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The Philodendron 'Ring of Fire' is an eye-catching and rare houseplant that has recently gained popularity due to its stunning variegated foliage. With its striking mix of green, yellow, orange, and red hues, the Ring of Fire is a true showstopper that can brighten up any space. As a relatively low-maintenance plant, it can thrive indoors with the right care. If you’re lucky enough to have one of these beauties, here’s a comprehensive guide to keeping your Ring of Fire plant happy and healthy.
The Philodendron Ring of Fire thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch its delicate leaves. A south- or west-facing window that provides bright, filtered light is ideal for this plant. If the light is too low, the variegation on the leaves may become less vibrant, and the plant may grow slower. If you notice that the leaves are turning yellow or the plant is becoming leggy, it could be a sign that it needs more light.
Like most philodendrons, the Ring of Fire is fairly drought-tolerant, but it’s important to avoid letting it dry out completely. Water your plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Typically, this will be every 1-2 weeks, depending on the environment and time of year.
During its growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently, while in the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce watering to allow the plant to rest. Be sure to water thoroughly, ensuring that the water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Always empty the saucer after watering to prevent the roots from sitting in water, as this can lead to root rot.
The Ring of Fire prefers warm temperatures and will thrive in environments between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Avoid placing it in areas where it is exposed to cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations, as this can stress the plant and lead to leaf drop.
As a tropical plant, the Ring of Fire enjoys higher humidity levels. Aim for humidity levels around 60% or higher to keep the plant happy. If your home is dry, especially in the winter months, you can increase humidity by placing a humidifier nearby, grouping plants together, or placing the plant on a tray with pebbles and water (making sure the pot is not sitting directly in the water).
The Ring of Fire prefers well-draining, light, and airy soil. A high-quality potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark works well for this plant. The soil should retain some moisture but drain quickly to prevent water from sitting around the roots.
When choosing a pot, make sure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Overwatering and poor drainage can lead to root rot, so proper drainage is crucial. Repot the plant every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for the roots to grow. Choose a pot that is just one size larger than the current one to avoid water retention in excess soil.
During the growing season (spring and summer), you can fertilize your Ring of Fire once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfeeding. Fertilizing during the dormant season is generally unnecessary, as the plant is not actively growing.
Over-fertilizing can lead to poor growth and damaged roots, so it’s important to use fertilizer sparingly. If you notice yellowing leaves or slow growth, this may indicate a lack of nutrients, and you can resume feeding the plant during the growing season.
The Ring of Fire is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but regular care will help it thrive. Trim any dead or damaged leaves to maintain its appearance. You can prune back leggy growth to encourage fuller, bushier growth. Pruning will also help control the size of the plant if it starts to outgrow its space.
This plant can be propagated by stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem with at least one leaf and a node, let the cutting callous for a day or two, and then place it in water or directly in soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location and change the water regularly if propagating in water. Once roots develop, you can pot the cutting in soil.
Unfortunately, the Philodendron 'Ring of Fire' is toxic to pets. Like many other philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and digestive system if ingested by pets. Keep this plant out of reach of curious cats, dogs, and other pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of your plant, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately.