How to Grow Philodendron Selloum
Philodendron Selloum
Philodendron bipinnatifidum
shrubPhilodendron selloum is a tropical semi-climbing shrub known for its large, deeply lobed heart-shaped leaves that can reach 2-3 feet long. It grows into a substantial architectural plant with a woody trunk and aerial roots, making it an impressive specimen for indoor and warm outdoor spaces. This low-maintenance plant is valued for its striking foliage and ability to purify indoor air.
When should you plant Philodendron Selloum in your zone?
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Example Philodendron Selloum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Philodendron Selloum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Philodendron Selloum
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives year-round in zones 10b-12; can be grown indoors in containers elsewhere
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Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung plant with smaller lobed leaves; develops root system and initial branching
Keep soil consistently moist, provide bright indirect light, maintain temperatures 65-75°F, maintain 50%+ humidity
Vegetative Growth
1-3 yearsPlant develops multiple stems, larger leaves, and begins aerial root formation; stems become woody
Fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced houseplant fertilizer (diluted); provide trellis or moss pole for support; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays
Mature Development
OngoingPlant reaches substantial size (3-6 feet tall indoors), produces very large lobed leaves (12-36 inches), prominent aerial roots visible
Fertilize bi-weekly during growing season; prune to control shape; wipe leaves monthly with soft damp cloth; ensure adequate drainage; support with sturdy moss pole or stake
Flowering (Rare Indoors)
Brief; flowers last days to weeksMay produce small cream-colored spathe flowers in ideal conditions; spathe surrounds prominent spadix
Typically requires mature plant, 5+ years old, in warm humid conditions; more common in outdoor tropical settings
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Common Pests
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Isolate affected plant; spray with neem oil or horticultural oil every 7 days for 3-4 weeks; wipe leaves with alcohol-dipped cotton swab
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Increase humidity; mist leaves regularly; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; ensure good air circulation
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Remove by hand with soft brush; apply neem oil or horticultural oil; repeat every 10-14 days
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; increase humidity; isolate plant; repeat treatments every 7-10 days
Uses
Indoor Air Purification
HouseholdPhilodendron selloum removes airborne toxins including formaldehyde, xylene, and ammonia from indoor environments. NASA Clean Air Study identified it as an effective air-purifying houseplant. [source]
Architectural Interior Design
HouseholdIts large deeply-lobed foliage and tree-like structure make it a striking focal point in living spaces, offices, and commercial interiors. The impressive leaves add tropical elegance to modern and traditional decors. [source]
Space Division and Privacy Screen
HouseholdThe large dense canopy effectively divides rooms, creates natural privacy screens, and screens windows while allowing filtered light through. Suitable for atriums and large interior spaces. [source]
Propagation and Plant Sharing
CraftEasily propagated from stem cuttings, making it excellent for plant propagation projects and sharing with fellow gardeners. Cuttings develop roots within 2-3 weeks. [source]
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental foliage plant; no harvest required. Prune lower leaves as plant matures for better appearance; remove dead leaves regularly; can cut stems to propagate (3-4 inch segments with at least one node); stem cuttings root readily in water or moist soil within 2-3 weeks
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Philodendron selloum produces distinctive deeply lobed 'fenestrated' leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long, with natural holes and cuts in mature leaves—scientists believe these holes reduce wind damage and allow light penetration in rainforest canopies.
- 🌱 The plant develops aerial roots that naturally climb trees in tropical rainforests; indoors, these can be trained onto moss poles or left to create interesting sculptural forms.
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Philodendron selloum,' taxonomists reclassified this plant as Philodendron bipinnatifidum in the 1990s, though the old name persists in the plant trade.
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