Philodendron Choco Empress

Description Light/Soil/Water Hardiness The Philodendron 'Choco Empress' is a popular, highly sought-after cultivar of the Philodendron genus, possibly a variety of Philodendron bipinnatifidum (Tree Philodendron). It is an upright, large-growing houseplant that creates a lush, vase-shaped clump. The 'Choco Empress' is renowned for its dynamic, color-changing, and highly textured foliage. New leaves emerge in a dramatic bronzy-chocolate or reddish-brown hue and gradually transition to a deep, glossy, dark green as they mature. The leaves are large and broad and often develop deeply lobed or scalloped edges, giving the plant a regal, sculptural, and highly distinctive appearance. This tropical houseplant has moderate to fast growth under ideal conditions, forming a large, sculptural plant over time. It can reach an indoor height of 4 feet or more with maturity. Prefers bright, indirect light. Ample light is key to maintaining the richness of its foliage color. Can tolerate medium light, but avoid direct, intense sunlight, which will scorch the leaves. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry. Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy to prevent root rot. Requires a rich, airy, and well-draining aroid mix. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral. USDA Zone 10-11 USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F) USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F) USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F) USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)