Taking Root: Seasonal gardening advice

So you have a shady spot on the north side of your house, where nothing ever seems to grow.
You’d like to plant something to spruce things up, but what to use?
You’re in luck!
Meet Rojo Congo
Philodendron, or Rojo Congo for short.
The Rojo Congo is native to South America and part of the Araceae family.
It produces large, oval-shaped leaves that are thick and smooth in texture.
The top side of the leaf is a deep emerald green color.
On the underside and stem, it’s a rich burgundy shade.
As new growth emerges, it comes out of the center with a beautiful, deep red shoot.
It will sometimes offer a lily-type bloom that can be pink, white or the color of rose wine, though I’ve never seen those flowers on the plants in South Florida.
The Rojo Congo generally grows 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide and needs little maintenance.

Moderation is the key with this beauty.
Light should be bright.But protect it from direct sunlight or the leaves may burn.
It likes soil that is moist and not too dry.
The Rojo Congo prefers temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees.
Philodendrons are not known to be prone to insects, but the plants may encounter aphids and mealybugs.
Insecticidal soap works well with keeping those pests under control.
The Rojo Congo looks great in mass plantings as it adds a lush, tropical appearance.
You can find them in town, planted in a median along Eagle Nest Lane near Main Street.
And if you plant it in a pot for your patio, you’ll be pleased with its rich, shiny, tropical texture.