The Philodendron selloum, now classified as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, is known for its dramatic, deeply lobed foliage. Often called the Lacy Tree Philodendron or Split-Leaf Philodendron, its impressive size makes it a striking houseplant. Propagating it is a straightforward way to expand a collection or share the plant with others using horticultural techniques.
Tools and Timing for Propagation Success
The best period for propagation is during the plant’s active growth phase, typically late spring or early summer, when temperatures are consistently warm. Preparing all necessary materials beforehand ensures a smooth process and minimizes stress on the parent plant.
All tools must be sterilized before making cuts to prevent the transfer of pathogens. Use a sharp, clean knife or pruning shears to make precise incisions, which heal faster than jagged tears. Rooting hormone is highly recommended for stem cuttings as it promotes faster root development. The initial rooting medium should be ready, whether it is clean water, moist sphagnum moss, or a well-draining potting mix.
Propagating Using Stem Cuttings
Propagating Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum via stem cuttings is best suited for mature plants with a woody, cane-like stem structure. The node is the point of interest, as this slightly swollen area is where aerial roots emerge and contains the cells necessary for new root production.
To create a viable cutting, use a sterilized tool to make a clean cut directly below a node, ensuring the section includes one to two healthy nodes. Carefully remove any leaves attached to the lowest node to prevent rotting once submerged. Dip the freshly cut end into rooting hormone powder.
Prepared stem sections can be placed in water, ensuring at least one node remains submerged, or inserted directly into an aerated medium like damp sphagnum moss. Cuttings root most efficiently with high ambient humidity, achieved by covering the container with a plastic bag or clear dome. The rooting process takes several weeks; keep the medium consistently clean and moist.
Propagating by Separating Offsets
Separating offsets, also known as pups, is a simpler method that yields a larger, more established plant immediately. This technique requires a mature mother plant that has naturally produced smaller growths near its base. The offset must have its own established root system and at least a few healthy leaves to be viable.
Gently remove the entire plant from its container to expose the root ball and the connection points. Work the soil away from the roots, or soak the root ball in water, to identify the natural separation point. Use a sterile, sharp knife to sever the connection, ensuring the offset retains as many roots as possible.
The separated offset should be immediately potted into its own container using a standard, well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the root mass to avoid excess moisture retention. Water the new plant thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.
Initial Care for Newly Propagated Plants
Once stem cuttings have developed roots approximately one inch long, or immediately after potting offsets, the plants require specific care. Both methods benefit from bright, indirect light, which supports root and leaf development without scorching the new foliage. Consistent ambient warmth is also beneficial, with temperatures ideally remaining above 65°F.
Watering practices should maintain slightly more moisture than for a mature plant, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but never saturated or waterlogged. For stem cuttings rooted in moss or water, the transition to soil involves gradually reducing the humidity level over several days to acclimate the new plant. This prevents shock from a sudden environmental change. Continued consistent care will allow the new plant to establish a robust root system and begin producing its characteristic large leaves.