Philodendron Xanadu Vs Selloum

Choosing the right tropical plant for your space can be tricky, especially when two popular options look so similar at first glance. Understanding the philodendron xanadu vs selloum differences is key to picking the perfect plant for your home or garden. While both are stunning philodendrons with dramatic, split-leaf foliage, they have distinct personalities and needs.

This guide will help you tell them apart and decide which one fits your lifestyle. We’ll look at their size, leaf shape, growth habits, and care requirements. By the end, you’ll be confident in identifying and caring for these beautiful plants.

Let’s start with the most obvious differences. The selloum (Philodendron bipinnatifidum, sometimes called Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum) is the giant of the two. It can grow into a massive, tree-like shrub outdoors, reaching 10 feet tall and wide with leaves that stretch up to 4 feet long. The Xanadu (Philodendron xanadu) is its much more compact cousin, typically forming a dense clump that stays under 3 to 4 feet tall and 5 feet wide, with smaller leaves.

Leaf Shape and Structure

The leaf details are where you can really see the distinction. Look closely at the lobes and the way the plant grows.

Philodendron Selloum Leaves: The leaves are deeply lobed, with each lobe being quite narrow and pointed. They have a more feathery, ruffled appearance. The leaf stems (petioles) are long and smooth.
Philodendron Xanadu Leaves: The leaves have broader, more rounded lobes. They look less feathery and more like a collection of rounded fingers. The leaves are also glossier and grow closer together on shorter stems, creating a dense, bushy effect.

Growth Habit and Form

This is a major deciding factor for gardeners with limited space. Their growth patterns are not the same.

Selloum Growth: It develops a thick, central trunk-like stem as it matures. It becomes a large, upright specimen with leaves radiating outwards. It can look somewhat sparse and architectural at its base.
Xanadu Growth: It grows in a clumping form, sending out multiple stems from the base. It remains full and bushy all the way to the soil line, making it ideal for a tidy, mounded look in landscaping or a container.

Overall Size and Scale

Always consider the mature size. Many people buy a small selloum not realizing how enormous it can get.

Mature Selloum: A true landscape plant for large spaces. It’s often used as a focal point in subtropical gardens. Indoors, it will eventually need a lot of room and high ceilings.
Mature Xanadu: Perfect for smaller gardens, patios, or as a substantial indoor floor plant. Its controlled size makes it much more versatile for the average home.

Root System and Invasiveness

This is a crucial point for planting in the ground, especially in warm climates.

Selloum Roots: It develops an extensive and sometimes aggressive root system. In some areas, it’s considered invasive and can damage paving or foundations if planted to close to structures.
Xanadu Roots: Its root system is far less aggressive and contained. It’s generally considered a safer choice for planting near walkways or in mixed garden beds.

Care Requirements Comparison

Both plants share similar tropical origins, but their care has subtle differences due to their size and growth.

Light Needs

Both prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon rays which can scorch their leaves. The Xanadu is often noted to be slightly more tolerant of lower light conditions indoors, but neither will thrive in deep shade.

Watering Schedule

Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Both are susceptible to root rot. The larger selloum, with its bigger root mass, may need slightly more water when established, but the principle of “deep but infrequent” watering applies to both. Always check the soil first.

Soil and Fertilizing

A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is ideal. Feed them with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Because the selloum grows so much larger, it may benefit from a more robust feeding schedule when planted in the ground.

Temperature and Humidity

As tropical plants, they love warmth and humidity. They thrive in temperatures above 55°F (13°C). Average indoor humidity is usually fine, but they appreciate occasional misting or a humidifier, especially in dry winter months. Brown leaf tips can be a sign of air that’s to dry.

Which One Should You Choose?

Making the right choice depends entirely on your available space and visual goals.

Choose Philodendron Selloum if:

You have a large, open indoor space with high ceilings.
You want a dramatic, statement tree for a subtropical outdoor garden.
You prefer the look of long, arching, feathery leaves.
You have space away from buildings and pavement for its roots.

Choose Philodendron Xanadu if:

You need a manageable-sized plant for a patio, balcony, or standard room.
You want a dense, bushy filler for garden beds or containers.
You prefer the tidy, rounded look of its foliage.
You need a non-invasive plant for landscaping near structures.
You’re looking for a lower-maintenance floor plant indoors.

Common Problems and Solutions

Both plants can face similar issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them.

Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Check soil moisture and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Could also be a nutrient deficiency if it’s been a long time since feeding.
Brown Leaf Tips/Edges: Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase moisture in the air and check your watering consistency.
Leggy Growth or Small Leaves: This indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect light.
Pests: Watch for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Wipe leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Are Philodendron Xanadu and Selloum the same plant?

No, they are distinct species. They are often confused but have clear differences in size, leaf shape, and growth habit as outlined above.

Which is easier to care for, Xanadu or Selloum?

For most people, the Xanadu is easier due to its smaller, more contained size. It’s less demanding in terms of space and its roots are less problematic, making it a simpler choice for containers and smaller gardens.

Can I grow either plant indoors?

Yes, both can be grown indoors successfully. The Xanadu is often preferred for indoor spaces because of its compact size. A selloum can be grown indoors but will require a lot of space as it matures.

How fast do these philodendrons grow?

In ideal warm, humid conditions with good light, both can grow moderately fast. The selloum has the potential to grow much larger and therefore may appear to grow faster in terms of overall mass. Growth slows significantly in lower light or cooler temperatures.

Are they pet-friendly?

No. Like many philodendrons, both Xanadu and Selloum contain calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It can cause oral irritation and digestive upset. Keep them out of reach of pets.

Choosing between a philodendron xanadu and selloum ultimately comes down to the space you have to fill. For a bold, tropical statement with room to spare, the selloum is a classic choice. For elegant, manageable foliage that fits neatly into modern homes and gardens, the Xanadu is unbeatable. By understanding their unique traits, you can ensure either plant will thrive in your care and bring a touch of the tropics to your environment for years to come.