Cut-leaf philodendron Philodendron bipinnatifidum
ABOUT
Philodendron bipinnatifidum, also known as Cut-leaf philodendron or Lacy tree philodendron is a tropical perennial plant that is known for its attractive, deeply lobed leaves.
The leaves of the Philodendron bipinnatifidum are large and glossy, typically growing up to 1-2 feet long and 1-1.5 feet wide. They are deeply lobed and feathery in appearance, with a dark green color and a glossy texture. The leaves are arranged on long, sturdy stems that can reach up to 10 feet in length.
The plant also produces aerial roots that can grow from the stem and helps the plant to absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, the aerial roots are not common in indoor growing, but you can find them on outdoor growing plants.
It's important to keep in mind that Philodendron bipinnatifidum can be grown as a climbing vine or as a bushy, shrub-like plant, depending on how it is trained and pruned. The plant can also be grown in pots indoors, but it will require proper care and attention, such as regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning to keep it healthy and maintain its attractive appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Araceae
Synonyms
Split-leaf philodendron, Cut-leaf philodendron, Tree philodendron, Horsehead philodendron, Fiddle-leaf philodendron, Lacy tree-philodendron, Banana-de-macaco, Selloum, Panda plant
Common names
Philodendron lundii, Acontias bipinnatifidum, Arum pinnatifidum, Philodendron pygmaeum, Philodendron selloum
ToxicityTo humans
All parts of the Philodendron bipinnatifidum plant are considered toxic if ingested. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause severe burning and irritation of the mouth, throat and digestive tract. Ingestion may lead to symptoms such as swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and darrhea.
To pets
Philodendron bipinnatifidum is toxic to animals when ingested. The same insoluble calcium oxalates that can cause problems in humans can also cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in animals. It's important to keep pets away from this plant and any other potentially toxic plants in your home or garden.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
Up to 2 feet
Spread
Up to 1,5 feet
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South America
Benefits
General BenefitsThe large, glossy, and deeply lobed leaves of this plant can add a touch of tropical elegance to any room or garden;
Philodendron bipinnatifidum is considered a relatively easy-to-care-for plant that can be grown in a wide range of conditions, making it a great choice for both experienced and beginner gardeners;
This plant can be grown as a climbing vine or as a bushy, shrub-like plant, depending on how it is trained and pruned. It can be grown in pots both indoor and outdoor and can be used as a hanging plant;
Philodendron bipinnatifidum is a hardy and resilient plant that can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, making it a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance plant that can thrive with minimal attention.
Air-purifying QualitiesLike many other indoor plants, Philodendron bipinnatifidum is known to help purify the air by absorbing pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene.
It is also able to absorb CO2 and release oxygen during photosynthesis, which can help to improve air quality and increase the amount of oxygen in a room.
Other UsesThe large and deeply lobed leaves of this plant make it a great addition to terrariums as it adds an interesting dimension to the design and it can thrive in the closed environment of a terrarium. It can also be used in vivariums to add greenery and help create a natural environment for the animals living in it;
Philodendron can be trained to shape them into a miniature tree, it can be trained to grow in small container and can be shaped to fit a specific design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiIn feng shui, Philodendron bipinnatifidum is considered to be a plant that brings good luck, prosperity, and wealth. It is believed that the glossy leaves of the plant can help to attract positive energy, or chi, into a room.
According to feng shui principles, this plant is ideal for placing in the east or southeast area of a room, which is associated with the wood element and the family and health area.
Plant SymbolismThis plant symbolizes health and abundance.
An interesting fact: Pablo Picasso used Philodendron in his sculpture 'Woman in the Garden', in which the leaves can be seen with the nymph Daphne.
WaterAs a tropical plant, Philodendron bipinnatifidum prefers to be consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
It's important to wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering, which will usually be around once a week. You should always check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the soil. If the soil is dry, it's time to water. Water thoroughly and make sure that water is draining from the bottom of the pot.
LightPhilodendron bipinnatifidum prefers bright, indirect light.
It can tolerate low light but will grow slowly and may lose some of its variegation. It should be kept away from direct sunlight, which can cause leaf scorch.
TemperaturePhilodendron bipinnatifidum is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures between 60°F and 90°F and high humidity. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but it is best to keep it in a warm spot.
It can survive short periods of temperatures as low as 50°F but it's best to keep it above this.
PruningPrune your Philodendron bipinnatifidum as needed to control its size and shape, or to remove any dead or damaged leaves. You can use scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf node.
CleaningOnce a month
SoilPhilodendron bipinnatifidum prefers a well-draining, rich potting soil with a pH between 6 and 6.5.
A good mix for this plant would be one part peat moss, one part potting soil and one part coarse sand or perlite.
RepottingPhilodendron bipinnatifidum can grow quite large, so it may need to be repotted every 1-2 years.
You will know it is time to repot when the roots have filled the pot and the plant's growth has slowed down. It's best to do this in the spring when the plant is starting to grow again.
Humidity & MistingPhilodendron bipinnatifidum prefers high humidity levels of around 60-70%.
If the humidity level in your home is low, you can increase humidity around the plant by placing a tray of water near the plant, or by using a humidifier.
Suitable locationsIndoor
All year round
Outdoor
Philodendron bipinnatifidum can be grown outdoors in warm climates, in USDA zones 10-11.
It should be planted in a well-draining, rich potting soil and positioned in a spot that receives bright, indirect light. It's important to keep it in a warm spot, with temperatures between 60°F and 90°F and high humidity. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry.
Be aware that this plant is toxic if ingested, so keep it away from children and pets. It's also important to protect it from frost and cold temperatures, as it is not frost hardy.Hardiness zone
10 - 11 USDA
Life cycleThe plant typically begins its growth cycle in the spring, when it emerges from dormancy. During this time, new leaves and shoots will begin to develop, and the plant will start to grow actively.
As the plant grows, it will continue to produce new leaves and shoots, and its root system will also develop. During the summer and fall, the plant will continue to grow and mature. As the temperature begins to drop in the fall, the plant will enter a period of dormancy, during which growth slows down.
In the winter, the plant will be in a dormant state, but it will still be alive. The leaves may turn yellow or brown and fall off, but the plant will continue to survive underground. In the next spring, the plant will begin to grow again, starting the cycle anew.
It's worth noting that houseplants like Philodendron bipinnatifidum will not always follow this seasonal growth pattern, as they are often grown indoors under artificial light, and temperature conditions that do not reflect outdoor weather.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - early summer
By STEM CUTTINGS:
Take stem cuttings that are at least 4-6 inches long, including at least one leaf node. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days in a dry and shaded place before planting.
Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, and make sure to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it under a propagator to maintain high humidity. Keep the cutting in a warm place with bright, indirect light.
New roots should appear within several weeks, and new growth will appear within a month or two.
PestsSpider mite, Scale insects, Mealybug, Aphid
DiseasesAnthracnose, Root Rot, Leaf spot
