Congo Philodendron

Philodendron tatei subsp. melanochlorum 'Congo' is a self-heading tropical foliage plant with broad, glossy green leaves. It grows upright and outward into a self-supporting clump rather than a climbing vine. ## Form and placement A published plant patent describes the named selection as freely branching and rounded at maturity, with an approximate height of 20 inches and spread near 39 inches. The Chicago Botanic Garden describes 'Congo' as a broad-leaved, shrubby philodendron that needs no support; it distinguishes the green form, also sold as Congo Green, from the separate red-petioled 'Congo Rojo'. [Plant patent](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP11724P/en) · [Chicago Botanic Garden profile](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/philodendron-congo-congo-philodendron) ## Growing conditions Use it as a large indoor foliage specimen or in a warm, sheltered, shaded landscape. The Chicago Botanic Garden notes that philodendrons adapt to partly shady conditions and are not especially fussy about soil or watering. In a container, use a draining mix and water according to how quickly it dries; pot size and indoor conditions affect frequency. Keep philodendrons away from pets because the plant is toxic if eaten. ## Maintenance Allow room for the broad canopy and wipe dust from leaves as needed. Remove damaged foliage with clean shears, and provide support only if a particular plant becomes unusually top-heavy; the named selection is naturally self-supporting.