The Philodendron selloum goes by various names, so you may recognize this leafy beauty but know it as one of its aliases. The foliage is spectacular and sets this plant apart. Learn more about the Philodendron selloum, this plant’s true identity, and proper Philodendron care.
All About the Selloum
The selloum is formally known as P. selloum or Philodendron bipinnatifidum and is a member of the Aracae family. This plant grows in the tropical rainforests of South America. The selloum is a split-leaf Philodendron, also known as a tree Philodendron, with glossy green foliage. The standout feature of the selloum is the deeply lobed leaves with a slight ruffle for added dimension.
The split-leaf foliage is impressive, but this plant can grow large. Plants can reach 5 feet tall, and a single leaf on a mature plant can reach several feet wide. The stems become woody with age and develop eye-shaped scars as leaves naturally drop, giving the thick stems a mesmerizing pattern. The selloum sends out thick, rope-like aerial roots that, in nature, anchor the plant like guidewires.
Even with the best care and conditions, houseplants tend not to get excessively big. The plant must be grown outdoors in a warm climate to reach monster-size proportions.
Philodendron Bipinnatifidum versus Philodendron Selloum
The selloum has a bit of an identity crisis. The Philodendron selloum and Philodendron bipinnatifidum were initially two plants throught to be separate and different. At some point, it was determined that the selloum and bipinnatifidum are actually the same. Sometimes, you’ll see a plant labeled as a Philodendron selloum bipinnatifidum or just as a selloum or bipinnatifidum. The nickname Hope may be part of the mix, so the names Philodendron Hope or Hope selloum also turn up, but they’re all the same thing.
To further complicate matters, several large Philodendrons were reclassified as part of the Thaumatophyllum genus several years ago. DNA testing revealed the true identity of these plants. The new name, Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, has yet to catch on. You may see plants you thought were Philodendrons labeled as Thaumatophyllum because that’s what they are now. The Philodendron xanadu was also reclassified and is now Thaumatophyllum xanadu.
Selloum Light Needs
Bright indirect sunlight is a must-have for the leafy selloum. Rotate the pot so each side gets to bask in indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves, so if you move your houseplant to an outdoor area for the summer, make the transition into direct sunlight slow and deliberate.
Philodendron Hope Selloum Care
The Philodendron selloum has typical care needs as other Philodendron varieties. Aim for humidity at 60% or higher, although this plant can tolerate average humidity. Rinse the leaves to remove dust so the foliage looks stunning and glossy and can more readily soak up sunlight.
Philodendron Selloum Fertilizer
Fertilizer is helpful for most plants, but large plants like the Philodendron Hope need a nutritional boost to thrive. Monthly applications of balanced fertilizer help the selloum push out new growth and reach its full potential.
Monitor the roots and growth rate and repot when necessary. Plan to repot your Philodendron selloum every two years. Well-cared-for young plants may need an upgrade in a year and a half. Make sure to use a fertile and well-drained potting mix when repotting. On years when the plant doesn’t get an upgrade, topdress the soil with worm castings to replenish the nutritional content of the potting mix.
Pruning Tips for Selloum Philodendron
Lower leaves naturally die with age, so don’t be alarmed if the occasional leaf falls away. Routinely prune the plant to remove dead or dying growth. Preemptively remove one or two bottommost leaves and place them in a water-filled vase. The cut leaves can live in water for months, adding leafy charm and a Jurassic vibe to a desk, tabletop, or any spot needing greenery.
Philodendron Selloum Styling Tips
The Philodendron selloum is a large plant that needs room to grow and spread its leaves. A big, open room with south-facing windows is a good choice, but don’t shy away from this leafy beauty if your home is more cozy than palatial.
The key to styling a space with a large plant is to match the scale and avoid overwhelming the area. Place the plant near a couch, sectional, or oversized chair. Avoid locating the plant next to a single chair, especially if it is petite in size. Opt for large framed prints on nearby walls and hang floor-length curtains in the room to give the illusion of large windows that will better match the scale of the plant.
Even though current trends are shifting toward maximalism, avoid overdoing it. Scale back on accessories and let the plant stand out.
Philodendron Selloum Care Tips
A moss pole or trellis may be necessary for a large climbing plant. The Philodendron selloum will use its aerial roots to hold on and lift itself as it grows. Using support can keep the plant more contained and help it grow upright instead of wide, which can be helpful depending on your space.