Tree philodendron
Also called Split leaf philodendron, Philodendron selloum, Lacy tree philodendron.
| Light | bright indirect light |
|---|---|
| Water | Every 7 days in the growing season, every 14 in winter |
| Humidity | medium |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Height | Up to 150 cm (59 in) tall |
| Pets | Cats toxic, dogs toxic |
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, toxic and non-toxic plants, Tree Philodendron entry.
Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed. Toxic to cats and dogs. The principle is calcium oxalate crystals, causing intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it where an animal that eats houseplants cannot reach it, and speak to a vet if one does. In South Africa telephone the Poison Information Helpline on 0861 555 777; in the US, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
This is the philodendron that behaves like a shrub rather than a climber. It builds a short thick trunk, holds its enormous cut leaves out on long stalks, and needs a good deal more floor than people expect: a mature one occupies most of a corner. Give it bright light out of the sun, an open bark rich compost and a wide pot, and it asks for very little else. The commonest mistake is treating it like a fern and keeping it damp, which rots the base. The second commonest is buying one for a shelf. It is also sold as Philodendron selloum and as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, which is the same plant under three names and worth knowing when you go looking for one.
Ailments observed
| Yellow leaves at the bottom of the plant | Compost kept wet, which is the usual story with a large aroid. Let the top third dry out before watering again and check the pot actually drains. One or two old leaves yellowing a year is normal. |
|---|---|
| Brown crisp edges on the leaves | Dry air next to a radiator, or tap water on a plant that dislikes it. Move it away from the heat and group it with other plants. Rainwater helps if your tap water is hard. |
Filed underPlants that forgive a beginner, Statement plants
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