Thaumatophyllum xanadu
Thaumatophyllum xanadu
Xanadu Philodendron
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Taxonomy
Family Araceae · Genus Thaumatophyllum
Description
Thaumatophyllum xanadu is a compact, self-heading aroid with lush, deeply lobed leaves that form a tidy clump. Easy-going and stylish, it brings a tropical look to homes and gardens without taking over your space.
Common Names
Xanadu PhilodendronPhilodendron XanaduThaumatophyllum XanaduWinterbourn
Context
nativeRegion
Originates from South American Thaumatophyllum lineage (notably Brazil); widely cultivated; selected in Australia in the 1980s.
usdaZones
9b–12 (outdoors in frost‑free climates; otherwise as a houseplant)
companionPlants
Monstera deliciosa, Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily), Aglaonema, Calathea/Goeppertia, Ferns (Nephrolepis, Asplenium), Alocasia, Schefflera arboricola
culturalUses
Popular for tropical mass plantings, low borders, and as a durable indoor ornamental; valued for tidy form and lush texture.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; tolerates medium light. A few hours of gentle morning sun is fine, avoid harsh afternoon sun.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry. Keep evenly moist in growing season; reduce slightly in winter. Avoid waterlogging.
SoilAiry, chunky aroid mix: coco coir or peat + bark + perlite/pumice; slightly acidic to neutral, fast-draining.
FertilizerBalanced liquid at half strength every 4–6 weeks spring–summer, or use a slow‑release granular at label rates.
HumidityPrefers 50–70% but adapts to typical indoor humidity; increase if leaf edges crisp.
TemperatureBest at 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from drafts; avoid below 55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitClumping, self-heading aroid forming a dense rosette; non-vining, develops a short, thickened base with age.
Mature SizeIndoors 2–4 ft tall x 3–5 ft wide; outdoors up to ~4 ft tall x 6 ft wide in ideal conditions.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warmth and bright indirect light.
BloomingOccasional spathe-and-spadix inflorescences on mature plants outdoors; rare and not showy indoors.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cool, low-light months.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps, Basal stem cuttings with nodes, Air layering, Tissue culture (commercial)
DifficultyEasy to moderate (division is easiest)
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base; thin to maintain shape. Wipe leaves to reduce dust; remove spent inflorescences.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years when rootbound; increase pot size 1–2 inches with fresh airy mix and good drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and thrips; treat early. Prevent root rot with drainage and moderate watering; avoid cold damage.
ToxicityContains calcium oxalate crystals; toxic/irritant if ingested by pets or humans; sap may irritate skin.