Philodendron xanadu
Philodendron xanadu
Xanadu Philodendron
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Taxonomy
Family Araceae · Genus Philodendron
Description
Philodendron xanadu is a compact, self-heading aroid with lush, deeply lobed leaves that forms a tidy clump—perfect for bright rooms and tropical gardens. Easygoing and resilient, it brings a bold jungle vibe without needing a climbing support.
Common Names
Xanadu PhilodendronWinterbournDwarf Lacy Tree PhilodendronDwarf Split-Leaf Philodendron
Context
nativeRegion
Species native to Brazil; 'Xanadu' cultivar selected in Australia.
usdaZones
9b-11
companionPlants
Calathea (Goeppertia), Aglaonema, Monstera deliciosa, Ferns (e.g., Nephrolepis), Peace lily (Spathiphyllum), Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), Alocasia
culturalUses
Popular as a low-maintenance indoor foliage plant and as a massed, tropical edging or foundation plant in warm-climate landscapes.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light to medium shade; avoid harsh midday sun. Gentle morning sun is fine.
WateringWater when the top 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) of soil is dry. Keep evenly moist, never soggy; reduce in winter.
SoilWell-draining, airy aroid mix: peat/coco coir + perlite/pumice + orchid bark; slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5).
FertilizerFeed every 4-6 weeks in spring-summer with a balanced, dilute liquid, or use a slow-release fertilizer in spring. Little to none in fall-winter.
HumidityAverage home humidity is fine (40-60%); 50%+ encourages larger, lusher leaves.
TemperatureIdeal 65-85°F (18-29°C). Protect from drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitClumping, self-heading, non-vining aroid with deeply lobed, glossy leaves forming a rosette.
Mature SizeIndoors 2-4 ft tall and wide; outdoors up to 3-5 ft tall and 4-6 ft wide.
Growth RateModerate
BloomingOccasional spathe-and-spadix inflorescences in warm conditions; rare indoors and not grown for blooms.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler, low-light months.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps, Basal stem cuttings, Air layering
DifficultyEasy to Moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base; thin crowded stems for airflow. Avoid cutting the central crown.
RepottingRepot every 1-2 years or when rootbound into a pot 1-2 in wider, using fresh, airy mix with excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, scale, mealybugs, and thrips. Overwatering can cause root rot; occasional bacterial/fungal leaf spots may occur.
ToxicityToxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals; can cause mouth irritation—keep away from pets and children.
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