Philodendron bipinnatifidum
Philodendron bipinnatifidum
Lacy Tree Philodendron
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Taxonomy
Family Araceae · Genus Philodendron
Description
Philodendron bipinnatifidum (often sold as P. selloum) is a bold, self-heading aroid with deeply cut, glossy leaves that bring instant jungle vibes indoors or out. Tough, fast-growing, and forgiving, it thrives in bright, indirect light and makes a striking statement specimen.
Common Names
Lacy Tree PhilodendronSplit-Leaf PhilodendronPhilodendron selloumHorsehead Philodendron
Context
nativeRegion
Subtropical South America (Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, northern Argentina).
usdaZones
9–11 (outdoors with protection); commonly grown as a houseplant elsewhere.
companionPlants
Calathea, Alocasia, Ferns, Bromeliads, Cordyline, Colocasia, Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
culturalUses
Popular in tropical and modern landscapes, interior décor, and atrium plantings for dramatic foliage and architectural form.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to light shade; tolerates a few hours of gentle morning sun, avoid harsh afternoon sun.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; keep evenly moist but never soggy. Reduce in winter.
SoilRich, chunky, well-draining mix (e.g., peat/coco + bark + perlite) with slight acidity.
FertilizerBalanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; lightly or not at all in winter.
HumidityPrefers 50–70%+; tolerates average indoor humidity but thrives with more.
TemperatureIdeal 65–85°F (18–29°C); avoid below 55°F (13°C) and protect from frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, self-heading, trunk-forming aroid with large, deeply lobed leaves and aerial roots.
Mature SizeIndoors 4–6 ft (1.2–1.8 m); outdoors 8–12+ ft (2.4–3.7 m) with 2–3 ft leaves.
Growth RateFast in warm, bright conditions; moderate indoors.
BloomingRare indoors; outdoors may produce thermogenic spathe/spadix inflorescences in warm seasons.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cool, low-light months.
Propagation
MethodsAir layering, Stem/trunk cuttings with nodes, Division of basal offsets, Seed (rare)
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base; thin to shape and manage size; support or trim aerial roots as desired.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years or when rootbound; use a heavier pot or stake as plants become top-heavy.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for scale, mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats; prevent root rot with drainage; avoid bacterial leaf spot by keeping leaves dry and ensuring airflow.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (calcium oxalate); can irritate skin and mouth—keep away from pets and children.