Landscape Showroom / RLC Selection Guide

Selloum Philodendron for Tampa Landscapes

Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum

Also called: Philodendron selloum; split-leaf philodendron; tree philodendron

Selloum creates a bold tropical focal point with deeply divided leaves. It belongs in a broad bed where the leaves can spread, not in a narrow gap that only fits the nursery pot.

Plan this with RLC →

AI-generated illustration. Actual plants and materials vary; confirm the supplied selection with RLC.

At a glance

Where it fits

Use near a patio view or under a light canopy where the large leaves can be appreciated. Leave room between the plant and a pool screen, walkway or window. Pair with finer foliage to show the contrast without surrounding it with competing giant leaves.

Sizes and varieties

Selloum is much larger than Xanadu. Both are sold under older philodendron names, but they are not interchangeable by size. Inspect the label and ask about mature spread before using it as a foundation plant.

Care through the seasons

Remove damaged leaves cleanly at their bases and protect developing foliage. Check moisture during establishment and do not assume shade means irrigation is unnecessary. After cold injury, wait to see which stems and growing points remain healthy.

Placement mistakes to avoid

Avoid narrow walkways and small beds. Sap can irritate, and foliage should be kept away from children or pets that chew plants.

Buying size is not finished size

3-, 7- and larger gallon plants; compare leaf span. These are nursery formats to ask about, not a live stock list or a guaranteed height. Compare the actual canopy, root ball, cultivar and overall condition. Leave room for the mature plant, even when a new installation initially looks open.

Planning the installation

Measure the usable bed, including space around windows, paths, utilities and irrigation. Show RLC both a wide view and the details of the existing ground. Discuss removals, preparation, access and watering before choosing a quantity. A larger plant may give more presence on day one, but the right location and establishment care still determine the result.

What affects cost?

Relative starting plant tier: $$. A tier compares material categories; it is not an installed price. Nursery size, fullness, quantity, delivery access, removals and irrigation changes can alter the quote. Compare the whole scope, including the selected variety and size.

Common question

Can I keep it small by cutting the leaves?

Repeatedly cutting healthy leaves defeats the plant’s design value. Choose a smaller species or cultivar when the bed cannot accommodate its mature spread.

Reference: Plant or product information. Planning guidance reviewed September 2026. Availability and installed prices are confirmed by quote.