Philodendron Ring of Fire Plant, Grow & Care Guide 2022

Vigorous, adaptive, and with attractive, beautiful leaves, the Philodendron Ring of Fire is a very rare, and esteemed plant type which can become the most exotic piece of your home or office.

As the name suggests, ‘Ring of Fire’, the species has got its high value due to its variety in its color. One can expect five different colors from this plant, throughout the year, including the vibrant pinks, reds, and oranges to greens and whites. 

This beautiful plant demands a little patient attitude from its owner which helps in its nourishment and growth. Here we will further talk about this elegant species mentioning its remarkable features, its requirements for healthy growth, and much more.

Origin and Classification

The Philodendron Ring of Fire is considered as an ultra-rare species of the general philodendron plant, being a hybrid between the Philodendron Wendlandii and the Philodendron Tortum (Polypodioides). This species was initially known as the ‘Henderson’s Pride’ after Keith Henderson, its breeder, but later changed its name to the current, ‘Ring of Fire’.

Features of Philodendron Ring of Fire

The Philodendron Ring of Fire is a moderately gentle grower, but when it matures, its beauty peaks up, mesmerizing everyone. It usually prefers to be kept in partially shaded areas where it can climb walls progressively, and display its attractive charm to the viewers.

This appealing plant might seem to be a little costly but its positive energy and exotic features significantly make up for it.

Flowers and Leaves

The Philodendron Ring of Fire is widely known for its various colored leaves. The excellent combination of its range in colors from white to creamy, from light to dark green to engine brick red, gives it an appealing personality, fascinating to the eyes.

Since the unique species is famous for its leaves, there isn’t much knowledge regarding its blooms. It is said that this species has no flowers generally, but some artificial varieties may bloom in their growing seasons.

Tolerance and Resistance

Even though it is mentioned that the Philodendron Ring of Fire requires a partially shaded area for its healthy development, sometimes, if the light gets too dim or dark, the plant might not tolerate its absence and hence, might show some symptoms such as leggy and bent growth towards the brighter region.

Since the roots of the plant are well spread into the soil, they have a firm hold on the ground. This helped them resist the winds and stand up straight.

Height and Growth

As it has been mentioned earlier, the Philodendron Ring of Fire is a slow grower, however as it develops, it reaches up to 3.3 feet (i.e., 1 meter). They are climbers; hence, they give a great look hanging from pots and baskets or climbing walls and trees. It should be noted that their height and growth, particularly, are dependent on the environment they are surviving in.

Maintenance and Durability

The Philodendron Ring of Fire does not demand much effort for its maintenance, however, the little care it wants should be offered to it, for desired results.

Providing it with its required temperature, humidity, and space will make up the plant to be healthier and more durable throughout. Its soil conditions, sunlight, and pests should be taken care of.

Basic Care of Philodendron Splendid

There are some basic care routines, one should have in mind for efficient growth and health of the plant. People usually neglect what the plant requires of them, and thus, end up damaging the plant, unintentionally. If the right amount of care is given to the plant, not only would it survive but enlighten the people with its positive energy.

Light and Watering

Ideally, the plant is supposed to be in a semi-shaded area where it is not exposed to direct sun rays causing harm to the plant. On the other hand, too much dark area is also not preferred as it also might lead to abnormal growth of the plant.

When watering the plant, one should be mindful of the plant’s nature and avoid over-flooding it. The ideal soil is 30% to 60% humid in which the plant can easily take up nutrients. Due to the plant’s tropical nature, watering it a few times a month is sufficient for its healthy growth. Minor delays in watering also don’t cause damage to the plant overall.

Soil and Repotting

The soil’s nature is to be kept in mind when maintaining the quality of the plant. If the soil is extra wet and muddy, it can lead to root rot. Access water also blocks the passing of air through the soil; hence it should be avoided. Similarly, very dry, sandy-type soil should also be avoided as it can also negatively impact the plant’s development.

If one is thinking of repotting the plant, there isn’t much, one needs to worry about regarding the care of the plant. However, one thing to keep in vision is the type of soil being used for the plant. Normally, the Philodendron Ring of Fire grows in neutral pH soil. However, some varieties prefer a slightly acidic pH.

Temperature & Humidity

When we look at the Philodendron Ring of Fire as a tropical plant species, we might wonder that it would demand to be in scorching temperatures. Well, that is not necessary for them as they can adjust to mild temperatures easily and grow out just well. Similarly, its humidity should also be mild from around 30% to 60%. This level of humidity is can easily be present in any normal household.

Fertilizing, Pruning, and Propagation

Every plant needs fertilizer to survive. Likewise, the Ring of Fire plant requires fertilizer that might be specialized for philodendron plants. Feeding the plant a few times a year is recommended.

Although the plant is very adoring with its vibrant, beautiful color leaves, pruning is necessary for maintaining its quality. If you notice that it has got abnormal or yellow leaves, it is better to cut them off. Pruning can also give the plant a fresher and tidier look.

Common Problems Caring for Philodendron Splendid

People taking care of plants can find themselves in problems and ask for help. For the Ring of Fire plant, there are some common difficulties, people might face while dealing with the plant. It is essential for them to know some basic problems that might occur and how they can manage to free themselves from them.

Mealybugs

The mealybugs are pests with soft bodies that get attached to the Ring of Fire plant to suck out its juices. They can disrupt the growth of the plant and can damage it from the inside. To get rid of them, use insecticidal washes or try to wash them off with water.

Thrips

Thrips seem similar to the mealybugs, as their purpose also is to feed on the plant’s nutrients. They cause the plants’ leaves to turn pale. Getting rid of them is also mandatory for the plant keepers as it can destroy the plant.

Water Stress

If the Philodendron Ring of Fire is less watered, or the gaps are increased between watering the plant, it gradually withers. Therefore, it is needed to responsibly water the plant every seven to nine days. Keeping in mind that excess watering might also be harmful, the right amount of water is needed to be given for effective growth.

Access Sunlight

Exposing the plant to direct sunlight in excess might lead the plants’ leaves to become pale and yellow. This means that the plant’s growth is disturbed and must be looked into. A simple solution is to put the plant in a semi shaded place where it gets just the right amount of sunlight.

See a similar post: Alocasia Pink Dragon

Final Thoughts on Philodendron Ring of Fire

The Philodendron Ring of Fire is a beautiful species of a hybrid plant, which, with its bright colors, brings joy to even the most lifeless places. It is super easy to care for it as it asks very little of its needs. Average sunlight, mild humidity, and once in a while watering are some of the things that, if managed properly, will help the plant grow with quality health and beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Philodendron Ring of Fire rare?

The Philodendron Ring of Fire is reported to be one of the super rare species in the world. Due to its stunning beauty of leaves, this plant is highly prized and one might be a very lucky person if they get their hands on this delicate species.

Why is the Philodendron Ring of Fire so expensive?

The Philodendron Ring of Fire is costly due is appealing appearance. It stands out in its beauty with delightful leaves of five colors. These colors, throughout the year, ranging from red, pink and orange to green and cream white. Even if this plant was commonly available, it would still be very much desired; its rarity adds to its cost value in the market.

How do you care for a Philodendron Ring of Fire?

Caring for the Ring of Fire plant is not very technical. It does not require much effort from its keeper but some precautions and measures should be taken to make sure the plant’s mature development.

It does not demand extreme circumstances regarding whether condition, soil acidity or humidity or sunlight. Just an average and mild proportion of each would do a great job in maturing the plant.

Is the philodendron ring of fire Variegated? 

Yes. The ring of fire is an ideal houseplant to give your indoor setting a beautiful and unique appearance with its serrated, different colored variegated leaves.