Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’

Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’

Rich, velvety foliage and dramatic emerging color give Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ a commanding presence worthy of its regal name.

This uncommon climbing Philodendron hybrid is admired for its large, heart-shaped leaves and beautiful progression of color. New foliage can emerge in deep chocolate-brown, bronze, or burgundy shades before gradually transitioning toward dark green as the leaves mature. Warm golden undertones, pronounced venation, and a soft velvety surface add depth and character to the foliage.

‘Choco Empress’ is especially impressive when allowed to climb. Providing a moss pole, plank, or other vertical support encourages its natural growth habit and can help the plant develop progressively larger foliage as it matures.

🌿 Growth Habit

A tropical climbing Philodendron that benefits from vertical support. Under favorable growing conditions, mature plants can produce substantially larger leaves than juvenile specimens.

☀️ Light

Grow in bright indirect light to filtered shade. Good filtered light helps support healthy growth and attractive coloration, while intense direct sunlight—especially strong midday or afternoon sun—can scorch the velvety foliage.

💧 Water

Water thoroughly and allow the upper portion of the potting mix to begin drying before watering again. Keep the plant consistently hydrated during active growth, but avoid keeping the root zone constantly saturated.

🪴 Soil

Use a rich but well-draining tropical or aroid mix. A chunky substrate that retains some moisture while allowing excellent airflow around the roots is ideal.

💦 Humidity

Moderate to high humidity is preferred. Humidity around 60% or higher can encourage healthy foliage development, although good airflow should always accompany higher humidity.

🌡️ Temperature

Prefers warm tropical conditions, ideally around 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from cold drafts and prolonged exposure to temperatures below approximately 55°F.

🌱 Fertilizer

Feed periodically during active growth with a balanced fertilizer at an appropriate diluted strength. Reduce feeding when growth naturally slows.

🪴 Repotting

Repot when the root system becomes crowded or when the growing medium begins to break down. Avoid unnecessarily disturbing a healthy root system.

🌿 Seasonal Growth

Growth is strongest under warm temperatures, good humidity, and adequate light. Indoor plants may slow considerably during cooler or darker periods.

🐾 Pet Safety

Philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals and should be considered toxic if chewed or ingested. Keep away from pets and small children.

📦 What to Expect

Each plant is a living specimen and will naturally vary in leaf size, coloration, maturity, and growth pattern. The characteristic chocolate or burgundy coloration is most noticeable on developing foliage and changes as individual leaves mature.

With proper care and a suitable climbing support, Philodendron ‘Choco Empress’ can become an impressive statement plant with increasingly dramatic foliage.