Fauna
Plant

Tree Philodendron

Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum

Also known as Lacy Tree Philodendron, Split-leaf Philodendron, Horsehead Philodendron, Selloum

Tree Philodendron produces massive, deeply lobed leaves that unfurl from a central trunk lined with distinctive eye-shaped leaf scars. Native to South American rainforests, this sprawling evergreen generates thick aerial roots to anchor itself and absorb moisture from humid air. In warm landscapes, it forms dramatic focal points while generating internal heat to attract night-flying beetle pollinators.

TropicalEvergreenFoliage
Tree Philodendron reference1 / 7
(c) B. Phalan, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by B. Phalan · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preySunlight, moisture, and soil nutrients
Predators
  • Slugs
  • Scale insects
  • Mealybugs
ThreatsFreezing temperatures, extreme drought, habitat loss
HabitatsSubtropical forests, rainforest margins, urban landscapes
Life span20–50+ years
Classification
  1. OrderAlismatales
  2. FamilyAraceae
  3. GenusThaumatophyllum
  4. SpeciesThaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; wear gloves when handling cut stems and keep away from pets.
Why it is dangerous
Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in tissue and sap cause severe mouth pain, swelling, and skin dermatitis upon contact.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for thick woody trunks with eye-shaped leaf scars and massive glossy leaves with deep wave-like lobes.
What to do
Wear protective gloves when pruning, avoid touching eyes after handling cut stems, and keep pets away from leaves.
Responsible observation
  • Pruning Caution: Wear heavy gloves and eye protection when trimming leaves to prevent sap contact.
  • Pet Safety: Keep potted specimens out of reach of curious cats and dogs.
  • Garden Placement: Provide at least two meters of clearance to allow full leaf expansion.
Related species
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