19 Disadvantages of Philodendron Selloums You Should Know About

Philodendron Selloum, also charmingly known as the Tree Philodendron, is a beloved choice for plant lovers. Its dramatic, deeply lobed leaves bring a touch of the tropics indoors. But like most good things, it comes with its share of downsides. While these plants are often a delightful addition to any home, they do have some potential drawbacks that are worth keeping in mind.

So, what's the catch? In this article, we'll explore the 19 disadvantages of Philodendron Selloums that you might not have considered. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a budding plant parent, these insights will help you decide if this is the right plant for your home.

1. Space Hog

Philodendron Selloums are not shy when it comes to size. These plants can grow quite large, with leaves reaching up to 5 feet in length and plants spreading out several feet wide. If you live in a cozy apartment or have limited room, accommodating such a space-hungry plant can be a real challenge.

As they grow, Selloums can easily dominate a room, overshadowing other pieces of furniture or plants. If you're considering adding one to your home, make sure you have the space to let it sprawl. Otherwise, you might find yourself needing to rearrange more than you bargained for.

2. High Humidity Needs

These plants are native to tropical climates where humidity levels are naturally high. In more arid environments or during the dry winter months, maintaining the humidity levels they crave can be challenging. Without adequate humidity, you might notice browning tips on the leaves, signaling that your plant isn't entirely happy.

One way to combat this is by using a humidifier or placing a humidity tray near your plant. However, this requires additional effort and equipment, which might not be ideal for everyone.

3. Toxicity to Pets

If you have pets that are prone to nibbling on your greenery, the Philodendron Selloum might not be the safest choice. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats and dogs. Ingesting parts of the plant can lead to irritation and discomfort for your furry friends.

For pet owners, this means either keeping the plant out of reach or choosing a more pet-friendly option. It's always sad to pass on a beautiful plant, but the safety of our pets comes first.

4. Heavy Pruning Requirements

Pruning is a must if you want to keep your Philodendron Selloum looking tidy and healthy. As they grow, their lower leaves naturally yellow and die off, which can make the plant look a bit ragged if not regularly trimmed. This means you’ll need to keep up with cutting back dead or unsightly leaves to maintain their appearance.

While some plant lovers enjoy the regular upkeep, others might find it a bit of a chore. Regular pruning can also be a bit messy, as the plant's sap can be sticky and difficult to clean up.

5. Susceptible to Pests

Unfortunately, Philodendron Selloums can be a magnet for common houseplant pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Once these critters find a home on your plant, they can be tough to evict without consistent treatment.

Dealing with pests often involves a combination of physical removal, insecticidal soap, or even neem oil treatments. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to keep your plant pest-free, which can be more work than some plant people are willing to put in.

6. Sensitive to Overwatering

Like many houseplants, Philodendron Selloums are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. This means finding the right watering schedule is crucial, which can take some trial and error. Over time, you’ll get a feel for when your plant needs a drink, but beginners might struggle initially.

To avoid waterlogged roots, always use well-draining soil and ensure your pot has drainage holes. Letting the top inch or so of soil dry out before watering again can also help keep your plant healthy.

7. Not a Fast Grower

If you're looking for a plant that quickly fills out its space, you might be disappointed with the Philodendron Selloum. While they can grow large, they do so at a slower pace compared to some other houseplants. Patience is key, and it might take a few years for your plant to reach its full potential.

For those who enjoy watching rapid transformations, this slow and steady approach might feel a bit underwhelming. However, for others, the gradual growth can be a rewarding part of the journey.

8. Requires Adequate Light

Philodendron Selloums thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while dim conditions can stunt their growth. Finding the perfect spot in your home can be a bit of a balancing act.

If your home lacks natural light, you might need to invest in some grow lights to keep your plant happy. This can add to the initial cost and ongoing maintenance of plant care, which might not suit everyone’s lifestyle.

9. Messy Leaf Shedding

As Philodendron Selloums grow, they naturally shed their older leaves, which can lead to a somewhat messy appearance, especially if not cleaned up regularly. These fallen leaves can accumulate around the base of the plant, creating a breeding ground for pests and diseases if not promptly removed.

For tidy homes, this constant shedding can be a source of frustration, necessitating regular cleanup to keep your space looking its best.

10. Prone to Fungal Diseases

Philodendron Selloums can be susceptible to fungal diseases, especially if they’re kept in overly damp conditions. These diseases can manifest as spots on the leaves or even root rot, which can be devastating if not caught early.

Keeping the plant in well-draining soil, ensuring adequate air circulation, and avoiding water on the leaves can help prevent these issues. However, it does require vigilance and sometimes additional treatment to keep your plant healthy.

11. Sensitive to Temperature Changes

These tropical beauties prefer a stable environment. Sudden temperature fluctuations or drafts can stress your Philodendron Selloum, leading to leaf drop or other issues. This means keeping them away from doors, windows, or air conditioning vents where temperatures can vary.

For those living in climates with significant temperature changes, creating a consistently warm environment can be tricky and might require additional heating solutions.

12. Root Bound Tendencies

Philodendron Selloums can become root bound as they grow, which means their roots outgrow the pot, leading to stunted growth and poor health. Regular repotting is necessary to keep them thriving, which can be a messy and time-consuming task.

Choosing a slightly larger pot each time and using fresh soil can help, but it’s another layer of maintenance that some plant parents might find cumbersome.

13. Leaf Dusting Required

With their large leaves, Philodendron Selloums tend to collect dust, which can block sunlight from reaching the plant and reduce its ability to photosynthesize effectively. Regular dusting or wiping of the leaves is essential to keep them looking vibrant and healthy.

While some might find this a relaxing part of their plant care routine, others might see it as yet another chore to add to their list.

14. Can Outgrow Indoor Spaces

While their impressive size is often part of their appeal, Philodendron Selloums can sometimes outgrow indoor spaces, becoming too large for a typical room. This can lead to the need for frequent trimming or even relocating the plant to a more suitable environment.

For those with limited space, this might mean having to part with a beloved plant sooner than anticipated.

15. Not Ideal for Low-Light Conditions

While they can tolerate lower light levels than some other houseplants, Philodendron Selloums still need a decent amount of light to thrive. In low-light conditions, they may become leggy, with sparse leaves and slow growth.

Adding artificial lighting can help, but it's an added expense and effort that might not be feasible for everyone.

16. Potential for Leaf Scorch

Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, resulting in brown or bleached spots on the leaves. If you’re not mindful of their placement, you might find your beautiful plant looking a little worse for wear.

Positioning them in a spot with bright indirect light is crucial, which can be tricky if your home doesn't have the ideal lighting conditions.

17. Can Be Pricey

Philodendron Selloums can be on the pricier side, especially for larger or more mature plants. While they are a great investment for long-term plant enthusiasts, the initial cost might be prohibitive for some.

It's worth considering whether the benefits outweigh the financial investment, especially if you're new to keeping houseplants.

18. Sensitive to Fertilizer

While they do benefit from regular feeding, Philodendron Selloums can be sensitive to too much fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can lead to leaf burn and other issues, so it's important to follow guidelines carefully.

This means keeping track of feeding schedules and amounts, which might be more than some plant parents want to manage.

19. Not the Best for Air Quality

While many philodendrons are known for their air-purifying qualities, the Philodendron Selloum is not the top performer in this regard. If you’re specifically looking for a plant to improve indoor air quality, you might want to consider other options.

That said, they still offer aesthetic benefits and can be part of a diverse plant collection that collectively contributes to a healthier home environment.

Final Thoughts

Philodendron Selloums, with their lush, tropical vibe, can definitely add a dramatic touch to any indoor space. However, it's clear that they come with a fair share of challenges. From space and humidity needs to pest management and pruning, these plants require a bit of dedication.

At Cafe Planta, we understand the joys and challenges of being a plant parent. If you have any questions about caring for your plants, feel free to email us or send us a message on Instagram. Whether you're looking to expand your plant collection or get some tips on plant care, we're here to help you create a thriving indoor garden that brings joy to your home.