Shangri-La Philodendron
Philodendron bipinnatifidum Shangri-La
Shangri-La
About this plant
Philodendron bipinnatifidum 'Shangri-La' is a striking tropical plant known for its deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that create a lush, dramatic look. It is a popular houseplant that adds a tropical feel to indoor spaces. The 'Shangri-La' cultivar is appreciated for its compact growth and attractive foliage. It is often used as an ornamental plant in homes and offices.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Philodendron
- Family
- Araceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Alismatales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South America
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated indoors worldwide; originally native to South America but now grown as a houseplant globally.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, Southeast-facing, South-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix rich in organic matter
Watering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot. Increase watering frequency in warmer months and reduce in cooler months.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
This plant is fairly tough and can tolerate lower light levels, making it suitable for indoor spaces with indirect light. It prefers consistent moisture but dislikes sitting in water, so well-draining soil is important. Watch for yellowing leaves if overwatered or browning edges if too dry. Regular maintenance includes occasional pruning to remove old leaves and repotting every few years.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Large, deeply lobed glossy green leaves with a tropical appearance; occasional spathe-type flowers indoors are rare but possible.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
This plant is mildly toxic if ingested and can cause irritation to skin and mouth. Keep away from children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Philodendron bipinnatifidum 'Shangri-La' may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to its sap. People who are sensitive to plant sap should handle it with care and wear gloves. It does not produce airborne pollen that typically triggers allergies.
Common problems
Common problems include yellow leaves from overwatering, brown leaf edges from dry air or underwatering, and occasional pest issues like spider mites or mealybugs if kept too dry or dusty.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Notes
Prune to remove old or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil and provide room for roots. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).