Tree Philodendrons: Spectacular Tropical Foliage for Landscape and Indoor Culture

Among the most impressive members of the genus Philodendron, tree philodendrons (Meconostigma group) produce thick, trunk-like stems and cord-like aerial roots that anchor to structures or the ground. While stunning in tropical landscapes, their size can challenge indoor growers.

The Classic "Selloum"

The most familiar tree philodendron, commonly sold as "Philodendron selloum," is botanically Philodendron bipinnatifidum. Highly variable in leaf shape, size, and growth habit, specimens in South Florida landscapes exceed 5 feet tall with equal spread. Commercial plants are likely hybrids rather than true species, given their variability. Their bold, tropical appearance has made them enduring favorites for decades.

Diversity Within the Group

With few exceptions, Meconostigma philodendrons display green foliage—red-leaved forms remain undocumented in cultivation. Leaf morphology varies dramatically: P. speciosum has entire blades; P. bipinnatifidum types range from shallow to deeply lobed; P. stenolobum bears long, narrow, dark green leaves on elongated petioles; P. goeldii resembles Schefflera with palmately compound leaves. The popular compact cultivar 'Xanadu' develops miniature versions of the characteristic trunk.

P. mello-barretoanum stands out with jaggedly pinnate leaves and heavily armored trunks bearing actual thorns—cutting them requires a pruning saw and leather gloves. Both this species and P. goeldii are more cold-sensitive than P. bipinnatifidum, often requiring greenhouse culture outside tropical zones.

Hybridizing for Improved Indoor Performance

While P. bipinnatifidum is easy to grow, it becomes leggy indoors with small leaves on long petioles. Hybridizing with compact species like P. goeldii and P. stenolobum has produced superior indoor candidates. Notable hybrids include P. bipinnatifidum × P. goeldii ("African Fantasy") and P. bipinnatifidum × P. stenolobum, combining manageable size with dramatic foliage.

Image credits: LariAnn Garner and Public Domain