How to Care for the Philodendron Selloum

The Philodendron Selloum is a stunning houseplant that adds a tropical vibe to your home with its large, lobed, dark green leaves and sturdy stems. And whether you grow it indoors or outdoors, it impresses with its beauty and resilience.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you how to care for a Philodendron Selloum in Australia, covering the main aspects such as potting, watering, lighting, temperature, humidity, fertilisation, pruning, protecting, and propagating. Ready? Let's learn.

Philodendron Selloum: At a Glance

Philodendron Selloum is native to South America, especially Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It belongs to the Araceae family, which includes other popular houseplants such as Monstera, Anthurium, and Peace Lily. The name Philodendron comes from the Greek words Philo- meaning ‘love’ and dendron meaning ‘tree,’ reflecting the plant’s affinity for climbing trees. Selloum is the Brazilian name for this plant, derived from the Tupi-Guarani word celloúm, meaning ‘leaf.’

Philodendron Selloum was first classified by the Austrian botanist Heinrich Wilhelm Schott in 1829, who named it Philodendron bipinnatifidum. However, in 1853, the German botanist Karl Koch renamed it Philodendron Selloum, based on a specimen collected by the French naturalist Auguste de Saint-Hilaire in Brazil. It is a very popular ornamental and indoor plant but can also be grown outdoors in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate climates, reaching up to 15 feet in height and producing edible fruits.

The Selloum plant has a long lifespan and can live for more than 20 years if grown in optimal conditions. However, it has a slow growth rate and can take up to 15 to 20 years to flower for the first time. The bisexual and self-pollinating flowers consist of a spadix (a spike of tiny flowers) surrounded by a spathe (a modified leaf). The spadix is cream-coloured to light green, and the spathe is pale green to purple-green. It has several cultivars that vary in size, shape, and colour of the leaves. They include ‘Lundii’ (more compact), ‘Super Atom’ (smaller), ‘Tortum’ (thinner), and ‘Xanadu’ (more lobed).

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.

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.

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

Philodendron Selloum does not need much pruning, but can it benefit from some trimming. Here are some tips to help you prune your plant properly:

• Optimal Pruning Seasons. The ideal time for pruning your plant is in spring or summer when the plant is actively growing and can heal faster. You can also prune your plant anytime if you notice any dead or damaged leaves and stems that need to be removed. Do not prune in winter, as this can cause stress and slow down the healing process.
• Choosing and Preparing Pruning Tools. Prune your plant with a sharp and sterilised pair of scissors or pruners. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe the sap that may ooze from the cuts, and dispose of the pruned parts properly.
• Pruning Techniques for Health and Growth. Pruning the plant above a leaf node encourages new growth and makes the plant bushier and fuller. You can also cut off any unwanted branches or stems that are too long, too leggy, or too crowded. But be careful not to cut more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can reduce its vigour.
• Safety Precautions Post-Pruning. Wear gloves and wash your hands after pruning your plant, as this plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate the skin or mucous membranes if ingested or contacted. These crystals are present in all parts of the plant, especially in the sap, and can cause symptoms such as swelling, burning, itching, or rash.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Repot the mother plant and the division in separate pots with fresh potting mix. Water them well and keep them moist but not soggy.
4. 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 around 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:

1. 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.
2. Prepare your new pot by filling it with some fresh potting mix and making a hole in the centre for the plant.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.

Pest and Disease Control

Like most plants, Philodendron Selloum is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are the most common and how to deal with them:

• Aphids: These are small, sap-sucking insects that can attack new growths on the plant and leave behind a sticky substance that causes brown spots on leaves. Prune heavily infested leaves and stems, then treat the plant with water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Repeat until the infestation is gone.
• Scales: These are shell-like insects that also suck the sap of the plant and excrete honeydew. They look like raised bumps on the stems, leaves, and new growths. Remove heavily infested leaves and stems, then treat the plant with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs, neem oil, insecticidal soap, or other insecticides. Coat the leaves and their undersides and repeat until the infestation is gone.
• Mealybugs: These are oval-shaped insects covered with a white or off-white, wax-like substance. They also feed on the sap of the plant and excrete honeydew. They are usually found in clusters on the stems, leaves, and new growths. Remove heavily infested leaves and stems, then treat the plant with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs, neem oil, insecticidal soap, or other insecticides. Coat the leaves and their undersides and repeat until the infestation is gone.
• Spider mites: These are tiny, spider-like insects that can spin fine webs on the plant. They also feed on the sap of the plant and cause yellowing, wilting, or drooping leaves. Remove heavily-infested leaves and stems, then treat the plant with water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Repeat until the infestation is gone.
• Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be caused by improper soil, water, or drainage conditions. Remove infected leaves and stems, then treat the plant with a fungicide spray. Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering or splashing water on the leaves.
• Blight: This is another fungal disease that can cause wilting, browning, or rotting of the leaves and stems. It can be caused by improper soil, water, or drainage conditions. Remove infected leaves and stems, then treat the plant with a fungicide spray. Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering or splashing water on the leaves.
• Whiteflies: These are small, white-winged insects that can fly around the plant when disturbed. They also feed on the sap of the plant and excrete honeydew. They can cause yellowing, wilting, or drooping leaves. Remove heavily-infested leaves and stems, then treat the plant with water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Repeat until the infestation is gone.
• Root rot: This is a bacterial disease that can cause mushy or black roots and yellowing or wilting of the leaves. It can be caused by overwatering or insufficient drainage from compacted soil or too few drainage holes. Remove the plant from soggy or wet soil and cut off any mushy or black roots. Repot the plant in fresh potting mix with good drainage. Water less frequently and avoid waterlogging.

Why Are My Philodendron Selloum Leaves Turning Yellow?

The occurrence of yellow leaves on your Philodendron Selloum can be attributed to a range of underlying factors, each of which warrants careful consideration. Overwatering stands as a primary concern, where excessive moisture within the soil can lead to root rot and hinder effective drainage. To mitigate this, ensure that your plant's watering frequency is adequately balanced and that the soil's moisture levels do not become excessive.

Inadequate exposure to suitable light conditions can also trigger yellowing leaves. The Philodendron Selloum flourishes under conditions of bright, indirect sunlight. A lack of these ideal requirements can impede its photosynthetic processes, leading to the development of yellowing leaves. We advise you to reevaluate the placement of your plant and ensure it receives the optimal amount of light it requires.

Nutrient deficiency, specifically a scarcity of nitrogen, also contributes to the yellowing of leaves. Nitrogen is a pivotal element for healthy leaf development, and a dearth of this nutrient can lead to the manifestation of yellowing. Using a balanced fertiliser can help address this. In a similar fashion, consider the environmental conditions. Drastic fluctuations in temperature, humidity, or sudden changes in its surroundings can induce stress responses, leading to the yellowing of leaves.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Gently pluck the ripe fruit from the plant using your fingers. Be careful not to damage the plant or the surrounding foliage.
4. 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.

Growing Philodendron Solleum at Home: Benefits and Drawbacks

Philodendron Selloum is not only a beautiful plant but also a useful one. Here are some of the benefits of this plant:

• Selloum plant purifies the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene. These toxins are common indoor pollutants that can cause health problems such as headaches, nausea, irritation, and allergies. It can absorb these toxins through its leaves and roots and break them down into harmless substances. It is one of the best air-purifying plants according to a NASA study that tested the ability of various plants to remove indoor pollutants.
• Philodendron Selloum produces oxygen as a by-product of photosynthesis, which is the process of converting light energy into chemical energy. It can produce oxygen during the day and night, unlike most plants that only produce oxygen during the day. It also releases water vapours through its leaves, which is called transpiration. This increases the humidity level in the air, which can benefit human health and comfort. It can transpire a lot of water due to its large and glossy leaves, which can help humidify dry indoor air.
• It creates a relaxing and soothing atmosphere with its lush and glossy foliage that resembles a tropical rainforest. It can have positive effects on human mood, stress, productivity, and well-being. It can also add beauty and elegance to any space with its attractive shape and colour.
• Philodendron Selloum can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies with their flowers, which provide nectar and pollen as food sources. It can produce fragrant flowers that consist of a spadix (a spike of tiny flowers) surrounded by a spathe (a modified leaf). The spadix is cream-coloured and the spathe is purple-green. The flowers are bisexual and self-pollinating.
• Philodendron Selloum can produce edible fruits that can be consumed raw or cooked as food sources. The fruits are green when unripe and orange when ripe. These are berry-like and contain seeds, and are sweet and sour in taste. These fruits can be cooked and used in compotes or jams, or eaten fresh after removing the seeds.

However, Philodendron Selloum also has some drawbacks that should be considered:

• 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.

Wrapping Up

You have reached the end of this article on how to care for a Philodendron Selloum in Australia. We hope you have learned a lot and are ready to apply these tips to your own plant. As you can see, caring for a Philodendron Selloum is not very difficult, as long as you provide the right pot and soil, water, light, temperature, humidity, fertiliser, and pruning.

If you need any further information or advice on this plant, you can always reach out to botanists or experts who can help you with your specific questions or concerns. You can also share your experiences or questions about this plant in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you and see how your Philodendron Selloum is doing.