Philodendron Selloum
$49.99
10” Pot
Philodendron selloum
(commonly known as Lacy Tree Philodendron or Horsehead Philodendron) is a popular, large-leafed tropical plant now scientifically reclassified as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum. It is prized for its deeply lobed, dramatic green foliage and its ability to grow into a substantial, self-supporting shrub with a trunk-like stem, rather than vining.
Key Care Requirements
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light (e.g., near an east or west-facing window). It can handle dappled sun but direct, intense afternoon sunlight may burn its leaves. Lower light conditions will cause it to become leggy.
- Watering: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. It prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil and is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Temperature: Thrives in warm, tropical climates, ideally between 65°F–85°F (18°C–29°C). Protect from temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
- Humidity: Thrives in high humidity (40–60% or more). If the air is dry, use a humidifier or a pebble tray.
- Soil: Use a loose, well-draining aroid mix. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand or orchid bark is ideal to ensure good aeration.
- Fertilizer: Feed monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Characteristics & Growth Habit
- Appearance: Features large, glossy green, deeply dissected (jagged) leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long.
- Growth Structure: Unlike many vining philodendrons, this is a "self-heading" plant, meaning it grows upright on a sturdy, woody stem.
- Size: Indoors, it can reach 5–8 feet tall and wide with age, making it an excellent statement plant.
- Aerial Roots: As the plant matures, it may produce brown, rope-like aerial roots. These are normal and are used to support its large size.
Troubleshooting & Maintenance
- Yellow Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
- Brown/Crispy Tips: Typically indicates low humidity or mineral build-up from tap water.
- Cleaning: The large leaves collect dust, which can block light. Regularly wipe them with a damp cloth.
- Pests: Look out for spider mites or mealybugs in the crevices of the plant.
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which cause irritation and swelling.
Popular Cultivars
- 'Hope'/'Little Hope': A more compact and, in some cases, bushier cultivar of the T. bipinnatifidum.
- 'Neon': Known for its bright chartreuse-yellow, almost glowing foliage