Warm undertones. Cool contrast. Controlled chaos.
Philodendron ‘Red Congo Mint’ is a variegated, self-heading hybrid that blends the bold structure of Red Congo–type philodendrons with soft mint-to-cream variegation layered over deep green foliage. New leaves often emerge with peach to coppery blush tones, pink-red petioles, and subtle mint wash that gradually settles as the leaf hardens.
Unlike high-contrast marbled varieties, Red Congo Mint expresses its variegation in a muted, painterly way—more atmospheric than graphic. Some leaves may lean greener with faint mint veining; others show broader pale sections or washed gradients. The result is a plant that feels balanced and intentional, even when individual leaves vary.
This variegation is chimeric in nature, driven by uneven chlorophyll expression across meristematic cell layers. That means variation between leaves is normal, but the plant retains the vigor and upright habit of the Red Congo lineage.
True to its Congo background, this plant is self-heading, forming a tidy rosette with thick petioles, broad leaves, and minimal internodal stretch. No climbing, no staking—just strong, architectural growth.
Exact Plant Details
Exact Plant — 3" Pot
• The exact plant shown in photos
• Fully rooted and acclimated
• Actively growing with visible mint expression and warm-toned new growth
• Compact, self-supporting structure
You will receive this exact plant.
Philodendron ‘Red Congo Mint’ Care Overview
Light
Bright, indirect light. Consistent filtered light supports clearer mint contrast and warmer new growth tones.
Humidity
50–80%. Higher humidity supports larger leaves and smoother expansion.
Watering
Allow the top 1–2 inches of substrate to dry before watering. Avoid saturated soil.
Substrate
Well-draining aroid mix with good airflow (peat or coco base with perlite, bark, charcoal or pumice).
Temperature
65–85°F. Avoid cold drafts or sustained temperatures below 60°F.
Feeding
Monthly during active growth. A balanced or slightly low-nitrogen fertilizer helps preserve color contrast.
Growth Habit
Self-heading. Upright rosette form with no climbing or support required.
Pests to Watch
Thrips and spider mites. Wipe leaves periodically and inspect new growth.
Philodendron ‘Red Congo Mint’ — FAQ
What is Philodendron ‘Red Congo Mint’?
Philodendron ‘Red Congo Mint’ is a variegated, self-heading philodendron derived from Red Congo–type genetics. It combines broad, upright foliage with soft mint-to-cream variegation layered over green leaves and warm-toned new growth.
Is Red Congo Mint a climber?
No.
Red Congo Mint is self-heading, meaning it grows in an upright rosette with thick petioles and tight internodes. It does not vine, climb, or require a pole.
Is the variegation stable?
The variegation is chimeric, so some variation between leaves is normal. That said, Red Congo Mint is generally grown for its overall look and structure, not identical leaf-to-leaf patterning.
You should expect:
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Some leaves with stronger mint or cream wash
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Some leaves that lean greener
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Ongoing variation rather than uniform repetition
This is expected behavior, not instability.
Why do new leaves look peach, copper, or pink?
New growth often emerges with warm blush tones due to anthocyanin pigments and immature chlorophyll. As the leaf hardens, these tones usually fade into green with mint or cream expression.
This color shift is normal.
Will the plant stay minty?
Mint expression can fluctuate with:
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Light intensity
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Feeding
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Overall growth rate
Bright, indirect light and moderate feeding help preserve lighter tones. Heavier nitrogen or low light can push growth greener over time.
Is Red Congo Mint slow-growing?
No.
Compared to many variegated philodendrons, Red Congo Mint retains good vigor, thanks to its Congo lineage. Growth is steady under warm, stable conditions.
Is this plant difficult to care for?
Not particularly.
Red Congo Mint follows standard philodendron care and is more forgiving than high-white or ultra-variegated plants. Consistency matters more than precision.
Are pale or mint areas more delicate?
Slightly. Lighter tissue can show cosmetic marks more easily, especially during shipping or environmental changes. Minor edge wear or temporary color shifts are normal and not a sign of poor health.
Is this an exact plant?
Yes.
This listing is for the exact plant shown. You will receive the photographed plant, fully rooted and acclimated.
Is Red Congo Mint toxic to pets?
Yes. Like most philodendrons, it is toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Our Live Delivery Guarantee
We stand behind every leaf and every mite. If your plant or predatory insects don’t arrive alive on the first delivery attempt, we’ll make it right.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Email us at info@fgmnnursery.com within 24 hours of delivery
- Include clear photos of the item and the shipping label
- Someone must be available to receive the package—plants and bugs don’t do well sitting in the sun, a mailbox, or the back of a delivery truck
For plants, we offer store credit if something goes wrong.
For predatory mites and beneficial insects, you’ll have the choice of a replacement shipment or store credit.
If you contact us after the 24-hour window, we may still be able to help—just know it’s handled case by case.
We pack with care, insulate when needed, and check the weather before shipping. But once it’s in transit, the fastest way to protect your order is to open it right away.