Xanadu
philodendron xanadu
Also known as: ["Philodendron selloum 'Xanadu'","Philodendron hope 'Xanadu'"]
Overview
A compact, clump-forming evergreen perennial with deeply lobed, glossy green leaves, native to eastern Australia.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Philodendron |
| Botanical Name: | Philodendron xanadu |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light, or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"16–29°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or when the plant becomes overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to light gradually; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy garden soil; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoid drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid placing near vents or windows; maintain stable room temperature; monitor for stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional nutrient additions.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), water or potting mix, clear plastic bag (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use a node-rich cutting; keep consistently moist; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems, yellow leaves, and overgrown sections to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut at correct angle, remove dead/damaged parts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before the main growing season.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in cold; wilting or brown leaf edges in heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate from cold drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute correctly, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the calcium oxalate crystals found in Philodendron xanadu. Ingestion can cause severe irritation and swelling of the oral cavity, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to mechanical injury and inflammation. The physiological impact can be more pronounced in cats due to their smaller size and sensitivity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Philodendron xanadu can lead to significant irritation and swelling of the oral cavity, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. This can result in mechanical injury and inflammation, causing discomfort and potential systemic effects if large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhilodendron xanadu contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling upon ingestion. These crystals are sharp and abrasive, leading to mechanical injury to the mucous membranes and digestive tract. The physiological impact includes localized inflammation and discomfort, primarily affecting the oral cavity, esophagus, and gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Philodendron xanadu toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How much light does Philodendron xanadu need?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Q: Does Philodendron xanadu require frequent watering?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing it to dry out slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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