Joe FredrickAre you torn between adding a Philodendron Xanadu or a Selloum to your indoor garden? Both of these stunning plants bring a touch of the tropics to any home, but they have unique characteristics and care requirements. As an experienced plant enthusiast living in the United States, I’ve spent over a decade nurturing various Philodendron species. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the world of Philodendron Xanadu vs Selloum, comparing their growth habits, care needs, and aesthetic appeal. Ready to find the perfect plant for your space? Let’s get started! And don’t forget to check out our shop at RealJef for all your houseplant equipment needs.
Philodendron Xanadu vs Selloum: Key Differences
Appearance
Philodendron Xanadu
- Leaf Shape: Xanadu leaves are deeply lobed and have a leathery texture. They typically grow in a compact, bushy form.
- Color: The leaves are a vibrant, glossy green that adds a fresh, lively touch to any room.
- Size: This plant generally grows up to 2-4 feet tall and wide, making it ideal for smaller spaces.
- Leaf Shape: Selloum, also known as Tree Philodendron, has large, deeply lobed leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in length.
- Color: The leaves are dark green and can develop a glossy finish as they mature.
- Size: Selloum can grow quite large, up to 6 feet tall and equally wide, often requiring more space to thrive.
Growth Habit
Philodendron Xanadu
- Compact Growth: Xanadu grows in a more compact, rounded shape, making it a great choice for indoor settings where space is limited.
- Bushy Form: This plant maintains a tidy, bushy appearance without much intervention, perfect for low-maintenance gardening.
Philodendron Selloum
- Expansive Growth: Selloum has a more expansive growth habit, with large leaves spreading outwards, giving it a grand, tropical feel.
- Tree-Like Form: Over time, Selloum can develop a trunk-like base, adding to its tree-like appearance.
Care Requirements
Philodendron Xanadu
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix is essential to prevent waterlogging.
Philodendron Selloum
- Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can also adapt to lower light areas.
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry.
- Soil: A well-draining, rich potting mix works best for Selloum.
Table: Plant Care Guide
| Aspect | Philodendron Xanadu | Philodendron Selloum |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light | Bright, indirect light |
| Water | Water when the top inch is dry | Keep soil consistently moist |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix | Well-draining, rich potting mix |
| Size | 2-4 feet tall and wide | Up to 6 feet tall and wide |
| Leaf Shape | Deeply lobed, leathery leaves | Large, deeply lobed leaves |
| Growth | Compact, bushy form | Expansive, tree-like form |
Light Requirements
Philodendron Xanadu
- Xanadu enjoys bright, indirect light. It can handle lower light conditions but won’t grow as vigorously.
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Philodendron Selloum
- Selloum thrives in bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate lower light levels, it prefers brighter conditions for optimal growth.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Watering Needs
Philodendron Xanadu
- Water Xanadu when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has good drainage.
- During winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows down.
Philodendron Selloum
- Selloum prefers consistently moist soil. Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry, and ensure the pot drains well to avoid waterlogging.
- In winter, reduce watering but maintain slight soil moisture.
Soil Preferences
Philodendron Xanadu
- A well-draining potting mix is essential. You can use a mix of peat, perlite, and compost to ensure good drainage and nutrient retention.
Philodendron Selloum
- Selloum does well in a rich, well-draining potting mix. Adding some compost or organic matter can enhance soil fertility and support its robust growth.
Fertilization
Philodendron Xanadu
- Fertilize Xanadu during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to nutrient burn.
Philodendron Selloum
- Selloum benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks.
- Reduce fertilization in the fall and winter months.
Pest and Disease Management
Philodendron Xanadu
- Common pests include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
- Prevent diseases by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Philodendron Selloum
- Watch out for pests like scale insects and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Keep the plant healthy by maintaining proper watering practices and avoiding excessive humidity.
Propagation Methods
Philodendron Xanadu
- Xanadu can be propagated through division or stem cuttings. Division is best done during repotting, while stem cuttings should be rooted in water or a moist potting mix.
Philodendron Selloum
- Selloum is commonly propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. Both methods can be effective, but air layering tends to produce stronger, more established plants.
FAQs
What are the main differences between Philodendron Xanadu vs Selloum?
Philodendron Xanadu has a more compact, bushy growth habit with smaller, leathery leaves, while Philodendron Selloum grows larger, with expansive, deeply lobed leaves and a tree-like form.
Which plant is easier to care for, Philodendron Xanadu or Selloum?
Both plants are relatively easy to care for, but Xanadu may be slightly lower maintenance due to its compact size and lower water needs.
Can Philodendron Xanadu and Selloum be grown outdoors?
Yes, both can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. Xanadu is more suited to smaller garden spaces, while Selloum needs more room to spread out.
Do Philodendron Xanadu and Selloum require the same type of soil?
Both plants prefer well-draining soil, but Selloum benefits from a richer potting mix with more organic matter.
How often should I water Philodendron Xanadu vs Selloum?
Water Xanadu when the top inch of soil is dry and Selloum when the top 2 inches are dry. Adjust watering frequency based on the season and indoor conditions.
Are Philodendron Xanadu and Selloum toxic to pets?
Yes, both plants are toxic if ingested by pets. Keep them out of reach of curious cats and dogs.
Conclusion
Choosing between Philodendron Xanadu and Selloum depends on your space and care preferences. Xanadu is perfect for smaller areas and those looking for a compact, low-maintenance plant, while Selloum offers a dramatic, tropical presence for larger spaces. No matter which you choose, both plants bring beauty and greenery into your home. And remember, for all your houseplant equipment needs, visit RealJef. Happy planting!
Joe Fredrick
