Philodendron xanadu: Growing and Care Guide

The Philodendron xanadu is a popular houseplant with a unique, tropical appearance. It features deeply lobed, dark green leaves that form an attractive, dense clump, making it a great addition to any indoor space. This easy-to-grow plant is well-suited for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Philodendron xanadu care and maintenance.

About Philodendron xanadu

Philodendron xanadu, also known as Winterbourn Philodendron, is a hybrid species within the Philodendron genus. It is native to Brazil and is a compact, slow-growing plant that can reach up to 4 feet in height and width. The deeply lobed, glossy green leaves create a lush, tropical appearance, making it a perfect addition to any indoor garden or as a focal point in a room.

Common Name	Winterbourn Philodendron
Botanical Name	Philodendron xanadu
Family	Araceae
Plant Type	Shrub
Origin	South America
Maintenance	Low
Height	4-5 feet
Width	4-5 feet
Light	Bright, Indirect Light
Bloom season	Spring, Summer
Water needs	Low, Moderate
Soil	Well-Drained, Loamy
Toxicity	Toxic
Hardiness (USDA)	9-11

Philodendron xanadu Care

Philodendron xanadu is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in various indoor conditions. Proper care includes providing the right balance of light, water, humidity, and fertilizer.

Light

This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Although it can withstand lower light conditions, growth may be slower, and the leaves may lose their vibrancy. Direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf scorching.

Soil

A well-draining, peat-based potting mixture is perfect for Philodendron xanadu. You can create an appropriate blend by combining peat moss, perlite, and potting soil. This mix will ensure proper aeration, moisture retention, and nutrient balance.

Water

It prefers consistently moist soil without becoming waterlogged. Water your Philodendron when the top layer of soil starts to dry. Use a pot with drainage holes to avoid root rot caused by excess water.

Temperature

This plant thrives in typical indoor temperatures, ranging from 65°F to 80°F. Keep it away from drafts and abrupt temperature changes.

Humidity

Moderate humidity levels are preferred by Philodendron xanadu. If your indoor environment is too arid, you can raise humidity by using a humidifier, placing a water-filled tray near the plant, or misting the plant with water.

Fertilizer

Feed your Philodendron with a well-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during its growing season (spring and summer). In the fall and winter, reduce feeding to every 8-10 weeks.

Pruning

While pruning is not necessary for Philodendron xanadu, you can trim any lanky or damaged growth to maintain a compact, bushy appearance. Use clean, sharp shears for your cuts and sanitize your tools between plants to prevent disease spread.

Potting and Repotting Philodendron xanadu

Repot your Philodendron xanadu every 2-3 years, or when it gets root-bound. 

Prepare

How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

1. Gently remove the Philodendron xanadu from its current pot. If the plant is root-bound, carefully loosen the roots with your fingers.
2. Fill the new pot with enough amount of potting mix so that the top of the root ball will sit about an inch below the rim of the pot.
3. Place the Philodendron in the new pot and gently fill in around the roots with more potting mix, making sure to keep the plant at the same depth level as it was in the previous pot.
4. Press the soil around the base to eliminate air pockets and provide stability.
5. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot.

Propagation

You can propagate Philodendron xanadu through stem cuttings or division.

Stem Cuttings

1. Select a stem with at least one leaf, and get a cutting with one leaf node using clean, sharp shears.
2. Remove any lower leaves, leaving only the top two or three.
3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
4. Place in a small pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix.
5. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location with indirect light and maintain consistent moisture until roots develop (typically 4-6 weeks).
6. Once the cutting has established roots, transplant it to a larger pot and care for it as you would a mature Philodendron xanadu.

Division

1. During repotting, carefully remove the Philodendron from its pot and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with its own set of leaves and roots.
2. Plant each section in its own container with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
3. Water each division thoroughly and place them in a warm, bright location with indirect light.
4. Care for the new plants as you would a mature Philodendron xanadu.

Blooms

Philodendron xanadu is primarily grown for its lush, tropical foliage, but it can also produce inflorescences under the right conditions. Blooms are relatively rare for xanadu in indoor cultivation, as they typically require a large, mature plant and optimal environmental conditions.

Toxicity

Philodendron xanadu, like other Philodendron species, contains calcium oxalate crystals in its leaves and stems. These crystals can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract if ingested. Symptoms may include drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to difficulty breathing, but this is quite rare.

NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.

Common Pests and Problems

Philodendron xanadu is generally resistant to pests and diseases but may occasionally be affected by common houseplant pests, such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or an appropriate pesticide.

Overwatering is a death sentence, so avoid it at all costs. 

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