Philodendron xanadu care: Bushy and beautiful winterbourn

Philodendron xanadu care is quite simple, especially if you are a beginner. This fast-growing plant is fairly forgiving and can survive neglect ranging from low light to poor soil and inconsistent watering. This plant’s ease of care coupled with its shiny foliage and ease of propagation make it a great choice for beginners with a taste for the exotic.

Philodendron xanadu care guide: All about winterbourn

Today I’m covering the pretty philodendron xanadu. It belongs to the Araceae family and subgenus Meconstigma, one of three subgenera within the philodendra genus. The xanadu is one of over 450 varieties of philodendron. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and up to 5 feet wide. Unlike many other varieties of philodendron, the xanadu does not climb but rather takes on an upright, bushy appearance.

Native to Brazil, it is commonly cultivated as a landscape plant in tropical, subtropical and warm climates. Also known as Winterbourn, this tropical plant does not live up to its frigid name. Despite being low maintenance, this plant is not a good choice for pet owners as it is toxic to cats and dogs.

Philodendron xanadu light needs

The xanadu has some different lighting requirements from most other philodendron varieties. It needs more light than most other varieties in order to maintain its appearance.

If it gets too little light you may find that the stems will become longer and a bit “leggy” in search of light. If you start to notice leaves with several inches between them on the stem, then your plant likely needs more light to stay happy.

However, too much light may cause the leaves to become discolored, leaving the plant with a pale, unhealthy look. Although some yellowing is normal as the plant ages, a number of light yellow or bleached leaves may indicate that you’re giving your plant too much light. The xanadu is happiest when exposed to bright but indirect light.

For more philodendron care posts, check out my care posts on heart-leaf philodendron and philodendron micans.

How often should you water philodendron xanadu?

Like other philodendrons, the xanadu prefers moist soil but you should make sure the soil isn’t too wet. Water when the soil becomes dry 1–2 inches down. Saturate the soil completely until water drains our of the drainage hole in the bottom of the planter. Do not allow the plant to stand in water as this may cause root rot. During the winter, water less often.

Ideal humidity & temperature

As a tropical plant, philodendron xanadu prefers a humid environment, but it can still survive the level of humidity found in most homes. Although this plant can survive in the average household humidity, it does not like dry air, so make sure to keep it away from heat or AC vents.

To keep humidity up, try misting this plant often with a spray bottle to mimic a humid environment. You could also add a humidifier near the plant. The extra humidity will encourage lush growth and shiny foliage. My xanadu has been outdoors all summer, so it has been growing like a weed in the Maryland summers.

The xanadu enjoys daytime temperatures between 65- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit, with a low of about 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it the ideal houseplant (although, like I said, it can be grown outdoors during warm months or in mild climates).

What is the best soil?

This plant needs to be fertilized monthly during the spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. It thrives with regular and consistent fertilization. Make sure you do not apply fertilizer to dry soil as it may negatively impact the efficacy of the fertilizer.

Philodendron xanadu propagation

Philodendron xanadu is a patented variety meaning that it cannot be propagated for sale. However, you can propagate this plant for your personal collection. You can propagate it through division easily once the plant is large enough.

As a fast-growing plant, it will outgrow its pot fairly quickly and at this point you can repot it into a larger pot or divide it into two smaller plants. This is what I did with a bargain-bin xanadu I got. When I cleaned it up, trimmed the dead leaves, and removed it from the pot, I broke a few small pieces off.

When you break these pieces off, just make sure you get some of the root system with them. Pot them up in separate smaller pots and keep the soil a bit moist while the plant is established itself.