If you’re looking for a houseplant that truly stands out from the crowd, you need to meet the philodendron shangri la. This eye-catching variety is a fantastic choice for adding a bold, architectural look to your indoor jungle. Its unique form makes it a real conversation starter.
Unlike many vining philodendrons, the Shangri La is a self-heading type. This means it grows in a neat, bushy clump. The leaves are what really capture your attention. They emerge deeply lobed and almost shredded-looking, creating a wonderfully textured effect.
It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant once you understand its basic needs. Let’s get into everything you need to know to keep your philodendron shangri la thriving.
Philodendron Shangri La
This plant is a patented cultivar, known scientifically as Philodendron bipinnatifidum ‘Shangri La’. It’s sometimes called the “Split-Leaf Philodendron” but that name is shared with other plants. Its most striking feature is its foliage. New leaves unfurl with a bright, lime-green color before maturing to a deep, glossy green.
The “shredded” appearance happens because the leaf margins are deeply incised. Each leaf can grow quite large, adding to the plant’s dramatic presence. It’s a slower grower compared to some philodendrons, but this makes it easy to manage indoors.
Why It’s Considered Rare and Unusual
You won’t find this plant at every big-box garden center. Its unique morphology sets it apart. The densely lobed leaves are quite different from the typical heart-shaped or large, flat leaves of common philodendrons.
It’s propagation is also controlled due to its patent. This limits how many nurseries can produce it, adding to its rarity. Finding one often requires checking specialty plant shops or reputable online sellers.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Getting the environment right is the key to a healthy plant. The Shangri La isn’t fussy, but it does have preferences.
Light Requirements
This plant prefers bright, indirect light. An east or north-facing window is often perfect. A spot a few feet back from a south or west window works too, provided it’s shielded from harsh afternoon sun.
Direct sun can scorch those beautiful leaves, causing brown patches. Too little light, however, will result in leggy growth and smaller leaves that lack deep color. If you notice the stems stretching, it’s a sign to move it closer to a light source.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, it enjoys warmth and moisture in the air. Aim for room temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). Keep it away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heating ducts, which can cause stress.
Average household humidity is usually acceptable, but it will truly thrive with higher humidity. If your air is dry, consider these simple solutions:
- Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (ensure the pot sits above the water line).
- Group it together with other humidity-loving plants.
- Use a room humidifier nearby, especially in winter.
Brown leaf tips can be a common sign that the air is to dry for the plants liking.
Plant Care and Maintenance
With a consistent routine, your philodendron shangri la will be a long-lived companion.
Watering Your Plant Correctly
Overwatering is the most common mistake. This plant likes its soil to partially dry out between waterings. Here’s a simple method:
- Check the top 1-2 inches of soil with your finger.
- If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
- Water thoroughly until excess water drains freely from the bottom of the pot.
- Always empty the saucer or cache pot after 15 minutes to prevent “wet feet.”
Reduce watering frequency in the winter when growth slows down. Yellowing leaves often indicate to much moisture around the roots.
Soil and Fertilizing Needs
A well-draining, airy potting mix is essential. A standard houseplant mix amended with perlite or orchid bark works great. This prevents soil compaction and ensures roots get oxygen.
Feed your plant during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks. There’s no need to fertilize in the fall and winter. Always water the soil before applying fertilizer to avoid root burn.
Pruning and Repotting
Pruning is mainly for aesthetics or to remove any old, yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut leaves off at the base of their stem. This encourages the plant to put energy into new growth.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a new pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Spring is the best time for repotting, as the plant is entering its growth phase.
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with great care, you might encounter an issue. Here’s how to troubleshoot.
Pests to Watch For
Like many houseplants, the Shangri La can occasionally attract pests. Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves. Common culprits include:
- Spider Mites: Look for fine webbing and stippling on leaves. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: Appear as small, white, cottony masses. Dab them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Scale: Look like small, brown bumps on stems and leaves. Treat similarly to mealybugs.
Early intervention is key to managing any pest problem effectively.
Leaf Discoloration and Other Issues
- Yellow Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering. Check your watering schedule and ensure proper drainage.
- Brown Leaf Tips/Edges: Typically caused by low humidity, underwatering, or a buildup of salts from fertilizer. Flush the soil occasionally with plain water.
- Leggy Growth with Small Leaves: The plant needs more light. Move it to a brighter location.
- Drooping Leaves: Can be caused by either extreme underwatering or overwatering. Assess the soil moisture to determine the cause.
Propagation Tips
Propagating a philodendron shangri la is a bit different than its vining cousins. Since it grows from a central clump, the primary method is division. This is best done during repotting in the spring.
- Gently remove the plant from its pot and shake off excess soil.
- Look for natural divisions in the root clump—sections with their own stems and roots.
- Using your hands or a clean, sharp knife, carefully separate a section. Ensure each division has a good amount of roots attached.
- Pot each new division into its own container with fresh potting mix.
- Water lightly and provide high humidity as the new plants establish.
It may take a few weeks for new growth to appear, so be patient. Leaf cuttings or stem cuttings are not a reliable method for this particular variety.
Styling and Placement Ideas
The Shangri La’s sculptural form makes it a versatile design element. Its textured leaves add incredible depth and interest to any room.
It works beautifully as a solo statement piece on a plant stand, filling an empty corner. It also complements other plants with smoother foliage, like ZZ plants or Snake Plants, creating a pleasing contrast. Because of its bushy, upright habit, it’s perfect for tabletops or floor placements where it won’t sprawl out of control.
Just ensure whatever location you choose meets its light requirements. A bright living room, sunroom, or well-lit bedroom are all excellent choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Philodendron Shangri La toxic to pets?
Yes, like all philodendrons, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It can cause oral irritation and digestive upset. It’s best to keep this plant out of reach of curious pets.
How fast does a Shangri La Philodendron grow?
It is considered a moderately slow grower, especially indoors. You can expect a few new leaves each growing season. Its slow growth is actually a benefit for indoor gardeners, as it won’t quickly outgrow its space.
Why are the new leaves on my Philodendron Shangri La not as lobed?
This is normal. New leaves often emerge less divided and will develop their characteristic deep lobes as they mature and unfurl completely. Give them some time.
Can I put my Philodendron Shangri La outside in summer?
You can, but you must be cautious. Acclimate it gradually to outdoor conditions over a week or two. Place it in a fully shaded spot—direct outdoor sun is much to intense and will burn the leaves. Always bring it back inside before nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F.
Where can I buy a Philodendron Shangri La plant?
Check local specialty plant nurseries or search for reputable sellers online. Read reviews and inspect photos before purchasing. Due to its rarity, it may be more expensive than common philodendron varieties.