Philodendron Xanadu Care Guide

The Perfect Low-Maintenance Indoor Plant for Florida Humidity

Looking for a low-maintenance plant that won’t outgrow your space and thrives in Florida’s humidity? Philodendron Xanadu (also known as Philodendron Winterbourn) is your perfect match. With its rich green, deeply lobed leaves and bushy form, it brings tropical elegance indoors or out—without the hassle of high maintenance.

Whether you’re adding one to your living room, patio, or shady garden bed, this non-climbing philodendron is compact, attractive, and incredibly forgiving.

Do Philodendron plants like full sun?

Short answer: Not direct sun.

Philodendron Xanadu thrives in medium to low indirect light—much like its natural home under the canopy of tropical rainforests.

Ideal light levels: 2,500–10,000 lux
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves
Best placement: Near an east or north-facing window, or shaded outdoor space

💡 Too much sun = leaf burn. Too little sun = slower growth. Indirect light is the sweet spot.

How often should you water Philodendron Xanadu?

Xanadu is tolerant of watering mistakes, but prefers slightly moist (not soggy) soil.

Watering Tips:

Allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry before watering again
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months

🚫 Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot—this plant prefers to dry out slightly between drinks.

Water Quality Warning:

Philodendron Xanadu is sensitive to fluoride and chlorine.
Always use:⚠️

Distilled water
Rainwater
Filtered water (if tap water is heavily treated)

Do Philodendron Xanadu plants grow fast?

Xanadu grows moderately fast and may need repotting once a year.

Fertilizing Tips:

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 months
Avoid over-fertilizing—too much can damage roots or push leggy growth
Rich soil + occasional feeding = bushier, healthier plant

Can Philodendron Xanadu Grow Indoors or Outdoors?

Both! But leaf shape and color vary by environment.

Indoors:

More compact and darker foliage
Ideal for corners with medium light
Thrives in Florida homes due to high humidity

Outdoors:

Larger, more lobed leaves
Perfect for understory planting beneath taller shrubs or trees
Requires shade or dappled light outdoors

💡 Place your Xanadu where other plants would struggle with low light—this one will thrive there.

Where did Philodendron Xanadu come from?

Philodendron Xanadu is native to Brazil but has become popular worldwide due to its resilience and beauty.

Botanical History Highlights:

Formerly known as Philodendron Winterbourn
Renamed “Xanadu” in 1988 by House Plants of Australia
Reclassified in 2018 to the new genus Thaumatophyllum (meaning “Wonder Leaf”)
There are now 21 species in this genus—and counting

Is Philodendron Xanadu poisonous?

Yes — like all philodendrons, Xanadu is toxic if ingested.

It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause:

Burning or swelling in the mouth
Skin irritation upon contact
Digestive discomfort if eaten by pets or children

🧤 Always wear gloves when pruning or repotting.
🐾 Keep out of reach of pets and small children.

As North Carolina State University puts it:

“Philodendron Xanadu™’ Winterbourn’ contains a poisonous compound known as calcium oxalate. This compound is released when the leaves and stems are crushed. This compound may also cause skin irritation when the plant is handled. Pets and small children should avoid contact with this plant. To prevent contact dermatitis, wearing gloves is recommended when pruning or repotting.”

How to Prune and Propagate Xanadu

Trim to maintain size or remove leggy stems
Propagation is easy:
- Divide clumps when repotting
- Plant divisions in fresh soil and keep moist
Prune yellow or damaged leaves at the base of the stem

Where can I buy Philodendron Xanadu?

Shop Philodendron online, right now!

Ready to bring home this lush, easy-care plant?

Visit our nursery at Troy Tropics and turn your backyard into an outdoor paradise. Our team of greenery experts can help you decide on the best plants for your home. Learn more about our Landscaping Services.

Philodendron Xanadu Care

Is Philodendron Xanadu a climber?

No, it’s a self-heading plant that grows outward, not upward.

How big does Philodendron Xanadu get?

Indoors: ~2–3 feet tall and wide
Outdoors: Up to 4 feet tall with a broader spread

Can it survive low humidity?

Yes, but thrives in humidity, especially in Florida. Mist occasionally indoors.

How often should I repot?

Every 12–18 months or when roots begin to crowd the pot.

Add a Touch of Tropical Elegance to Your Home

Philodendron Xanadu is the perfect blend of beauty and resilience. It thrives in Florida’s humid climate, tolerates low light, and adds instant green sophistication to any space.

👉 Stop by Troy’s Tropics Nursery to bring one home today.
Your tropical oasis awaits.