Philodendrons are a popular genus of tropical plants, known for their attractive foliage and ease of care. Two of the most commonly recognized Philodendrons are the Selloum and Xanadu varieties. However, did you know that they have recently been reclassified into a new genus called Thaumatophyllum? In this blog post, we will explore the differences between Philodendron Selloum and Xanadu, now known as Thaumatophyllum Selloum and Thaumatophyllum xanadu, respectively.
Size and Growth Habits
One of the most noticeable differences between these two plants is their size and growth habits. Thaumatophyllum Selloum, also known as the Split-leaf Philodendron, is a large plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. It has deeply lobed, dark green leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in length. Thaumatophyllum xanadu, on the other hand, is a smaller plant that typically grows to around 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are smaller and more compact than the Selloum, with 15-20 lobes.
Light and Water Requirements
Both Thaumatophyllum Selloum and xanadu thrive in similar light conditions, preferring bright, indirect light. They can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause their leaves to burn. When it comes to watering, it’s important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s best to err on the side of underwatering.
Indoor vs Outdoor Growing
While both Thaumatophyllum Selloum and xanadu can be grown indoors, they also do well outdoors in warmer climates. Thaumatophyllum Selloum is often used as a landscaping plant, adding tropical flair to gardens and outdoor spaces. In contrast, Thaumatophyllum xanadu is a popular choice for indoor plants, with its smaller size and attractive foliage making it a great choice for apartments and smaller homes.
While Thaumatophyllum Selloum and xanadu may look similar, they have distinct differences in size, growth habits, and preferred growing conditions. Whichever plant you choose to add to your collection, both are sure to add a touch of tropical elegance to your home or garden.
Is Philodendron Selloum Gold Rare?
Philodendron Selloum Gold is considered a rare indoor plant. While the standard Philodendron Selloum is more commonly found in nurseries and plant shops, the golden variety is a newer and more unique cultivar. It is characterized by its large, curly, and neon-green leaves that are splashed with yellow-gold variegation, making it a striking addition to any indoor plant collection. Due to its rarity, it may be more difficult to find and can be more expensive than other philodendron varieties.
Maximum Size of a Xanadu Philodendron
A Xanadu philodendron, scientifically known as Thaumatophyllum xanadu, is a tropical plant with large and dark green foliage that can grow up to 5 feet tall and 7 feet wide in outdoor settings. The leaves of this plant have 15-20 lobes, which gives them a unique and attractive appearance. Xanadu philodendrons are known for their bushy and full growth, making them an excellent choice for creating a lush and tropical ambiance in both indoor and outdoor spaces. With proper care and maintenance, this plant can reach its full growth potential and become a stunning addition to your collection of greenery.
The Rarest Philodendron Species
The rarest Philodendron variety is the Philodendron Spiritus Sancti. This endangered species is only found in a handful of locations in the wild, making it incredibly rare and highly sought after by collectors. Due to its scarcity, it is also one of the most expensive Philodendron varieties available. The Philodendron Spiritus Sancti is known for its unique foliaged beauty, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. However, due to its endangered status, it is crucial that efforts are made to protect and conserve this rare plant species.
Conclusion
While Philodendron Selloum and Xanadu may have similar appearances and growth habits, they are actually two distinct plants from different genera. As of 2018, both plants were reclassified into the Thaumatophyllum genus. Xanadu is a big-leaf tropical plant that can grow up to 5 feet tall and 7 feet wide, while Philodendron Selloum Golden is a rare indoor plant with big, curly, neon-green leaves. Both plants can tolerate a range of lighting conditions and are relatively easy to care for. Ultimately, the choice between these two plants depends on personal preference and the specific growing conditions available.
