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Plant Profiles / Philodendron 'Xanadu'
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Philodendron 'Xanadu'
Thaumatophyllum xanadu (formerly Philodendron) · Xanadu, winterbourn
A compact, clumping philodendron with deeply lobed glossy leaves. A favourite for tropical-look gardens and lush indoor pots.
Bright indirect to part shadeLight
WeeklyWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Bright light without harsh afternoon sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Keep lightly moist.
Humidity
Average to high
LowHigh
Likes humidity.
Temperature
10–35°C (50–95°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Moderate, clumping
SlowFast
Grows 1 m tall and 1.5 m wide.
Soil
Rich, free-draining
LeanRich
Quality potting mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly, spring–summer
RarelyOften
Balanced liquid fertiliser.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Contains calcium oxalate crystals.
About this plant
Native to Brazil, 'Xanadu' forms a dense, self-supporting mound rather than climbing. It's tough in shade and heat, and works equally well indoors and on sheltered balconies.
Best spots
Shaded balconies, courtyards, tropical gardens, entryways and bright indoor spaces.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Thaumatophyllum xanadu (formerly Philodendron) |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | Brazil |
| Plant type | Evergreen perennial |
| Mature size | 1 m × 1.5 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Deeply lobed glossy leaves |
| Flowers | Rare spathes |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Fertilise
Divide
Active growthFertiliseDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering or too much sun. |
| Brown patches | Sunburn. |
| Leggy growth | Not enough light. |
| Brown tips | Dry air. |
| Slow growth | Cold. |
Common questions
Does it climb?
No, it forms a clump.
Can it grow outside?
Yes, in shade in frost-free areas.
Is it toxic?
Yes.
Why the name change?
It's now classified as Thaumatophyllum.
