Philodendron Selloum is a bold tropical plant known for its large, deeply lobed green leaves and thick stems. It grows well indoors and outdoors and stands out for both its appearance and durability.
This guide covers how to care for Philodendron Selloum in Australia, including potting, watering, light, temperature, humidity, feeding, pruning, pest protection, and propagation.
At a Glance
Philodendron Selloum is a tropical plant native to South America, especially Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. It belongs to the Araceae family, alongside Monstera, Anthurium, and Peace Lily.
It was first classified in 1829 as Philodendron bipinnatifidum, then later renamed Philodendron selloum. Today, it is widely grown as an ornamental plant indoors and outdoors in warm climates. In the right conditions, it can grow up to 15 feet tall.
It is a long-living plant and can thrive for more than 20 years, though it grows slowly and may take 15 to 20 years to flower. Its flowers consist of a spadix surrounded by a spathe, typical of plants in the Araceae family.
There are also several cultivars with different leaf shapes and sizes, including Lundii, Super Atom, Tortum, and Xanadu.
How to Care for the Philodendron Selloum Plant
The key characteristics and overview above should give you an idea of how to care for the Philodendron Selloum. But if you want a more detailed understanding, continue reading. Philodendron Selloum is very easy to grow, as long as you care for it properly, as recommended.
Choosing a Pot
The first point of care for your plant is where you plant it. If you are growing it in a pot, the size should be at least twice that of the plant, as this will allow enough room for the roots to spread and prevent root rot. The pot should also have drainage holes at the bottom, as this will prevent waterlogging and excess moisture in the soil.
Soil Conditions
This is essential whether you are planting in a pot or in a garden. The soil should be a quality potting mix enriched with organic matter, such as compost, perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir. These ingredients will provide nutrients, aeration, and moisture retention for your plant. You can also add some sand or gravel to improve drainage.
The soil pH should be neutral or slightly acidic (5.5 to 7.5). You can use a pH tester or a soil test kit to check the acidity of your soil and adjust it accordingly with lime or sulphur if needed. Avoid soil that is too acidic or too heavy for the plant, as this can cause nutrient deficiencies or root problems.
Watering
Watering is crucial for your Philodendron Selloum, as the plant prefers moist but not soggy soil. Here are some tips to help you water your plant properly:
#1. Check the topsoil
The best way to water your plant is to check the top layer of the soil with your finger. If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, you can wait for a few more days. Avoid watering on a fixed schedule, as this can lead to overwatering or underwatering, depending on the season and the environment.
#2. Water thoroughly on planting
When you water your plant, make sure to water thoroughly and evenly until the excess water drains out of the pot. Never let your plant sit in water, as this can cause root rot and fungal diseases. Likewise, remember to empty the saucer or tray under the pot after watering.
#3. Use lukewarm water
Use lukewarm water for your plant, as cold or hot water can shock the roots and damage the leaves. We also recommend keeping the water away from the leaves to prevent fungal infections or leaf spots. You can use a watering can with a long spout or a hose with a gentle spray to water your plant.
Keep an eye out for signs that your plant might be getting too much or too little water. This could include leaves turning yellow, looking droopy, or wilting. If you see these things happening, try adjusting how often you water the plant and regularly check how damp the soil is.
Also, take a look at the roots to see if they look rotten or damaged. If they do, consider moving the plant to a new pot.
Light Requirements
The ideal light for the Philodendron Selloum is bright, indirect sunlight, which means that the sun’s rays do not hit the leaves directly. To achieve this, place your plant near a window with a sheer curtain or in a spot with filtered light, such as under a tree or a pergola. You can also use artificial lights, such as LED lights, to supplement the natural light if needed.
Direct sunlight and very low light conditions can cause leaf burn and poor growth. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and make them turn brown or yellow. Very low light can make the leaves lose their colour and become leggy and weak. When planted in a pot, rotate your plant occasionally to ensure even growth and prevent leaning.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the Philodendron Selloum is between 65 and 80°F (18°C and 27°C), which is similar to the tropical climate where it originates from. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature in your home and adjust it accordingly with heaters or fans if needed. You should also keep your plant away from sources of heat or cold, such as radiators, air conditioners, or vents, as they can dry out the air and create drafts.
Exposing your plant to extreme heat or cold, drafts, or sudden temperature changes stresses the plant and causes leaf drop or damage. It's essential to acclimatise your plant gradually if you move it from one location to another, especially if there is a significant difference in temperature or light.
Humidity
Philodendron Selloum prefers a humidity between 70% and 90%. You can use a hygrometer to check the humidity in your home and adjust it accordingly with humidifiers or misters if needed. In the dry and hot seasons, mist your plant regularly with lukewarm water to create a moist environment for your plant.
You can also use other methods to increase the moisture in the air, such as using a pebble tray, grouping the plant with other humid-loving plants, or placing the plant in a bathroom or kitchen where there is more steam. Grouping the plant with other plants will also create a microclimate of higher humidity, as the plants will transpire and release moisture into the air.
A pebble tray is like a flat dish with water and small rocks. You put your plant pot on the rocks, not in the water. The water will disappear into the air and make the air around the plant more humid.
Do not place the Philodendron Selloum near heaters, air conditioners, or vents that can dry out the air and lower the humidity. Likewise, avoid direct sunlight or very low light, as they can increase the evaporation rate and make the plant lose more water.
Air Circulation
The ideal air circulation for Philodendron Selloum is moderate and consistent, which means that there should be some airflow around the plant but not too strong or erratic. You can use a fan or open a window to create some airflow around your plant, but make sure that it is not too close or too powerful, as it can damage the leaves or cause them to lose water. Also, rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth and prevent leaning.
Avoid exposing your plant to stagnant or poor air circulation, as it can promote fungal diseases and pests. Fungal diseases such as leaf spots or root rot can occur when there is too much moisture and not enough airflow around the plant. Pests such as spider mites or mealybugs can also thrive when there is not enough air movement around the plant. Inspect your plant regularly for any signs of disease or infestation and treat them accordingly.
Fertilising
Fertilising is important to your Philodendron Selloum. Here are some tips to help you fertilise your plant properly:
#1. Fertilising frequency
The ideal frequency for fertilising Philodendron Selloum is once a month during the growing season, which is usually from spring to autumn. You can also fertilise every two weeks if you want to boost the growth and appearance. However, avoid fertilising during winter, as this is the dormant period for your plant, and it does not need extra nutrients.
#2. Fertiliser type
The ideal type of fertiliser for Philodendron Selloum is a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength or a slow-release fertiliser spike inserted into the soil. This fertiliser type provides equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for the plant’s growth, flowering, and fruiting.
A slow-release fertiliser spike will release nutrients gradually over time and reduce the risk of over-fertilising. You can also use organic fertilisers, such as compost or worm castings, to enrich the soil and improve its structure.
#3. Overfertilising and underfertilising
Avoid overfertilising or underfertilising your plant to prevent leaf burn or damage to the roots. Overfertilising can make the soil too salty and toxic for the plant, while underfertilising can make the plant weak and susceptible to diseases and pests. Water the plant well before and after fertilising to prevent nutrient burn and help the fertiliser dissolve and reach the roots.
Pruning
Prune Philodendron Selloum in spring or summer, when it is actively growing and can recover faster. Dead or damaged leaves can be removed at any time, but avoid heavy pruning in winter.
Use sharp, sterilised scissors or pruners, and wipe away any sap from the cuts. Cut above a leaf node to encourage fuller growth, and remove stems that are too long, crowded, or unhealthy. Do not remove more than one-third of the plant at once.
Wear gloves and wash your hands after pruning. The plant’s sap contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate the skin.
Propagating Your Philodendron Selloum
You can propagate Philodendron Selloum from stem cuttings or divisions, either in water or in soil. Here are some steps to help you propagate your Philodendron Selloum plant in Australia:
1. Propagating by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are sections of the stem that have at least two leaves and an aerial root. You can take stem cuttings from your Philodendron Selloum plant in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Let’s go over how to propagate the plant using stem cuttings:
- To take a stem cutting, choose a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut it about 10-15 cm below a leaf node, using a clean, sharp knife or scissors. A leaf node is the point where a leaf or a branch attaches to the stem.
- Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only one or two leaves at the top. You can also trim the remaining leaves by half to reduce water loss and encourage rooting.
- Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder or gel, if you have any. This is optional, but it can help speed up the rooting process and prevent infection.
- You can either place the cutting in a jar or vase of clean water or plant it in a pot of moist, well-drained potting mix. If you choose water, make sure to change it every few days to keep it fresh and prevent algae growth. If you choose soil, make sure to water it well and keep it moist but not soggy.
- Place the cutting in a bright, indirect light spot and avoid direct sunlight or very low light. You can also cover the cutting with a plastic bag or a dome to create a humid environment and prevent wilting.
- Check the cutting for roots after four to six weeks. You can gently tug on the cutting to see if it resists. If you see roots growing out of the drainage holes of the pot or along the stem in water, you can transplant the cutting into a bigger pot with fresh potting mix.
2. Propagating by Divisions
Divisions are plantlets or pups that emerge from the base of the mother plant. They are already rooted and have their own leaves and stems. You can separate them from the mother plant and pot them individually. Here's how to propagate the Selloum plant using divisions:
- To separate a division, unpot your Philodendron Selloum plant and gently shake off the excess soil from the roots. You can also rinse the roots with water to make them more visible.
- Identify a division that has at least two leaves and a healthy root system. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut it off from the mother plant, making sure to leave some roots attached to both parts.
- Repot the mother plant and the division in separate pots with fresh potting mix. Water them well and keep them moist but not soggy.
- Place them in a bright, indirect light spot and avoid direct sunlight or very low light. You can also cover them with a plastic bag or a dome to create a humid environment and prevent wilting.
Caring for Your Propagated Plants
After propagating your Philodendron Selloum plant, you need to care for them until they establish themselves and start growing new leaves. Here are some tips to help you care for your propagated plants:
- Water your plants when the top layer of the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering or underwatering, as they can cause root rot or wilting.
- Mist your plants regularly with lukewarm water to increase humidity and prevent leaf drop. You can also use a humidifier or a pebble tray or group them with other humid-loving plants to increase moisture in the air.
- Fertilise your plants once a month during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilising during winter, as this is their dormant period, and they do not need extra nutrients.
- Prune your plants occasionally to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. You can also prune them to maintain their shape and size or encourage bushier growth.
- Watch out for pests such as spider mites or mealybugs or diseases such as leaf spot or root rot. Inspect your plants regularly for any signs of infestation or infection and treat them accordingly.
Repotting a Philodendron Selloum
Repotting a Philodendron Selloum helps your plant grow healthier and happier. It also provides fresh soil, more space, and better drainage for your plant. Here's everything you should know beforehand:
#1. When should you repot?
The best time to repot your Philodendron Selloum is in spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing and can recover faster from the stress of repotting. Avoid repotting in winter, as this is the dormant period for your plant, and it can slow down the healing process.
#2. How often should you repot?
The best frequency for repotting your Philodendron Selloum is every two years or when the plant becomes root-bound, or the roots peek out of the drainage holes. Check if your plant is root-bound by gently lifting it out of the pot and inspecting the roots. If they are tightly packed and circling the pot, it’s time to repot.
#3. What pot is best for repotting?
The best pot for repotting your Philodendron Selloum is one that is one to two sizes larger than the current one, no more. We recommend a pot that has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging and root rot. You can also use a plastic, ceramic, or terracotta pot, depending on your preference.
#4. What is the best soil for repotting?
The best soil for repotting your Philodendron Selloum is a loose, well-drained potting mix that is high in organic matter. You can use a peat-based potting mix or make your own by mixing compost, perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir. You can also add some sand or gravel to improve drainage, keeping the soil pH neutral or slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 7.5.
How to Repot Philodendron Selloum: Step-by-Step
To repot your Philodendron Selloum, follow these steps:
- Water your plant thoroughly a day before you plan to repot it. This will minimise stress on the plant and make it easier to repot.
- Prepare your new pot by filling it with some fresh potting mix and making a hole in the centre for the plant.
- Remove your plant from its old pot by gently tapping or squeezing the sides of the pot and pulling it out. Try not to damage the roots or the stem.
- Trim any dead or damaged roots with a sharp and sterilised pair of scissors or pruners. You can also prune any unwanted branches or stems if you want to reduce the size of your plant.
- Place your plant in the new pot and adjust its position until it is centred and upright. Fill the gaps with more potting mix and press it firmly around the roots.
- Water your plant well until the excess water drains out of the pot. You should also wipe any sap that may ooze from the cuts with a clean cloth or paper towel, as this can attract pests or cause fungal diseases.
- Place your plant in a bright, indirect light spot and avoid direct sunlight or very low light for a few weeks until it settles in its new home.
Once you've repotted your Philodendron Selloum, the best care is keeping an eye on it. Water it when the top layer of soil feels dry.
Also, give it a gentle mist with warm water now and then to make the air humid and stop its leaves from falling off. Don't give it any plant food for at least a month after repotting. This helps protect its roots and prevents too many nutrients.
Pest and Disease Control
Common Philodendron Selloum problems include aphids, scale, mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, leaf spot, blight, and root rot.
Sap-sucking pests like aphids, scale, mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies damage leaves and stems and often leave sticky residue behind. Remove heavily affected parts first, then treat the plant with insecticidal soap, neem oil, water spray, or alcohol on a cotton swab, depending on the pest. Repeat treatment until the infestation is gone.
Leaf spot and blight are fungal problems that cause dark spots, browning, wilting, or rot. Cut away infected growth, use a fungicide, improve drainage, and avoid overwatering or wetting the leaves.
Root rot is usually caused by excess water and poor drainage. Signs include yellowing leaves and black or mushy roots. Remove the plant from wet soil, trim the damaged roots, repot in fresh, well-draining mix, and water less often.
Why Are My Philodendron Selloum Leaves Turning Yellow?
Yellow leaves on a Philodendron Selloum usually point to one of a few common problems.
Overwatering is the most common cause. Too much moisture can lead to poor drainage, root stress, and eventually root rot. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings and make sure the pot drains well.
Poor lighting can also cause yellowing. This plant grows best in bright, indirect light, so low light can weaken growth and affect leaf colour. Another possible cause is nutrient deficiency, especially low nitrogen, which affects healthy leaf development. A balanced fertiliser can help.
Environmental stress can also trigger yellow leaves. Sudden changes in temperature, humidity, or location can put the plant under strain and affect its foliage.
Harvesting Your Philodendron Selloum
In its native habitat, Philodendron Selloum might produce fruit under specific conditions, but these conditions are difficult to replicate indoors. Still, if you do happen to have a Philodendron Selloum that is producing fruit, here are the general steps to harvest the fruit:
- Ensure that what you're seeing is actually fruit. Philodendron Selloum fruit typically looks like small, round, green berries that might turn yellow or brown as they ripen.
- Wait until the fruit is fully ripe. Ripe fruit should be softer to the touch and might change colour from green to yellow or brown, depending on the species.
- Gently pluck the ripe fruit from the plant using your fingers. Be careful not to damage the plant or the surrounding foliage.
- Once you've harvested the fruit, gently clean them to remove any dirt or debris. You can do this by rinsing them lightly under lukewarm water.
It's worth reiterating that Philodendron Selloum fruit production indoors is quite rare and often requires specific environmental conditions that are hard to replicate.
Philodendron Selloum can sometimes be propagated from seeds found within the fruit. If you're interested in trying to grow new plants from the seeds, carefully remove them from the ripe fruit and plant them in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide indirect light. Note, however, that growing Philodendron plants from seeds is a slow and challenging process.
Growing Philodendron Solleum at Home: Benefits and Drawbacks
Philodendron Selloum offers more than just good looks.
It helps improve indoor spaces by adding a lush, tropical feel and can make a room feel calmer and more inviting. Its large leaves also release moisture into the air, which can help with dry indoor conditions.
It is also often valued as an air-purifying plant, commonly associated with removing indoor pollutants and improving air quality.
Outdoors, mature plants may produce flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. In some cases, they can also produce fruit.
But it's not without drawbacks:
- It contains calcium oxalate crystals that may irritate the skin or mucous membranes if ingested or contacted. These crystals are present in all parts of the plant, especially in the sap.
- It can grow very large and invasive if not pruned or controlled. It can also send down aerial roots that can damage walls or structures.
- It can suffer from pests such as spider mites or mealybugs or diseases such as leaf spot or root rot if not cared for properly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Philodendron Selloum plant.
How fast does Philodendron Selloum grow?
Philodendron Selloum has a moderately fast growth rate and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide indoors, and 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide outdoors. It can take up to 10 years to reach its mature size and 15 to 20 years to flower for the first time.
How can I speed up the growth of the Philodendron Selloum Plant?
You can speed up the growth of the Philodendron Selloum plant by providing it with optimal growing conditions, such as bright indirect light, warm temperature, high humidity, well-drained soil, and regular fertilisation. You can also prune your plant occasionally to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems and encourage bushier growth.
Is Philodendron Selloum easy to care for?
Yes, Philodendron Selloum is easy to care for. It is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much fuss to thrive. It is adaptable to different light conditions, although it prefers bright indirect light. It is also tolerant of drought, although it prefers moist soil. It is resistant to pests and diseases, although it can suffer from root rot if overwatered.
Is Philodendron Selloum a lucky plant?
Different cultures may have different beliefs or superstitions about plants and their meanings. However, some people may consider Philodendron Selloum a lucky plant because of its lush and glossy foliage that creates a relaxing and soothing atmosphere. It also purifies the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene. It also provides oxygen and humidity by transpiring water through its leaves.
Is Philodendron Selloum an indoor or outdoor plant?
Philodendron Selloum can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the climate. It can be grown outdoors in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions where it will reach an impressive height of 15 feet. It can also be grown indoors in temperate zones where it will stay smaller and more compact. It can also be grown in large containers where it looks especially attractive at the poolside or on a patio.
• Philodendron Silver Sword: A striking philodendron variety with long, sword-shaped leaves showcasing a shimmering silver-green hue, adding an elegant touch to any indoor space.
• Philodendron White Princess: A captivating philodendron cultivar featuring heart-shaped leaves adorned with beautiful white variegation, creating a stunning contrast against the deep green backdrop.
• Philodendron Prince of Orange: A vibrant philodendron hybrid that boasts brilliant orange leaves when young, transitioning to a lustrous green as they mature, bringing a pop of warm color to any plant collection.
• Philodendron Xanadu: A tropical beauty known for its lush, glossy, deeply lobed leaves and easy-going nature, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor settings.
Wrapping Up
That is the end of this guide on caring for a Philodendron Selloum in Australia.
The plant is not difficult to grow once you get the basics right: the right pot and soil, proper watering, good light, suitable temperature and humidity, regular feeding, and occasional pruning.
If you still have specific questions, speak to a botanist or plant expert for more tailored advice. You can also share your experience or questions in the comments.
