Pruning and Propagating Non-Climbing Philodendron (Philodendron selloum / bipinnatifidum)

Yes, You Can Prune It—Hard

Your "self-heading" philodendron (likely Philodendron bipinnatifidum, formerly selloum) can be cut back aggressively without killing it. Remove any stems/leaves encroaching on your living space. Cut at the base of the petiole (leaf stem) or, for size reduction, cut the main stem—it will resprout from nodes below the cut.

Propagation Bonus: Free Plants

Those cut stems root easily:

1. Dip cut end in rooting hormone (powder/gel).
2. Insert into moist potting mix (1:1 peat:perlite).
3. Cover with plastic bag (vent daily) to maintain humidity.
4. Roots in 3–4 weeks. Then treat as mature plant.

Care for a Fuller Plant

• Light: Bright indirect (east/west window). More light = more compact growth.
• Water: Let top 1–2 inches dry between waterings.
• Fertilize: Monthly at half strength spring–fall.
• Rotate: Quarter-turn weekly for even growth.

When to Prune

Early spring is ideal, but you can trim any time. Avoid heavy pruning in winter when growth is slow.

Don't be timid—this plant is tough. A good haircut now means a denser, more manageable specimen in a few months. And you'll have extras to share!