Philodendron xanadu vs selloum is a common question for plant lovers who want a big, leafy statement piece but aren’t sure which one fits their space. Philodendron xanadu maintains a compact, mounded shape with deeply lobed leaves, while selloum grows much larger with dramatic, split foliage that can reach several feet tall. The choice really comes down to how much room you have and the look you are going for in your home or garden.
Both of these plants are often confused because they look similar when they are young. They are both self-heading philodendrons, which means they do not climb or vine. Instead, they grow from a central crown and produce a beautiful rosette of leaves. But once they mature, the differences become very obvious. Let’s break down everything you need to know to pick the perfect one for you.
Philodendron Xanadu Vs Selloum: Key Differences
The most obvious difference is the mature size. A Xanadu is a neat, dense shrub that stays relatively low to the ground. A Selloum, on the other hand, is a giant that can take over a corner of a room or a shady spot in your yard. If you have a small apartment, a Xanadu is likely your best bet. If you have a large living room or a garden, the Selloum will give you that tropical jungle feel.
Let’s look at the specific characteristics of each plant so you can see exactly how they compare. We will look at leaf shape, growth habits, and care needs.
Size And Growth Habit
This is the biggest deciding factor for most people. The Xanadu is a slow to moderate grower that typically reaches about 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. It forms a tight, clumping mound of foliage that looks great in a decorative pot. It is perfect for tabletops, shelves, or as a low border plant in a shaded garden bed.
The Selloum, also known as Philodendron bipinnatifidum or Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, is a monster in comparison. It can grow up to 4 to 6 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide. The leaves themselves can get up to 3 feet long. It needs a lot of floor space and will quickly become the focal point of any room. It is not a plant you can easily move once it gets big.
Leaf Shape And Texture
While both have lobed leaves, the details are different. The Xanadu has leaves that are deeply lobed but the lobes are narrower and more numerous. The overall leaf shape is more elongated and the texture is slightly stiffer. The foliage is a rich, dark green and has a glossy sheen.
Selloum leaves are much broader and wider. The lobes are deeper and the splits often go almost all the way to the central vein. The leaves have a more dramatic, jagged appearance. They are also a bit softer and more drooping in texture. Mature Selloum leaves can look almost like a giant hand with fingers spread wide.
Stem Structure
You can also tell them apart by looking at the stems. The Xanadu has short, compact stems that keep the leaves clustered tightly together. This gives it that neat, bushy appearance. The stems are usually hidden by the dense foliage.
The Selloum has long, thick, woody stems that can become quite visible as the plant matures. The leaves are held on long stalks that arch outwards and downwards. This gives the plant a more open, sprawling look. The trunk of an old Selloum can look almost like a small tree trunk.
Care Requirements Compared
Both plants are easy to care for, but there are a few subtle differences in their needs. They both like bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. However, the Selloum is a bit more forgiving of lower light conditions and can tolerate a little more neglect. The Xanadu is a bit more sensitive to overwatering and needs more consistent humidity.
Light Needs
For a Xanadu, bright, indirect light is ideal. A spot near an east-facing window or a few feet away from a south or west-facing window is perfect. Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves. Too little light will cause the plant to become leggy and the leaves will lose their deep color.
The Selloum is also happy in bright, indirect light, but it can handle a bit more shade. It can even survive in medium light conditions, though it will grow slower. If you put a Selloum in a spot with a few hours of gentle morning sun, it will reward you with faster growth and larger leaves.
Watering And Soil
Both plants prefer to dry out slightly between waterings. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water. Water thoroughly until it drains out of the bottom of the pot. Never let them sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
The Xanadu is a little more sensitive to overwatering. It is best to be careful and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. The Selloum is more drought-tolerant once established. A chunky, well-aerated potting mix is great for both. You can add perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage.
Humidity And Temperature
These are tropical plants, so they love humidity. The Xanadu will appreciate a humidity level of 50% or higher. You can increase humidity with a pebble tray or a small humidifier. The Selloum is less fussy and can tolerate normal household humidity levels, though it will also benefit from a boost.
Keep both plants in a warm spot, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid placing them near cold drafts, air conditioning vents, or heaters. They will not tolerate frost and should be brought indoors if you live in a cooler climate.
Fertilizing
Feed both plants with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). You can use a 20-20-20 formula diluted to half strength every 4 to 6 weeks. The Selloum, being a bigger plant, will benefit from a slightly more regular feeding schedule. Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when growth slows down.
Choosing The Right Plant For Your Space
Now that you know the differences, how do you decide? Here is a simple guide to help you choose.
- Choose a Xanadu if you have limited floor space and want a tidy, compact plant.
- Choose a Xanadu if you want a plant for a tabletop, desk, or shelf.
- Choose a Xanadu if you want a low-maintenance plant that is easy to keep in a pot.
- Choose a Selloum if you have a large, empty corner that needs filling.
- Choose a Selloum if you want a dramatic, tropical statement piece.
- Choose a Selloum if you want to create a privacy screen or a lush garden bed in a shady area.
Potting And Repotting
When you bring your plant home, it is a good idea to check if it needs a new pot. If the roots are coming out of the drainage holes, it is time to repot. Choose a pot that is only 2 to 3 inches larger in diameter than the current one. A pot that is too large can hold too much water and cause root rot.
Repotting is best done in the spring. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh potting mix. Water it well and let it adjust to its new home. The Xanadu will need repotting every 1-2 years. The Selloum will need repotting less often, but it will eventually need a very large, heavy pot to support its size.
Common Problems And Solutions
Even easy plants can have issues. Here are some common problems you might run into with either plant.
- Yellowing leaves: This is usually a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out more between waterings and make sure the pot has good drainage.
- Brown, crispy leaf tips: This is often caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity and water more regularly.
- Pests: Spider mites and mealybugs can be a problem. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
- Leggy growth: This means the plant is not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter location.
Propagation Tips
Both plants can be propagated by division. This is best done in the spring when you are repotting. Carefully separate the plant into smaller clumps, making sure each clump has some roots attached. Pot each division in its own container and keep it moist and warm until it establishes.
The Selloum can also be propagated from stem cuttings, but division is the easiest and most reliable method for both. This is a great way to get more plants for free or to share with friends. It is a simple process that works well if you are patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask about these two beautiful plants.
Is Philodendron Xanadu the same as Selloum?
No, they are different plants. While they look similar when young, the Xanadu is a compact, smaller plant, while the Selloum grows very large. They are both self-heading philodendrons but have different mature sizes and leaf shapes.
Which is easier to care for, Xanadu or Selloum?
Both are relatively easy, but the Selloum is a bit more forgiving. It can tolerate lower light and is more drought-tolerant. The Xanadu is a little more sensitive to overwatering and needs more consistent humidity to look its best.
Can I grow a Selloum indoors?
Yes, you can grow a Selloum indoors, but it needs a lot of space. It can grow to be 6 feet tall and wide, so you need a large room with high ceilings. It makes a stunning indoor tree-like plant if you have the room.
How fast do these plants grow?
The Xanadu is a slow to moderate grower. The Selloum is a moderate to fast grower, especially when it is young. Once the Selloum gets established, it can put out new leaves quite quickly, especially during the growing season.
Are these plants toxic to pets?
Yes, both Xanadu and Selloum are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting. It is best to keep them out of reach of curious pets.
Final Thoughts On These Tropical Beauties
Choosing between a philodendron xanadu vs selloum is really about space and preference. If you want a manageable, elegant plant that fits neatly into a smaller home, go with the Xanadu. It is a beautiful, low-maintenance option that looks great in any room. If you have the space and want a bold, dramatic tropical centerpiece, the Selloum is an incredible choice. It will reward you with massive, stunning foliage that makes a real statement.
Both plants are wonderful additions to any plant collection. They are both easy to grow, forgiving, and bring a lush, green vibe to your space. You really cant go wrong with either one. Just make sure you understand the size difference before you commit, so you can give your plant the room it needs to thrive. Take your time, look at pictures, and imagine the plant in your space. That will help you make the right choice for your home and your lifestyle.