Blog

Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, commonly known as Philodendron Selloum, Lacy Tree Philodendron, or Philodendron Hope, is a stunning tropical plant native to Central and South America. With its large, deeply lobed leaves and impressive size, this plant makes a bold statement in any indoor or outdoor space. In this comprehensive care guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your Philodendron Selloum thriving, from light requirements to propagation techniques.

💡 Fun fact: Philodendron Selloum was recently reclassified as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, but it is still widely known by its former name.

Key Takeaways:

• Philodendron Selloum requires bright, indirect light and well-draining soil
• Water when the top inch of soil is dry and maintain moderate to high humidity
• Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer
• Prune yellow or damaged leaves and repot every 2-3 years to promote growth
• Propagate by cutting below the node and placing the cutting in water until roots form

Essential Care Requirements

Light Requirements for Philodendron Selloum

Philodendron Selloum thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Place your plant near an east- or west-facing window, where it can receive filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and cause damage to your plant. If you notice the leaves turning pale or yellow, it may be a sign that your Philodendron Selloum is receiving too much light.

Fun Fact: In its native habitat, the Philodendron Selloum is an epiphyte, meaning it grows on other plants or trees without harming them. This adaptation allows the plant to reach optimal light conditions in the wild.

Watering Tips for Philodendron Selloum

Water your Philodendron Selloum when the top inch of soil is dry. Stick your finger into the soil to check moisture levels before watering. When watering, make sure to thoroughly soak the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Additionally, mist the leaves occasionally to increase humidity and keep your plant looking fresh.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water when watering your Philodendron Selloum, as cold water can shock the roots and cause stress to the plant.

Soil and Potting Requirements

Philodendron Selloum prefers a well-draining potting mix that allows for proper aeration and moisture retention. A suitable potting mix should include:

• Peat moss or coconut coir for moisture retention
• Perlite or pumice for drainage and aeration
• Orchid bark or charcoal for additional drainage

When repotting your Philodendron Selloum, choose a pot that is 2-4 inches larger in diameter than the current one and has ample drainage holes. Repot your plant every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for growth.

Fertilizing Philodendron Selloum

To keep your Philodendron Selloum healthy and promote growth, use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause salt buildup in the soil and harm your plant. During the winter months, reduce or stop fertilizing altogether, as the plant’s growth slows down during this time.

Organic Fertilizer Option: If you prefer using organic fertilizers, you can apply a layer of compost or well-rotted manure around the base of your plant every spring. This will provide a slow release of nutrients throughout the growing season.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of your Philodendron Selloum. Trim yellow or damaged leaves to promote new growth and keep your plant looking its best. If your plant becomes too large, you can also prune back the stems to control its size. Repot your Philodendron Selloum every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for growth.

Cleaning Tip: To keep your Philodendron Selloum‘s leaves looking shiny and healthy, gently wipe them with a damp cloth or sponge to remove dust and debris. This will help the leaves absorb light more efficiently and promote better growth.

Temperature and Humidity Requirements

Philodendron Selloum prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid exposing your plant to temperatures below 60°F (15°C), as this can cause damage to the leaves. Maintain moderate to high humidity levels, especially in drier indoor environments. You can increase humidity by placing a humidifier near your plant, misting the leaves regularly, or setting the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

Humidity Tip: If you live in a particularly dry climate, consider grouping your Philodendron Selloum with other humidity-loving plants to create a microclimate with higher humidity levels.

Propagation of Philodendron Selloum in Water

Propagating your Philodendron Selloum is a simple and rewarding process. To propagate in water, follow these steps:

1. Cut below the node of the Philodendron Selloum stem, ensuring that the cutting has at least 2-3 leaves.
2. Place the cutting in a jar of water and position it in an area with bright, indirect sunlight.
3. Change the water every week or as soon as it looks murky to prevent bacterial growth.
4. Once the roots are 2.5-5cm long, transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining potting mix.

With proper care, your new Philodendron Selloum plant will thrive and grow into a beautiful addition to your indoor or outdoor space.

Propagation Tip: You can also propagate your Philodendron Selloum directly in soil. Place the stem cutting in a pot with moist, well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, humid environment until new growth appears.

🪴 Looking for other Philodendron varieties to add to your collection? Check out our care guides for Philodendron Xanadu, Philodendron Cordatum, and Philodendron Pink Princess! 🌿

Seasonal Care Tips

During the growing season (spring and summer), increase watering and fertilization to support your plant’s active growth. Water your Philodendron Selloum when the top inch of soil is dry and fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

In the winter, reduce watering frequency and avoid fertilizing altogether, as the plant goes dormant during this time. Keep your plant in a warm, bright spot and maintain moderate humidity levels to prevent stress.

Caring for Philodendron Selloum Indoors and Outdoors

The Philodendron Selloum can be grown indoors or outdoors, depending on your climate and available space. When growing outdoors, make sure to give your plant enough room, as it can grow up to 3.6m tall. Choose a spot with bright, indirect light and protect your plant from strong winds or direct sunlight.

Indoors, the Philodendron Selloum won’t grow as large as its outdoor counterpart. If you have limited space, consider opting for the Philodendron Selloum Compacta, a smaller cultivar that is well-suited for indoor use. Make sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy, as the Philodendron Selloum prefers consistently moist soil.

Indoor Tip: To help your indoor Philodendron Selloum thrive, consider using a grow light to supplement natural light, especially during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.

Toxicity and Edibility

It’s important to note that Philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Keep your Philodendron Selloum out of reach of children and curious pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Warning: Ingesting any part of the Philodendron Selloum can cause painful swelling and irritation of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. If you suspect your child or pet has consumed any part of the plant, seek medical attention immediately.

Interestingly, the fruit of the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum (Selloum) can be cooked and eaten, as the cooking process breaks down the toxic compounds. However, it’s crucial to properly prepare the fruit and avoid consuming any other parts of the plant.

Common Pests and Diseases

Like many houseplants, Philodendron Selloum is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Some common issues to watch out for include:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Mealybugs: These white, cottony insects can weaken your plant and cause leaf drop. Remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or use an insecticidal spray.
• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cause distorted growth and sticky honeydew on the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Fungal diseases: Overwatering and poor air circulation can lead to fungal issues like root rot or leaf spot. Prevent these diseases by avoiding overwatering and ensuring proper drainage and air flow around your plant.

Prevention Tip: Regularly inspect your Philodendron Selloum for signs of pests or disease. Catching and treating issues early can prevent them from spreading and causing more serious damage to your plant.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best care, your Philodendron Selloum may sometimes experience issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Yellowing leaves: This may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiencies. Check your watering schedule and ensure you’re not overwatering your plant. If the problem persists, consider testing your soil and adjusting your fertilization routine.
• Brown tips: Brown tips can be a sign of underwatering or low humidity. Increase watering frequency and mist the leaves regularly to improve humidity levels around your plant.
• Drooping leaves: Drooping leaves may indicate that your plant is thirsty. Check the soil moisture and water your Philodendron Selloum if the top inch of soil is dry. If the soil is wet, the problem may be root rot caused by overwatering.
• Leggy growth: If your plant is growing long, spindly stems with few leaves, it may not be receiving enough light. Move your Philodendron Selloum to a brighter location or consider supplementing with artificial light.

Troubleshooting Tip: Keep a journal of your plant’s care routine and any issues that arise. This can help you identify patterns and make adjustments to your care practices as needed.

Conclusion

With its stunning foliage and impressive size, the Philodendron Selloum is a beautiful addition to any plant collection. By providing your plant with the proper light, water, humidity, and nutrients, you can enjoy its beauty for years to come. Remember to monitor your plant for signs of stress or disease and adjust your care routine as needed. With a little love and attention, your Philodendron Selloum will thrive and become a stunning focal point in your home or outdoor space.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my Philodendron Selloum?

Water your Philodendron Selloum when the top inch of soil is dry. Stick your finger into the soil to check moisture levels before watering. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

2. Can I grow Philodendron Selloum outdoors?

Yes, you can grow Philodendron Selloum outdoors if you live in a warm, humid climate. Choose a spot with bright, indirect light and protect your plant from strong winds or direct sunlight. Keep in mind that outdoor plants can grow much larger than their indoor counterparts.

3. How do I propagate my Philodendron Selloum?

To propagate your Philodendron Selloum, cut a stem below the node, ensuring that the cutting has at least 2-3 leaves. Place the cutting in a jar of water and position it in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. Once the roots are 2.5-5cm long, transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining potting mix.

4. How often should I fertilize my Philodendron Selloum?

Fertilize your Philodendron Selloum every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause salt buildup in the soil and harm your plant.

5. Is Philodendron Selloum toxic to pets?

Yes, Philodendron Selloum contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to pets if ingested. Keep your plant out of reach of curious pets to prevent accidental ingestion. If you suspect your pet has consumed any part of your Philodendron Selloum, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Pet Safety Tip: If you have pets, consider placing your Philodendron Selloum in a hanging basket or on a high shelf to keep it out of reach. Alternatively, you can opt for pet-friendly plants like Spider Plants, Boston Ferns, or Ponytail Palms.