Philodendrons have become highly sought-after collector plants, prized for their diverse foliage colors, variegation, and shapes. The Strawberry Shake Philodendron exemplifies all three traits. Its stunning arrow-shaped leaves transition from rich red to cream and green variegation as they mature. This rare Philodendron, native to the rainforest floors of Colombia and Venezuela, is a natural hybrid of Philodendron erubescens. While its basic growing requirements are similar to other philodendrons, Strawberry Shake can be particular about light levels, losing its vivid coloration in insufficient light.
Best Locations For Growing Strawberry Shake Philodendron
Strawberry Shake makes an excellent tabletop or floor plant, showcasing its beauty when trained early on a moss pole or trellis. This plant needs high humidity, at least 60% for optimal growth. Ideal locations include bathrooms or kitchens with ample light, but dedicated indoor plant tents with grow lights are also effective for cultivating rarer tropical varieties.
This Philodendron requires bright indirect or filtered light. Low lighting causes Strawberry Shake to permanently lose its striking variegation and bright colors. By contrast, direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and should be avoided; placement in an east or west-facing window is ideal.
Strawberry Shake Philodendron Care
Use a peat-free potting mix enriched with orchid bark, perlite, or grit to ensure proper drainage and moisture retention. Maximizing humidity is crucial for this Philodendron; consider utilizing an indoor greenhouse tent with a humidifier running year-round to maintain humidity levels between 70-80%. Repot Strawberry Shake as needed, increasing pot size by only 1-2 inches in diameter at a time to support healthy growth.
Watering Strawberry Shake Philodendron
Ensure excellent drainage to keep your Strawberry Shake healthy. Allow only the top 1-2 inches of potting mix to dry between waterings. Empty saucers and cache pots promptly after watering to prevent root rot from standing water. In high humidity environments, adjust your watering schedule to prevent mildew and fungal issues.
Feeding Strawberry Shake Philodendron
As a moderately hungry plant, Strawberry Shake requires regular fertilization during the spring and summer growth period. Use a water-soluble or liquid all-purpose houseplant fertilizer, applying it monthly until September; then discontinue feeding in fall and winter.
Strawberry Shake Philodendron Information
Light Exposure: Bright Indirect Light
Mature Height: 3 – 4 Feet
Mature Spread: 2 Feet
Habit: Clumping
Flower Color(s): None
Foliage Color(s): Pink, Yellow, And Cream
Watering: When The Top 1-2 Inches Of Soil Feel Dry
