Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Tree Philodendron
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Taxonomy
Family Araceae · Genus Thaumatophyllum
Description
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum is a bold, self-heading aroid with huge, deeply cut leaves that bring instant jungle vibes to any space. Tough, adaptable, and forgiving, it thrives in bright, indirect light and rewards you with lush, architectural foliage as it matures.
Common Names
Tree PhilodendronLacy Tree PhilodendronPhilodendron SelloumSplit-Leaf Philodendron (often misapplied)Horsehead Philodendron
Context
nativeRegion
Southern South America: Brazil (especially south), Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina.
usdaZones
9b–11
companionPlants
Monstera deliciosa, Anthurium species, Calathea (Goeppertia), Ferns (Nephrolepis, Asplenium), Bromeliads (Neoregelia, Guzmania), Alocasia and Colocasia, Cordyline fruticosa
culturalUses
Widely used as a statement landscape plant or large houseplant; effective as a tropical screen/hedge in frost-free climates; leaves used in floral design; noted botanically for thermogenic blooms.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to dappled sun; tolerate a few hours of gentle morning sun. Avoid harsh, all-day afternoon sun indoors.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) of soil are dry; keep evenly moist in growth, slightly drier in winter. Outdoors, becomes moderately drought-tolerant once established.
SoilRich, chunky, well-draining mix (e.g., 40% high-quality compost/peat or coco coir, 30% bark, 20% perlite, 10% horticultural charcoal). Slightly acidic to neutral pH.
FertilizerFeed spring–summer every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength or use a slow-release granular. Supplement magnesium if persistent interveinal yellowing occurs.
HumidityPrefers 50%+ but tolerates average household humidity; higher humidity encourages larger leaves.
TemperatureIdeal 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C); frost will damage foliage.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, self-heading aroid forming a stout trunk with a rosette of deeply lobed leaves; arborescent, clumping habit over time.
Mature SizeIndoors 4–6 ft tall and 3–5 ft wide; outdoors 8–15 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide in ideal climates.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, bright, humid conditions.
BloomingRare indoors. In warm climates produces thermogenic spadix/spathe inflorescences mainly spring–summer.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler temperatures and shorter days.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of basal offshoots, Air layering, Trunk or stem cuttings with nodes, Seed (rare in cultivation)
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base; cut spent inflorescences. You may trim aerial roots, though they help support the plant.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years or when root-bound. Use a heavy, wide pot to prevent tipping as the trunk elongates.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and thrips; treat early with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Overwatering can cause root rot; occasional bacterial/fungal leaf spots possible.
ToxicityContains insoluble calcium oxalate; toxic if ingested by pets or humans and may irritate skin and mouth.