Tree Philodendron
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Tree philodendron is a bold tropical foliage plant from South America with large, deeply lobed, glossy leaves that form a sprawling, trunk-forming clump as it matures.
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Water
- When top inch of soil dries
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
Tree philodendron is a dramatic foliage plant grown for its huge, deeply cut leaves that radiate from a central crown. Long classified as Philodendron bipinnatifidum (and sold as 'Selloum'), it has been reclassified into the genus Thaumatophyllum.
Native to South America, it develops a thick, woody-looking trunk over time and can spread several feet wide, making it a striking statement plant indoors and a lush tropical accent in warm gardens.
How to identify it
Recognize it by:
- Leaves: very large, glossy, deeply pinnately lobed (split), heart-shaped overall, up to 3 ft long
- Habit: spreading rosette that forms a stout, scarred trunk with age
- Size: can reach 5-6 ft tall and equally wide
- Petioles: long, sturdy leaf stalks
- vs. Monstera: lobes are fully cut to the midrib rather than holes within the leaf
Care & growing
Light: Bright indirect light; tolerates some direct morning sun and moderate shade.
Water: Water when the top inch of soil dries, keeping it lightly moist in summer; reduce in winter.
Soil: Rich, well-draining potting mix.
Temperature: 65-85F; keep above 55F.
Feeding: Balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season for big, healthy leaves.
Propagation: From offsets, stem cuttings, or seed; remove rooted offshoots at the base.
Habitat & origin
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, where it grows in warm, humid forest understory and edges.
It is widely grown as a houseplant and, in tropical and subtropical climates, as a robust landscape plant prized for its bold foliage.
Frequently asked questions
Is tree philodendron the same as a Monstera?
No. Both have large cut leaves, but tree philodendron's lobes are split to the edge of the leaf, while Monstera has holes within the leaf surface.
How big does it get?
Indoors it can reach 5-6 ft tall and wide over time, forming a short trunk; give it plenty of space.
Why is it called Selloum if the name changed?
It was long sold as Philodendron 'Selloum' but botanists reclassified it into the genus Thaumatophyllum; the old trade name persists.
Tree Philodendron guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Tree Philodendron.
Tree Philodendron identified by the community
Real specimens identified with Plant Identifier.
