Thaumatophyllum
( toe - mat - oh - FYE - lum )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of tropical evergreen plants are native to north Africa's tropical zones and its species are commonly kept as indoor houseplants or greenhouse specimens. These plants produce very large heart-shaped leaves that are green and glossy, providing great tropical foliage. Flowers are produced on an erect spadix inside of a cream to white spathe. Take care when planting these beauties in your garden or bringing them into your home; their sap can cause skin irritation, and ingesting plant parts can cause stomach upset, swelling and respiratory issues.
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Thaumatophyllum Species and Varietals
The genus Thaumatophyllum includes 21 species, and is a member of the plant family Araceae. The genus was created in 1859 by Austrian botanist Heinrich Wilhelm Schott who named a single species. The species was then moved around to other genera, namely Philodendron and Meconostigma, before finally being placed back into the genus Thaumatophyllum after molecular studies were performed. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Thaumatophyllum bipinnnatifidum (Split-Leaf Philodendron, Lacy Tree Philodendron, Selloum, Horsehead Philodendron, Guaimbe, Fruit Salad Plant) These adaptable plants can be grown in either full sun or full shade in their zone range, and are kept as houseplants elsewhere. Leaves are large and glossy green, frequently seen drooping. |
Thaumatophyllum speciosum (Imperial Philodendron) This species is native to Brazil and Bolivia, and reaches between 6 and 12 feet tall at maturity. Leaves are large, glossy, deep green, and entire. These plants prefer full to dappled shade or medium indirect light if grown indoors, and slightly acidic soil (pH of between 6.1 - 6.5). |
Thaumatophyllum spruceanum (Philodendron goeldii) This hemiepiphytic plant is a scrambler, climbing whatever it comes into contact with. It is native to northern South America, and unlike most other species in the genus, has edible fruits that are sweet, tasting a bit like a pineapple or banana. The species is named for Richard Spruce, who first discovered and collected the plant from the Amazon Rainforest. |
Thaumatophyllum xanadu (Philodendron xanadu) Commonly kept as an indoor ornamental foliage plant, this species is native to Brazil and produces dense clumps of foliage that can reach up to 5 feet tall and 7 feet wide. Leaves are glossy green and deeply dissected, stretching up to 16 inches long and 12 inches wide. |
Caring for Syngonium
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Spaths are susceptible to the following issues and pests:
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Gallery
Videos
Learn about these interesting houseplants.
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An educational video about Cast-Iron Plant.
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