The Philodendron Congo Green is a "self-heading" Philodendron, meaning it grows on a stiff, upright stem rather than climbing a vine or a pole. It is a fantastic "middle ground" plant—sturdier than the Ficus Ruby but more lush and tropical than the Ponytail Stump.

Here is your care guide for the Congo Green:

1. Light: The "Low to Bright" Adaptable

• Sweet Spot: It loves bright, indirect light, which keeps its deep green leaves large and glossy.

• Low Light: Unlike the Ficus Ruby, the Congo Green is quite tolerant of lower light. It will grow more slowly and stay smaller, but it won't lose its color or drop leaves as dramatically.

• Sun Protection: Keep it out of direct afternoon sun; its thick leaves can actually get "sunburn" (brown, crispy patches).

Split-leaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant, or windowleaf (Monstera deliciosa) is a tropical plant native to rainforests of Central America from southern Mexico to Panama, and commonly grown as a foliage houseplant. It has glossy, heart-shaped or rounded leathery leaves that develop deep clefts and oblong perforations as they grow older. The leaves may be as much as 18” wide on foot-long leafstalks. 

Light: Thrives in medium to bright indirect light. It can tolerate lower light conditions, though it will not thrive. Do not put it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Water: Water when 95% of soil is dry. 

*We recommend Bottom-watering, sometimes called reverse watering, is when you place a plant in a bowl of water, allowing the soil and roots to soak water from the bottom up. (Naturally, your pot needs to have drainage holes for this to work.)

Humidity: Normal household humidity is fine , but higher humidity encourages larger leaves. Your plant will benefit from regular misting.

Temperature: Your plant will grow well in temperatures between 65-80 degrees during the day and above 55 degrees at night. Keep it away from drafts, especially during the winter months.

Food: Feed once a month during spring and summer with a liquid fertilizer for indoor plants. Feed every other month during the fall and winter.

Toxicity: Philodendron leaves are toxic to pets and humans. 

4. Leaf Maintenance

• The "Gloss" Factor: Because the leaves are so large and dark, they show dust very easily. Wipe them with a damp cloth once a month to keep the leaf pores open and the plant looking "polished."

• Toxicity Warning: Like the Ficus, Philodendrons are toxic to pets. They contain calcium oxalate crystals which cause mouth irritation if chewed.

Comparison: Which one is which?