Lacy Tree Philodendron

Lacy Tree Philodendron key facts

Growing Difficulty

Beginner-friendly

Lifespan

Perennial (long-lived)

Size

1.2-3 m tall and 1.8-3 m wide in containers; leaves can reach 1.5 m

Watering

Slow-release fertiliser in the growing season

Light & Placement

Prefers high light but tolerates low light. Low light and overwatering produce smaller leaves with fewer lobes. Strong summer sun can scorch.

Watering

Likes moisture but rots if waterlogged, and does not tolerate drought; water well when the surface dries.

Temperature & Overwintering

Bring indoors before temperatures drop below about 16°C. It survives winter if kept frost-free and is relatively cold-tolerant for a philodendron.

Soil & Repotting

Use an organically rich, free-draining mix. It is sensitive to salt build-up, so flush the pot through from time to time.

Propagation

Propagate from seed or trunk cuttings.

Pests & Cautions

Aphids, mealybugs, scale, thrips and spider mites are occasional problems. 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.

About Lacy Tree Philodendron

Philodendron Selloum is a large houseplant with deeply lobed glossy leaves and thick aerial roots. Easy to grow even for beginners, it reaches 1.2 to 3 meters tall in a pot.

7 things to know before growing Lacy Tree Philodendron

1. 1Bright indirect light

   This plant thrives in bright, indirect light rather than direct sun, which can scorch its leaves. A spot near a curtained window works well. Consistent bright light year-round keeps growth full and healthy.

2. 2Water when soil dries

   Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, but only once the top layer of soil has dried out. Keeping the soil constantly wet can lead to root rot, so let it dry between waterings. Empty any water left in the saucer.

3. 3Use well-draining soil

   A general houseplant potting mix amended with perlite for extra drainage suits its thick root system well. Good aeration helps the roots develop properly. Adding drainage material at the bottom of the pot also helps.

4. 4Repot when root-bound

   Because it grows quickly and develops thick roots, plan to repot into a slightly larger pot every one to two years. Roots emerging from the drainage holes are a sign it's time. Spring to early summer is the best window, when the plant is actively growing.

5. 5Aerial roots are natural

   The thick aerial roots that emerge from the stem are a natural feature of this variety and don't need to be removed. If they grow long and look untidy, you can gently guide them toward the soil or a stake to tidy the shape. They're harmless to touch.

6. 6Reduce water in winter

   Growth slows in winter, so let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings during this period. It's relatively cold-tolerant for a philodendron, but never expose it to frost, and bring it indoors once temperatures fall below about 16°C. Keep it away from drafty windows or direct air-conditioning airflow.

7. 7Choosing a healthy plant

   When choosing a plant, look for leaves with deep lobes and a glossy sheen, with few yellowing or damaged ones. A sturdy, firmly rooted stem is another good sign. Healthy-looking aerial roots often indicate the plant will continue growing well.

Frequently asked questions about Lacy Tree Philodendron

Q.How big does Philodendron Selloum grow?

A.In a pot, it typically reaches 1.2 to 3 meters in height. Its leaves are large too, sometimes growing up to 1.5 meters long. It's worth planning for its eventual size when choosing a spot for it.

Q.Is it suitable for beginners?

A.Yes, it's a hardy, easy-care plant generally considered suitable for beginners. As long as you get the basics of watering and bright light right, it's unlikely to give you serious trouble.

Q.Should I cut off the thick aerial roots?

A.Aerial roots are a natural feature of this variety, so there's no need to remove them. If they bother you visually, you can guide them toward a stake or gently direct them into the soil instead of pulling them off.

Q.When and how often should I repot it?

A.Spring through early summer, while it's actively growing, is the best time. Since it grows quickly, repotting into a slightly larger pot every one to two years, once roots appear at the drainage holes, works well.

Q.What should I watch out for in winter?

A.Growth slows down, so water a little less often and let the soil dry out more between waterings. It's fairly cold-tolerant for a philodendron but can't take frost, so bring it indoors once temperatures drop below about 16°C and keep it away from chilly windows and direct air-conditioning airflow.

Handy Growing Tools for Lacy Tree Philodendron

Learn more about Lacy Tree Philodendron in the encyclopedia

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