In this blog post, you’re going to learn how to easily propagate and care for Philodendron xanadu.
This is a comprehensive guide covering reliable information about different aspects of this cultivated variety.
In this post, I’ll cover:
- Interesting Facts
- Propagation
- Repotting
- Care
And
- Solutions to Common Problems
So, if you are looking to propagate and care for Philodendron xanadu, this guide is for you.
Fun Facts
| Common Name | Philodendron xanadu, Winterbourn philodendron |
| Botanical Name | Thaumatophyllum xanadu |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Fruit | Berry-like (very rarely produce) |
| Mature Size | 3-5 ft. tall and wide |
| Sun Exposure | Partial exposure (Prefer bright and indirect light) |
| Soil Type | Moist but well drinking soil |
| Soil pH | Acidic |
| Native Area | Brazil |
| Toxic | Toxic to humans and pets both |
| Growth | Fast growing |
Philodendron xanadu is a perennial evergreen shrub grown in sandy areas with bright and indirect light. Its deep-divided, gray-green leaves can be up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide. The heart-shaped leaves look appealing with dark green shades and silvery striations.
This fast-growing species forms thick, blushy leaves in indoor and outdoor setups.
Flowers and Fruiting
It produces a flowering structure containing a spathe and spadix (a flowering structure in the family of Araceae). The flowers too much smaller having almost no visual impact on the plant.
In a favorable outdoor environment, these structures develop into berry-like fruits. These fruits lead to the dispersal of the seeds for natural propagation.
Benefits
Let’s look at the benefits of this plant;
Air Purification: The Xanadu Philodendron has benefits such as air purification. it removes formaldehyde, one of the most common indoor air pollutants.
Low Maintenance: It does not need much attention when it comes to care, which makes it perfect for anyone with little time to manage plants. It is suitable for different light conditions and does not require frequent watering.
Aesthetic Appeal: The Xanadu Philodendron has large, deep-lobed, attractive leaves that give any area a tropical look. It is a fast-growing plant and thus well suitable for planting at blind corners or as a specimen plant.
Compact Size: Xanadu is a relatively moderate growing and can do nicely in typical apartments, offices, or on shelves.
Natural Humidifier: Because it leaves moisture in the air through a process of transpiration, it helps regulate humidity indoors, which is good for the skin, breathing system, lungs, and body system in general.
Resilience: This plant is relatively immune to pests and diseases, so artificial spraying will not be frequent. It will serve you for many years before it starts to deteriorate.
Improves Mental Well-being: Like any other indoor plant, the Xanadu Philodendron can help clear the air and create a more peaceful atmosphere by assisting people in managing their stress and improving mood.
Versatility in Decor: The Xanadu is an evergreen that effectively blends with different interior designs, such as modern, simple, raw, or boho looks.
Suitable for Indoor Settings: Xanadu Philodendron prefers indirect sun exposure and medium to bright indirect light. This feature makes it an ideal plant for indoor use like homes, offices and workspaces, etc.
Propagation
The propagation can be done through stem cutting. Cut a healthy stem 4 inches long with no discoloration. Make a cut below a leaf node. Remove all the leaves from the bottom, leaving only 2 to 3 leaves on the top. Dip the cut into the rooting hormone. This step is not necessary, but it will give a nice boost to your plant. Place the stem into the soil. The soil must be moist, not soggy. Water the soil and wait for the excess water to drain. Keep the plant in a warm and humid area, and in a few weeks, you will see the new roots.
Repotting
The plant should be repotted when the roots outgrow from the pot. They can change the pot every two years, depending on the growth of the plant. Choose an early springtime for repotting. It’s the time when plants are fully active in their growth mode. This will cause less stress and shock from repotting, and plants will easily adjust to their new environment. Use a pot 3 to 4 inches bigger than the previous one.
Care
Here are the things you need to care for your Xanadu philodendron:
Pruning
The plant does not need regular pruning. You just need to remove dead leaves whenever you see one.
Soil
Use soil that is rich in nutrients, airy, and holds enough moisture for the plant. You can use an equal amount of indoor potting soil; perlite and orchid bark are great options. You can use the ready-made soil mix for the philodendron as well.
Pot
Use a pot that has a lot of drainage holes. The ceramic or terracotta pot is recommended. This material can keep the needed moisture. If you use a plastic pot, that will not have breathable space for your plant. The size of the pot should be wider and bigger than the roots. This plant does not need a deep pot. A pot that can cover their roots would be great.
Water
You can water your xanadu philodendron when the soil starts to dry. Do not wait for the soil to dry completely. Add water thoroughly and wait for it to drain through the drainage holes. Avoid overwatering your plant, as this plant is sensitive to overwatering and can develop root rot. It’s better to under-water your plant than overwater it.
Light
For perfect growth, xanadu philodendrons need several hours of indirect sunlight. More exposure to light can cause plants to burn, and it will start turning the leaves yellow. The plant can survive in low light as well, but prolonged periods can cause rot in the roots.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month. Use the fertilizer in spring and summer. Avoid using it in winter when the temperature starts to fall off. Do not apply fertilizer to the dry soil. Water the plant first, then add the fertilizer, which will protect the roots from damage.
Temperature and humidity
The xanadu philodendron does fine in a normal household atmosphere. These plants enjoy the humid levels where available. If you notice dry leaves and soil increase, the humidity around your plant will increase. You can place a humidifier nearby or move your plant to a more humid room. You can place your plant near a bathroom or laundry room.
Placement
Place your plant where bright indirect sunlight is available. Too much exposure can cause burns to the leaves. Avoid low light as well. The plant can survive in low light, but it will become leggy. The plant needs a place where the temperature stays between 65 °F to 80 °F. Make sure the room has enough space for the plant to grow.
Common Problems
Here are the common problems of every household plant:
Pests
No plant is safe from the attack of pests and bugs. Spider mites and mealybugs are the most common pests. They can attract more insects, such as fungus ants, that can further damage your plant. To eliminate any residual bugs, you need to inspect the plant daily. If you find any, wipe them off with a cotton swab and dip them in rubbing alcohol.
Fungal Diseases
The most common fungal disease found in philodendron plants is root rot. This happens because of overwatering. The roots stay in soggy soil for too long, causing the roots to rot. The reasons for this can be overwatering, poor drainage, and insufficient exposure to light. Check your watering schedule. Place your plant where the indirect sunlight is available. If the pot does not have enough drainage holes, change the pot.
Brown Tips
The brown tips can be due to pests, watering, and lack of sunlight. Examine the environment of your plant closely to find the main reason. The pests can further lead to root rot. Look out for that. To save the plant, carefully prune away the affected areas.
Curling Leaves
Low availability of light, extreme temperature, or less humidity can cause curling leaves. Place your plant in the direction where indirect sunlight is available. Plants need 3 to 4 hours of good light. Increase the humidity around the plant.
Yellow leaves
Yellow leaves on the plant are normal. The yellow leaves are the oldest ones or the dying ones. But if you notice most of the plant leaves are turning yellow, including new leaves, then there is a problem. The reason for this is less exposure to light and overwatering. Another reason can be excessive light exposure, while under watering can also cause yellow leaves. Check the watering time and space where the plant is placed.
Toxicity
The plant is toxic to both humans and animals. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be harmful. If your pet has eaten the plant, it can cause swelling, vomiting, pain, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Take your pet to the vet immediately. When human skin comes in contact with plants, it can cause rash and itching. Irritation in the mouth and throat leads to gastrointestinal upset.
Varieties & Similar Plants
Here is the list of varieties and similar plants of xanadu philodendron:
Varieties
- Philodendron ‘Winterbourn’
Similar plants
- Philodendron Selloum
- Philodendron Hope
- Philodendron bipinnatifidum
- Alocasia ‘Polly’
