What is the difference between Red Diamond and Gold Diamond?
In the family of indoor green plants, Red Diamond and Gold Diamond are often mistaken for the same species. Although these two tropical ornamental leaf plants belong to the same family, Araceae, they have significant differences in varietal characteristics, ornamental value, and maintenance methods. Through the in-depth comparison in this article, you will master the precise identification methods and exclusive maintenance skills.
Varity Tracing and Plant Characteristics
Genetic Lineage Differences
As an improved variety of Gold Diamond, Red Diamond has a more compact plant form. Its Latin name, Philodendron erubescens 'Red Emerald', reveals its red genetic traits, while Gold Diamond (Philodendron selloum) is a more primitive wide-leaf variety.
Plant Form Comparison
Mature Gold Diamond can form a spectacular丛生 (tufted) shape up to 1.5 meters high, while Red Diamond maintains a delicate shape of 60-90 centimeters, making it more suitable for modern indoor spaces.
Leaf Ornamental Analysis
Red Diamond Color Mechanism
New leaves present a carnelian red color, which gradually changes to a dark green background with dark red veins as the leaves mature. The narrowly heart-shaped leaves have an average length of 25-35 centimeters, and the leaf base concaves to form a unique arc.
Gold Diamond Leaf Features
What is the difference between Red Diamond and Gold Diamond?
Oblong leaves can extend up to 60 centimeters, with new leaves presenting a glossy deep green color. The thick, leathery texture combined with wavy leaf edges exhibits the unique vitality of tropical plants.
Safety Maintenance Notice
Red Diamond's User-friendly Traits
Its completely non-toxic nature makes it a preferred choice for children's rooms and pet owners, and its ability to release oxygen at night can further improve the air quality in bedrooms.
Gold Diamond Protection Measures
The calcium oxalate crystals contained in the sap can cause skin irritation, so it is recommended to place it at a height of over 2 meters. Gardening gloves should be worn during pruning.
Exclusive Maintenance Plan
Red Diamond requires 4 hours of scattered light daily to maintain its leaf color and should be kept above 15℃ in winter; Gold Diamond is more shade-tolerant but requires a slow-release fertilizer monthly to maintain leaf luster. Both need to use a perlite mixed matrix to ensure good drainage.
Through systematic comparison, it can be seen that Red Diamond excels in safety and colorful leaf color, while Gold Diamond wins with its spectacular plant form. Reasonable selection based on space function and maintenance conditions, combined with the correct cultivation method, can fully showcase the unique charm of these two star green plants.