Philodendron Xanadu

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.