Xanadu Philodendron 'Winterbourn'
ABOUT
The Philodendron 'Winterbourn', commonly known as the Xanadu Philodendron, has a lush and exotic appearance. It features deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that have a leathery texture. Each leaf is unique, with pronounced, wavy margins that give the foliage a ruffled look. The leaves spring from thick stems that tend to grow in a dense, compact cluster. The plant itself has a full and bushy habit, which adds to its ornamental appeal. The Xanadu Philodendron's leaves are arranged in a way that they create a layered effect, giving the foliage depth and volume. As the plant matures, its leaves can become quite large, contributing to its tropical aesthetic. Despite its robust look, the Xanadu Philodendron does not flower frequently when grown indoors, and its visual interest lies primarily in its dramatic foliage. Overall, the Xanadu Philodendron has a striking appearance that can add a touch of the tropics to any indoor or outdoor setting, without taking into account its overall size.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Araceae.
Synonyms
Xanadu Philodendron, Philodendron xanadu.
Common names
Philodendron xanadu
ToxicityTo humans
The Xanadu (Philodendron 'Winterbourn') is toxic to humans due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. If any part of the plant is ingested, symptoms may include a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, difficulty in swallowing, and possible vomiting and diarrhea. Contact with the sap may also cause skin irritation.
To pets
The Xanadu (Philodendron 'Winterbourn') is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, due to calcium oxalate crystals. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, symptoms can include oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Severity of symptoms can vary based on the amount ingested and the size of the pet.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
3 feet [0.91 meters]
Spread
3 feet [0.91 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Central America South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Indoor Aesthetics: The Philodendron Xanadu, with its lush green foliage, adds natural beauty and a tropical feel to indoor spaces.
- Improves Mood and Reduces Stress: Being around green plants like the Philodendron Xanadu has been shown to help lower stress levels and improve moods in individuals.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal watering and can tolerate lower light conditions than many other plants.
- Fosters Responsibility: Taking care of a living plant like the Xanadu can help individuals develop a sense of responsibility and routine.
- Increases Humidity: By releasing water vapor during transpiration, the Philodendron Xanadu can help increase indoor humidity levels, which can be beneficial during dry months.
- Adaptability: The Xanadu is adaptable to a variety of indoor conditions, making it a versatile choice for different rooms and settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The unique shape and vibrant green leaves of the Xanadu plant can serve as inspiration for artists and designers seeking a tropical or natural aesthetic in their work.
- Photography Subject: Due to its lush foliage, the Xanadu plant makes an attractive subject for photographers looking to capture the essence of a tropical environment.
- Educational Tool: In schools, the Xanadu plant can be used to teach children about plant biology, rainforest ecosystems, and the importance of plant care.
- Sound Absorption: The dense leaves of the Xanadu may help absorb ambient noise in busy or echo-prone areas, potentially reducing noise pollution.
- Event Decor: The Xanadu can be used as a decorative element in events like weddings or parties, enhancing the venue with its tropical appearance.
- Craft Material: Leaves of the Xanadu plant can be used in crafting, for making impressions in clay or as a part of a natural collage.
- Living Walls: When planted in mass, the Xanadu plant can be utilized to create a living wall for both aesthetic and privacy purposes.
- Theme Gardens: The Xanadu can be included in theme gardens, such as a tropical or rainforest-themed garden, to provide authenticity to the setting.
- Property Value Enhancement: Landscaping with the Xanadu could potentially increase property value by improving curb appeal with its exotic look.
- Horticultural Therapy: The Xanadu plant can be incorporated into horticultural therapy programs to provide a calming and engaging activity for participants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Philodendron, known for its lush, green leaves, can enhance Feng Shui by promoting the flow of positive Chi, representing growth and vitality. It can be placed in the wealth or health sectors of a space to activate these areas.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Philodendron is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Growth: The Philodendron Winterbourn, also known as the Xanadu plant, symbolizes growth due to its lush, evergreen leaves that continuously unfold.
- Ease: As a plant that's easy to care for, the Xanadu signifies ease and a no-fuss attitude towards life.
- Longevity: The Philodendron Winterbourn is durable and long-lasting, making it a symbol of longevity and endurance.
- Domestic bliss: With its ability to purify the air and create a cozy environment, the Xanadu is often associated with domestic happiness and serenity.
WaterThe Xanadu plant, which is a common name for Philodendron 'Winterbourn', should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It is usually sufficient to water this plant every 1-2 weeks, but the frequency may vary depending on the humidity and light conditions. When watering, soak the soil thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Use approximately 16-24 ounces of water, ensuring even distribution around the plant. During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency as the plant's growth slows down.
LightFor the Xanadu plant, it is best to provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. A north-facing window is a good spot for this plant, or a few feet away from a south, east, or west-facing window where the sunlight is less intense. If there is too little light, the plant's growth may slow, and the leaves may become larger and darker to absorb as much light as possible.
TemperatureThe Xanadu plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as cold temperatures can damage the plant. Ideally, maintaining an indoor temperature around 75 degrees Fahrenheit will keep the plant healthy and encourage growth.
PruningThe Xanadu plant benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and promote fuller growth. Prune in spring or early summer, which allows the plant to recover during its active growing season. Remove yellow or damaged leaves and trim back any leggy stems to keep the plant looking tidy. Depending on the plant's growth, pruning every couple of months can be beneficial.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Xanadu plant prefers a well-draining, peat-based potting mix with a pH of 5.5 to 6.0. A mix of one part peat, one part pine bark, and one part coarse sand or perlite is ideal for good root health.
RepottingXanadu should be repotted every 2-3 years or when roots start to crowd the pot, to ensure continued growth and prevent root-bound conditions.
Humidity & MistingXanadu thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 60% to 80%. They are tolerant of average household humidity but appreciate a boost in moisture.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Xanadu in bright, indirect light, away from drafts.
Outdoor
Grow Xanadu in shade or part-shade and protect from cold.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Philodendron 'Winterbourn', commonly known as the Xanadu Philodendron, begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in warm and moist soil where it develops a root system and first leaves. As a juvenile, it grows rapidly, producing more distinctive, lobed leaves that are a hallmark of the species. Transitioning to maturity, the plant continues to expand in size and may produce aerial roots aiding in stability and nutrient absorption. The mature Xanadu Philodendron then reaches reproductive maturity and can produce inflorescences, which consist of a spathe and spadix, typical of the Araceae family. After pollination, which in natural settings is facilitated by insects, the plant produces berries containing seeds, thus closing the reproductive cycle. Eventually, older plants may experience senescence, the final stage of the life cycle, where growth slows and the plant may die back, although in cultivation, they can live for many years with proper care.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Philodendron 'Winterbourn', commonly known as the Xanadu Philodendron, can be effectively propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to do so is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, a healthy stem with at least two nodes should be cut using a sharp, sterilized blade. The bottom leaves are removed to expose the nodes, and the cutting is then placed in water or directly into potting soil. If rooting in water, once roots have developed to a few inches (several centimeters), the cutting should be transplanted into soil. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not soggy, and the cutting should be placed in a warm, well-lit area without direct sunlight to encourage root growth.
