Accession Count: 10
Common Name:
lacy tree philodendron
Family Name:
Araceae
Botanical Name:
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
The lacy tree philodendron is a broadleaf, perennial shrub that tends to have a wider spread (10-15 ft) compared to its height (6-12 ft). In its natural habitat, it tends to grow taller, with a height of up to 5 m (16 ft), and has a more well-developed trunk-like stem than when it is grown in cultivation (4). The woody trunk of the plant, has distinct leaf scars where petioles were previously attached (1). Its long pale green petioles are attached to large dark green, shiny or glossy textured, 18-36 inch (45.7- 91.4 cm) long pinnatifid leaves (1, 2). After completing a juvenile period, it is then able to flower. Flowers that appear on mature plants, are white and have a spadix inflorescence. The spathe is fleshy and has a green exterior and a white interior (1). The spathe forms a funnel around the spadix which is comprised of many small flowers that collectively form a fleshy fingerlike shape that pokes out from the spathe (6). There is enough space between the spathe and spadix to attract pollinators to the spadix and even trapping them within the flower. Flowers may also be dark red or purplish color (1). Its fruits are small berries that are green before maturation, and orange, red or white once mature (1).
Compound:
Phi bip
Geographic Origin:
Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, Paraguay
Ecozone Origin:
Neotropic
Biome Origin:
Tropical and Subtropical
Natural History:
The lacy tree philodendron is native to South America, growing mostly in the tropical forests of Central and South America and the Caribbean especially in Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. However, it is also cultivated as a landscape plant in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate climates. It grows in very dense and humid rainforests and flourishes under large canopies of trees that shade it from the sun. Sometimes, however, this plant can have the tendency to climb trees several feet high by suspending itself on the trunk of large trees with its trunk while extending its roots several feet down into the soil (7).
Cultivation Notes:
Philodendrons prefer warm temperatures, but this species is cold hardy to USDA Hardiness zones 9-11, and can tolerate temperatures as low as -6.7 degrees Celsius (20 degrees Fahrenheit) (1). The lacy tree philodendron can be propagated from stem cuttings. Soils that are preferred are moderate in acidity with a pH range of 5.5-7.0, are loamy without any salt as they are salt intolerant and should also have adequate drainage to prevent rotting (5). This plant grows best with moderate watering and is only slightly drought tolerant. It also grows well with high humidity and bright, indirect light (partial sun) so that it is shielded from harsh sun rays in order to prevent scorching on this plant (4). It is best planted 1.8 m to 3.7 m (6- 12 ft) away from other plants to provide adequate space for the mature size of the plant (6).
Ethnobotany:
Lacy tree philodendrons are commonly known for their showy foliage and are often cultivated as houseplants and in tropical or sub-tropical outdoor landscapes. Though the lace tree philodendron is commonly used as an ornamental plant for both indoors and outdoors, indigenous peoples of South America have traditionally used this plant for a wide range of purposes. It was used as a source of fiber as the aerial roots could be used as ropes or binding material (3). Its mature fruits, which are both tasty and nutritious, are harvested to eat (3). It’s sap and roots were also traditionally used in healing open wounds, as a pain reliever, and even to treat intestinal sicknesses or pains (3).
Height:
6 - 10 feet
Width:
11 - 15 feet
Growth Rate:
Fast Growing
Grow Season:
Spring
Flower Season:
Summer
Color:
Green
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Toxic
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Moderate Water Use
