Philodendron Selloum

If you’re looking for a statement plant that brings a lush, jungle vibe indoors, the philodendron selloum is a perfect choice. This tropical foliage plant is known for its dramatic, deeply lobed leaves and impressive size.

It’s a relatively easy-going plant that can adapt to many home environments. With the right care, it will thrive and become a stunning focal point in your space. Let’s look at how to keep your philodendron selloum happy and healthy.

First, a quick note on names. You might see this plant labeled as Philodendron bipinnatifidum or “Tree Philodendron.” Recently, botanists have reclassified it into the Thaumatophyllum genus. But in garden centers and homes everywhere, it’s still most commonly known as the philodendron selloum. No matter the label, its care remains the same.

Ideal Light Conditions for Your Plant

Getting the light right is crucial. In its native habitat, this plant grows under the canopy of taller trees. It receives bright, but filtered, sunlight.

Best Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. A spot near an east or north-facing window is often perfect. A few feet back from a south or west window (with a sheer curtain) also works well.
What to Avoid: Direct, harsh afternoon sun can scorch and yellow the large leaves. On the other hand, deep shade will cause the plant to become leggy, with smaller leaves and longer gaps between stems.
Signs of Trouble: Pale leaves often mean too much light. Stretching stems and slow growth signal too little light.

Watering Your Philodendron Correctly

Overwatering is the most common mistake with this plant. Its thick roots can store water and are prone to rot in soggy soil.

Check the Soil: Before watering, stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days.
Water Thoroughly: When you water, do so completely until water runs out of the drainage holes in the pot. This ensures the entire root ball gets moisture.
Let it Drain: Always empty the saucer or cache pot after 15-20 minutes. Never let the plant sit in standing water.
Adjust for Seasons: Water more frequently in the spring and summer (growing season). In fall and winter, reduce watering significantly, allowing the soil to dry out more between sessions.

Soil and Potting Needs

A well-draining potting mix is non-negotiable. A standard houseplant mix is a good start, but you can improve it.

DIY Mix: Combine two parts regular potting soil with one part perlite and one part orchid bark or coco coir. This creates an airy, chunky mix that drains quickly.
Pot Choice: Always use a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are excellent because they allow the soil to dry out faster, reducing rot risk.
When to Repot: Repot every 2-3 years in spring, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. Only move up one pot size (about 2 inches wider in diameter).

Humidity and Temperature Preferences

As a tropical foliage plant, it appreciates higher humidity but is surprisingly adaptable to typical household levels.

Humidity: Aim for 40-60% humidity. If your air is dry (especially in winter), group plants together, use a pebble tray filled with water, or run a humidifier nearby. Browning leaf tips can be a sign of air that’s too dry.
Temperature: Keep your philodendron selloum in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C – 29°C). Avoid cold drafts from windows, doors, or air conditioning vents. Temperatures below 55°F (13°C) can damage the plant.

Feeding and Fertilizing Schedule

To support its large leaves, your plant will benefit from regular feeding during the growing season.

Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20). You can also use a slow-release granular formula applied in spring.
How Often: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks from early spring through early fall. In the late fall and winter, stop fertilizing altogether as the plant’s growth slows.
Important Tip: Always water the soil lightly with plain water before applying fertilizer solution. This prevents root burn from the concentrated salts.

Pruning and Cleaning the Leaves

Pruning is simple and helps maintain a attractive shape. You’ll mostly be removing old or damaged leaves.

How to Prune: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut the leaf stem as close to the main trunk as possible. Don’t tear it off.
When to Prune: You can remove yellowing or brown leaves at any time. For shaping, early spring is best, before the main growth spurt.
Cleaning Leaves: The large leaves collect dust. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth every month or so. This allows the plant to breathe and absorb more light. It also helps you check for pests.

Common Pests and Problems

This plant is fairly resistant, but it can occasionally have issues. Early detection is key.

Yellow Leaves: Usually caused by overwatering. Check your soil moisture routine. Lower, older leaves yellowing naturally over time is normal; just prune them off.
Brown Leaf Tips/Edges: Typically due to low humidity, underwatering, or a buildup of salts and minerals from tap water or fertilizer. Use filtered or distilled water if you see this pattern.
Pests: Watch for spider mites (fine webbing), mealybugs (white cottony spots), and scale (brown bumps on stems). Treat infestations early by wiping leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.

How to Propagate New Plants

You can create new plants from your mature philodendron selloum. The best method is stem cuttings or division.

Stem Cutting: In spring, cut a 4-6 inch section of stem that includes at least one node (the bump where a leaf meets the stem). Remove the bottom leaves.
Rooting: Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged. Change the water weekly. Or, plant it directly in a small pot of moist potting mix.
Division: When repotting a large, mature plant, you can carefully divide the root ball into two or more sections using a clean knife. Ensure each section has several stems and a healthy root system. Pot each division separately.
Aftercare: Keep the new cuttings or divisions in warm, bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture (but not wetness) until you see new growth, which signals established roots.

Is the Philodendron Selloum Pet-Friendly?

No, it is not. Like many plants in the araceae family, the philodendron selloum contains calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested by cats, dogs, or even humans, it can cause oral irritation, drooling, and digestive upset. It’s best to keep this tropical foliage plant out of reach of curious pets and children.

FAQ Section

Why are the leaves on my selloum turning yellow?
The most common cause is overwatering. Let the soil dry out more between waterings. Other causes can be not enough light, nutrient deficiency, or natural aging of lower leaves.

How fast does a philodendron selloum grow?
In ideal conditions with good light and regular feeding, it can be a moderately fast grower, putting out several new leaves each growing season. It can eventually reach up to 5 feet tall and wide indoors, over many years.

Can I put my philodendron selloum outside?
Yes, but only in warm months and in a sheltered location. Place it in dappled shade where it will get no direct hot sun. Remember to bring it back inside well before nighttime temperatures drop below 60°F.

Should I mist my philodendron?
Misting provides only a very temporary increase in humidity and can promote fungal leaf spots if water sits on the leaves to long. Using a pebble tray or humidifier is a more effective method for raising humidity.

What’s the difference between a selloum and a hope philodendron?
They are often confused! The ‘Hope’ is a more compact hybrid with slightly smaller, less deeply lobed leaves. The classic philodendron selloum (bipinnatifidum) gets larger and has more dramatic, feathery leaf splits.

With its forgiving nature and stunning looks, the philodendron selloum is a rewarding plant to grow. Pay attention to its light and water needs, and you’ll enjoy its vibrant tropical presence for years to come. Remember, consistency is more important then perfection when caring for this leafy friend.