Last Updated on March 22, 2021 by Sophie
Philodendron Selloum is known by many names including Philodendron Bipinnatifidum, lacy tree philodendron, and horsehead philodendron, and perhaps most commonly, philodendron hope. The term ‘philodendron’ is sometimes shortened to ‘philo’. Part of the family Araceae, this easy to grow philodendron is characterised by its large deep lobed leaves and is a vining plant variety.
Though harder to find for sale than some other more common philodendron varieties, here’s a Philodendron Selloum care guide, including propagation tips and how to water the green plant. The indoor plant originates from South America, and in particular, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. Philodendron Selloum in toxic to people and animals.
Given enough time (15 to 20 years worth of plant maturity), the philodendron will flower so long as it has enough light and nutrients. The flowers are white and are petal-less, not dissimilar in appearance to those of the peace lily. Though the plant doesn’t bloom much, the real botanic interest lies in its uniquely shaped leaves.
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Philodendron Selloum Plant Care & Watering Guide
Watering your Philodendron Selloum
When it comes to philodendron care, I personally allow my plants to dry out completely in-between waterings so as to avoid root rot. Philodendron Selloum plants are also susceptible to mineral build up in the water.
As such, you should be sure to use distilled water or change out the soil on occasion so as to prevent this. If the leaves are given the right conditions, then the lobed leaves can grow a staggering five foot in diameter, though this is unlikely in most indoor home growing conditions.
Best soil conditions for the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum
Like many houseplants, the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum enjoys light, well-draining soil. After all, one of the greatest causes of plant death is root rot. Though there is no specific recipe that is required, a good houseplant mix tends to be made from a mixture of organic matter and well draining substances such as pumice and sand.
The plant should be fertilised around once every few weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a light fertiliser. I tend to fertilise my plants with about half the recommended fertiliser amount and personally use a dedicated fertiliser which has been made for indoor tropical plants.
Best light conditions for the Bipinnatifidum Philodendron
Philondeondrons are prone to burning in direct sunlight and so should not be placed in a full-sun position, for example by a south-facing window. Instead, place your philodendron in bright indirect sunlight where it will thrive and grow.
Though the houseplant will tolerate lower light conditions, this is not ideal and will lead to slower growth. Like other houseplants, the plant should be rotated towards the light source on a regular basis (for example, each time the plant is watered), so as to promote even growth on all sides.
How to propagate Selloum Philodendron
Creating new plants from your Philodendron Selloum couldn’t be easier and is a great opportunity to create free new houseplants for yourself or gifts for other plant loving friends. Simply cut the plant with a section that includes one, and preferably two, nodes (as well as leaves so that the plant can continue to adequately photosynthesise when rooting).
Then place the cutting in water and wait for several weeks (sometimes a couple of months, especially during the colder months of the year), and roots will begin to form from the node. Once the roots are several inches long and the plant is water rooted, pot up the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and you’ll have a brand new plant addition to your home.
Avoid overwatering your newly created potted cutting as the roots will be small and delicate! I particularly love propagating my philodendron plants in this manner as I find that these small cuttings can grow fast fairly rapidly (especially considering that the Selloum Philodendron is such a fast growing plant) and make for great gifts for friends.
Philodendron Selloum pests and problems
Due to the common advice of underwatering the plant as opposed to overwatering it, one of the most common problems when it comes to the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum is that of yellowing leaves. though this can sometimes be caused by pests, it’s most commonly caused by underwatering your philodendron plant. Philodendrons are susceptible to mealybugs and aphids, particularly when they are stressed such as being too pot-bound or when they are particularly underwatered.
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