Tree Philodendron
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum · Araceae
📷 VSA.bing · Public domain
⚠️ Philodendron : cristaux d'oxalate de calcium dans toutes les parties. Ingestion cause irritation buccale, trouble de déglutition, irritation gastrique chez chiens, chats et enfants.
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around tree philodendron and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
- Family
- Araceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen, highly divided and spectacular
- Flowering
- May to July (discreet inflorescences)
- Adult size
- Up to 2 m in height
- Growth
- Rapid under optimal conditions
- Origin
- Tropical regions of South America
- Toxicity
- Toxic to domestic animals
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability low.
Expert tips
The key tip
Bright light (partial shade in very hot regions), rich, humus-filled soil, regular watering without waterlogging. In pots, use aerated substrate (potting mix + coco fiber + bark).
The common mistake
Overly compacted soil or poor drainage: roots rot, leaves yellow, and the plant progressively declines.
The pro's trick
When repotting, keep the collar slightly raised in aerated potting mix.
Care
Light
Place your bipinnate philodendron in bright, indirect light, ideally near an east or west-facing window. It tolerates partial shade but growth will be slower and foliage less vigorous. Avoid direct harsh sunlight which would scorch its large delicate leaves.
Watering
Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged during the growing season (spring-summer). Water regularly without allowing water to stagnate. In winter, reduce watering and wait for the soil to dry slightly between applications. Preferably use room temperature, filtered water.
Soil and substrate
Prepare a rich, aerated and well-draining mix made of quality potting soil, coco fibers and perlite. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Repot every two years in spring into a slightly larger pot.
Pruning and care
Prune lightly in spring to control shape and remove yellowed or damaged leaves. This plant naturally develops a spectacular tree-like form, generally just needs cleaning. Regularly dust the large leaves with a soft damp cloth to optimize photosynthesis.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (March to September). Reduce applications in fall and stop in winter. Follow recommended dosages as excess promotes mineral salt accumulation.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and mealybugs, especially in dry air. Spray with water regularly to increase ambient humidity. Root rot usually occurs after overwatering; let the substrate dry between waterings.
Did you know?
The Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum was once classified in the Philodendron genus, hence its persistent common name. Its scientific name 'Thaumatophyllum' literally means 'miraculous leaf' in ancient Greek, a reference to its immense deeply divided leaves that unfold like delicate plant lace. It's an undeniable star of modern tropical interior decoration, prized for creating a lush jungle atmosphere in homes.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.