Philodendron Verrucosum 'Rude'

A locale-selected clone of Philodendron verrucosum — the velvety-leaved climber from the cloud forests of Central and South America. It carries the signature verrucosum traits: large, heart-shaped, deeply velvety dark green leaves with contrasting pale venation and the characteristic bristled, hairy petioles, with a red-flushed underside. A climber that develops larger, fuller leaves with vertical support.

• Light: Bright indirect light for the deepest velvet coloration; avoid direct sun which bleaches and damages the velvet surface.

• Soil: Chunky, well-draining aroid mix of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir; moisture-retentive but never waterlogged — excellent drainage essential.

• Temperature/Humidity: Cool to warm temperatures between 60-80°F; high humidity of 70-80% is essential — one of the more humidity-demanding philodendrons, with edge browning the first sign of dry air.

• Watering: Allow the top inch of medium to approach dryness between waterings; keep consistently moist but never soggy. Never waterlog.

• Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks during active growth; supplement with calcium and magnesium for best leaf quality. Reduce in winter.