Source: Wikimedia Commons
Philodendron Xanadu
BeginnerThaumatophyllum xanadu
A mid-sized philodendron forming a dense mound of glossy, deeply lobed leaves. First spread from an Australian nursery, it was later described as a wild species.
About
Xanadu, now Thaumatophyllum xanadu, is a perennial aroid believed to be native to southern Brazil and Paraguay. It was found in 1983 as a chance seedling in a Western Australian nursery, thought to be a sport or hybrid of selloum, protected under plant breeder's rights as 'Winterbourn' and also sold as 'Showboat'. In 1988 an Australian grower group renamed it 'Xanadu' and it became widely popular, but it was later shown to have come from seed of a wild Brazilian plant and was formally described as Philodendron xanadu. It forms a dense clump 0.9-1.5 m tall and wide, with glossy, deeply lobed leaves up to about 40 cm long and 30 cm wide on long petioles. It is much more compact than selloum. In Japan it is also sold under the names 'Kukkabara' and 'Aussie'. It is widely sold in Japan as a mid-sized pot plant.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Philodendron Xanadu
The Philodendron Xanadu grows to 0.9-1.5 m tall and wide; leaves up to 40 x 30 cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Philodendron Xanadu
The ideal temperature for the Philodendron Xanadu is 18〜24℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern Brazil and Paraguay
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
0.9-1.5 m tall and wide; leaves up to 40 x 30 cm
Temperature
18〜24℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Slow-release fertiliser in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Bright indirect light indoors; outdoors it tolerates full sun to part shade.
Watering
Overwatering yellows the leaves, so water after the surface dries.
Temperature & Overwintering
Prefers about 18-24°C indoors. Keep it warm and frost-free in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Use a rich, free-draining mix and repot container plants every one to two years.
Propagation
Propagate by division.
Pests & Cautions
Watch for aphids, mealybugs, scale, thrips, spider mites and fungal leaf spots from overwatering. As an aroid it contains insoluble calcium oxalate; chewing causes intense mouth and lip pain, swelling, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing, and the sap can irritate skin. Keep it away from pets and small children and wear gloves when handling.
Philodendron Xanadu FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Philodendron Xanadu?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Philodendron Xanadu?
The ideal temperature for Philodendron Xanadu is 18〜24℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Philodendron Xanadu get?
The mature size of Philodendron Xanadu is 0.9-1.5 m tall and wide; leaves up to 40 x 30 cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Philodendron Xanadu?
Philodendron Xanadu: watering & fertilizer — Slow-release fertiliser in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Philodendron Xanadu?
The price of Philodendron Xanadu varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.Japan's variety database lists a Philodendron variety 'Aussie' (No. 2962, registered 1991), but its protection expired in 2006 and no current registration was found.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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