Philodendron ‘Congo’
 
Common Names Congo Philodendron, Green Congo, Upright Philodendron
 
Zones 9B–11 (outdoors); Zone 8+ with protection; indoor year-round in colder zones
 
Philodendron ‘Congo’ is a self-heading hybrid prized for its bold, upright foliage and low-maintenance temperament. Unlike vining philodendrons, ‘Congo’ forms a tidy rosette of glossy, paddle-shaped leaves that emerge from a central stem. Its architectural form and deep green coloration make it a favorite for interiorscapes, office settings, and tropical container gardens.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Self-heading; rosette-forming; moderate growth rate
Height: 2–3 ft. tall; 2–3 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; short internodes; basal swelling with age
Leaves: Broadly ovate to elliptical; glossy deep green; 10–18 in. long
Petiole: Thick, upright; green to reddish at base
Inflorescence: Rare indoors; white spathe and spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced in cultivation
Ecology: Hybrid cultivar; no native range; bred for ornamental foliage and compact form
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light; tolerates medium light indoors
Watering: Allow top 1–2 inches of soil to dry; water thoroughly when dry
Soil: Chunky, well-draining mix with peat, perlite, and compost
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect below 50°F (10°C)
Humidity: Moderate to high (50–90%); misting or humidifier recommended indoors
Propagation: Division or stem cuttings with node
Tolerance: Cold-sensitive; moderate pest resistance
 
Landscape Use Ideal for interiorscapes, tropical patio containers, and shaded garden beds. Pairs well with Philodendron ‘Rojo Congo’, Anthurium ‘Superbum’, and Calathea ‘Maui Queen’ for bold foliage contrast.