Selling size:Well rooted plant | 2.5" Pot Included | Secure Packing
The Philodendron Xanadu, now officially classified as Thaumatophyllum xanadu, is a fantastic and relatively easy-to-care-for houseplant. It's known for its compact, bushy growth habit and deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that give it a sophisticated, tropical look.
Here is a complete guide to caring for your Philodendron Xanadu:
Light
Bright, Indirect Light is Ideal: Xanadu prefers more light than many other Philodendron varieties to maintain its dense, compact growth. A spot near a window with sheer curtains is perfect.
Tolerates Some Direct Sun: It can handle a few hours of gentle morning sun.
Avoid Direct Midday Sun: Too much harsh, direct sunlight will scorch the leaves and cause them to turn a bleached yellow color.
Low Light: It tolerates lower light, but the stems may become leggy (long and sparse) as the plant stretches to find light.
Watering
Water When Top Soil is Dry: Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Water Thoroughly: When you water, saturate the soil until water flows out of the drainage holes.
Avoid Soggy Soil: This plant is prone to root rot if it sits in water. Ensure the pot drains well and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.
Reduce in Winter: Water less frequently during the cooler, darker winter months.
Soil and Potting
Well-Draining, Rich Mix: Use a rich, airy, and well-draining potting mix.
Ideal Mix: A combination of standard indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark (or coco coir/peat moss) works well to provide both drainage and moisture retention.
Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes visibly root-bound. Choose a pot that is only one size (2 inches) larger than the current one.
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature: Xanadu thrives in warm household temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Protect it from drafts and temperatures below 55∘F (13∘C).
Humidity: As a tropical plant, it enjoys higher humidity, but it is quite tolerant of average indoor humidity.
To promote lush growth and prevent brown leaf tips, you can increase humidity with a humidifier or by placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilizing
Growing Season Only: Feed your plant with a balanced, liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Dilution: Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to prevent salt buildup and root burn.
No Fertilizer in Winter: Withhold fertilizer during the fall and winter months.
Pruning and Maintenance
Minimal Pruning: Xanadu has a naturally bushy, mounding habit, so it requires minimal pruning.
Remove Old Leaves: Prune away any yellowing, damaged, or dead leaves at the base to keep the plant tidy and direct energy to new growth.
Cleaning: Wipe the large leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust, allowing the plant to photosynthesize efficiently.
Common Problems
Yellow Leaves: Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
Brown Leaf Tips/Edges: Often caused by low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Leggy Growth: The plant needs more light. Move it to a brighter location.
Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Treat immediately with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Toxicity
The Philodendron Xanadu is toxic to humans and pets if ingested, as it contains calcium oxalate crystals. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
