth, and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can be fatal for this tropical indoor plant.
Humidity
Like most tropical indoor plants, Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ will benefit from higher humidity but will do fine in average household air. Higher humidity (over 50%) is always better for tropical houseplants like this one. Learn how to increase the humidity in the air around your indoor plants!
Fertilizer
A Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ plant will benefit significantly from regular fertilizing because it is a fast-growing houseplant! Use a weak solution (diluted to ¼ the recommended strength) of a complete liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks throughout the growing season. Do not fertilize during the winter months. Sometimes this indoor plant will grow all year long. If this is the case, fertilize it during apparent foliage growth with a ¼-strength diluted liquid fertilizer, or top dress the soil with worm castings or rich compost. Learn more about how to fertilize your indoor plants.
Growth Rate
Philodendron ‘Choco Empress plants' mature height is usually around 2 to 4 feet! Keep in mind that this plants height can vary depending on factors such as its growing conditions, the care it provided, and these specific plants genetics.
Pet Friend or Foe
A Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ plant is considered toxic to pets! Foe!
Pro Tips
- To increase the humidity levels for your Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ plant, you can mist the leaves often or put a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles by the plant.
- Regularly prune your plant! You should trim back any leggy growth or damaged leaves to help with a bushier and more attractive plant shape.
- You can propagate this plant through stem cuttings.