Is It a Lickety Split or Selloum? Your Guide to Identifying These Popular Philodendrons

If you’re the kind of person who gets a thrill out of spotting the subtle differences between twins (or in this case, twin-like plants), this article is for you. We’re putting Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum under the microscope to reveal their unique personalities, growth habits, and care requirements.

Choosing between Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum for your home can be tricky. Both houseplants are loved for their lush, tropical look, but they have some important differences. Philodendron Lickety Split has a more compact growth habit, making it ideal for smaller spaces, while Selloum can grow quite large, perfect for filling bigger areas. Understanding the light requirements and growth patterns of each plant will help you better decide which one suits your home.

The Philodendron Lickety Split thrives in bright, indirect light but can also manage well in medium light conditions. On the other hand, the Philodendron Selloum can tolerate lower light levels, offering greater flexibility in placement around your home. Both plants need warm, humid environments, but the Lickety Split is generally more resistant to diseases, making it slightly easier for beginners to care for.

Key Takeaways

• Philodendron Lickety Split is compact and ideal for small spaces.
• Philodendron Selloum can tolerate lower light.
• Both need warm, humid conditions and well-aerated soil.

Is the philodendron selloum and the philodendron licketty split the same plant? And if not, what is the difference?

Philodendron Selloum and Philodendron ‘Lickety Split’ are often mistaken for each other, especially when they’re young. Here’s the trick to telling them apart:

• Philodendron Selloum (commonly called ‘Hope’): The leaves grow long and straight with distinct “fingers” or lobes.
• Philodendron ‘Lickety Split’: The leaves also have “fingers,” but as the plant matures, they become more rounded, giving the leaf a fuller, bushier look.

Think of it like this: ‘Hope’ has more of a “palm tree” vibe with its long, straight fronds, while ‘Lickety Split’ gets a bit wilder and more rounded as it grows.

When you’re shopping for one of these plants, try to find the largest, most mature one you can. The bigger the leaves, the easier it’ll be to spot the difference.

Key Points to Remember:

• Leaf Lobing: The most noticeable difference is the earlier and more pronounced lobing in the leaves of Lickety Split, especially in younger plants.
• Size: While both can reach impressive sizes, Lickety Split might remain slightly more compact overall.
• Care: Both plants have identical care requirements, preferring bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.
• Price & Availability: Selloum is more widely available and often more affordable, while Lickety Split might be a bit pricier due to its novelty.

Background and Origins

Both Philodendron Selloum and Philodendron Lickety Split are popular houseplants with unique characteristics. They share a common regional origin but offer distinct features that make them suitable for different indoor environments.

Philodendron Selloum (Thaumatophyllum Bipinnatifidum)

Philodendron Selloum, also known as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, hails from the tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. This plant thrives in humid environments and can grow quite large, often reaching heights of up to 10 feet when grown outdoors.

Its leaves are known for their deep lobes and large size, often spanning up to 3 feet. This plant is often referred to as a “tree philodendron” due to its potential size and growth habit. Indoors, it prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.

Experienced growers suggest placing your Selloum near a window with filtered light to mimic its native habitat. This plant is also quite resilient and can bounce back from neglect, making it ideal for those new to houseplants.

Philodendron Lickety Split

The Philodendron Lickety Split is a more compact variety, making it perfect for smaller spaces. It is a hybrid, developed for its unique split leaves and compact growth habit. Just like Selloum, it originates from the humid regions of South America.

Its leaves are deeply lobed but smaller, offering a more manageable size for indoor environments. The Lickety Split prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant green color and healthy growth. It can also tolerate lower light levels, although this might slow its growth.

According to horticulturists, this plant is relatively low-maintenance and resistant to many common plant diseases. Its compact form and ease of care make it an excellent choice for those looking to add greenery without taking up too much space.

Visual Comparison: Leaves

When comparing the leaves of the Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum, you’ll notice significant differences in shape, size, texture, color, and new leaf emergence. Each plant has unique characteristics that make them suitable for different environments and preferences.

Shape

The leaves of the Philodendron Lickety Split are deeply lobed with distinct splits that resemble fingers. In contrast, the Philodendron Selloum has broad, deeply lobed leaves that create a more dramatic and lush appearance.

Lickety Split leaves are more compact in their design, contributing to the plant’s neat growth habit. Although both have deeply lobed leaves, the Selloum’s are wider and less finger-like. This gives the Selloum a more flowing and expansive look.

Size

Lickety Split:

• Typically, 8-12 inches long.
• More compact growth habit.

Selloum:

• Leaves can reach up to 3 feet in length.
• The larger overall size makes it a statement piece in any space.

The expansive growth of the Selloum means it requires more room to thrive, whereas the Lickety Split is ideal for smaller spaces due to its more restrained size.

Texture

The texture of the Philodendron Lickety Split’s leaves is smooth and glossy, making it attractive and easy to clean. They have a slight sheen that catches light beautifully indoors. The Selloum, on the other hand, has a slightly rougher texture but still maintains a certain gloss.

“Philodendrons like Lickety Split are great for adding a touch of shine to your living spaces,” says horticulturist Jane Doe. The differences in texture can affect your choice depending on the look and feel you want for your home.

Color

The leaves of the Philodendron Lickety Split are a rich dark green, often maintaining their color well even in varying light conditions. The Selloum leaves are also green but tend to have a slightly lighter hue in comparison.

Yellowing leaves can occur in both varieties if there’s insufficient light or overwatering. Keeping an eye on the color of new growth can tell you a lot about the plant’s health.

New Leaf Emergence

New leaves on the Philodendron Lickety Split emerge in a tight coil and slowly unfurl, showing off their distinctive splits almost immediately. They have a pale green color at first and gradually darken as they mature.

For the Selloum, new leaf emergence is similar but on a larger scale. The new leaves are also lighter in color, but due to their larger size, they take more time to unfurl completely.

Both plants show new growth throughout the year, especially with proper care, making them exciting to watch as they continuously evolve.

Growth Habit and Structure

Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum are different in their physical appearance and how they grow. Both plants have unique sizes and stem structures that define their growth patterns.

Size

Philodendron Lickety Split is a more compact plant, making it ideal for smaller indoor spaces. It typically grows to about 2-3 feet in height. Its leaves are deeply split and feature a vibrant green color. The compact size makes it easier to manage and fit into an indoor garden.

On the other hand, Philodendron Selloum can grow much larger, reaching heights of around 5 feet with a canopy that spreads up to 10 feet wide.

The leaves can grow up to 3 feet long and 12-14 inches wide. This plant is better suited for larger spaces where it can fully expand. According to Epic Gardening, Selloum has a long lifespan and can dominate a room, providing a dramatic focal point.

Stems

The stems of Lickety Split are upright and help maintain its compact and bushy shape. These stems are sturdy enough to support the dense foliage but flexible enough to handle pruning and adjusting as needed. This characteristic makes it easier to shape and control your plant’s growth.

In contrast, Selloum’s stems are more robust and can grow aerial roots, which help support its large size. These stems can grow quite long and create a drooping upper canopy. Experienced growers have noted that the aerial roots provide additional stability and can assist the plant in drawing more nutrients from the surrounding environment, allowing it to thrive even in less-than-ideal conditions in your indoor garden.

For an in-depth guide on caring for and maintaining these plants, Philodendron Selloum Care offers excellent tips on managing their growth and ensuring they stay healthy.

Care Requirements

Taking care of Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum isn’t too hard if you know what they need. Let’s look at the best way to keep these plants happy and healthy in your home.

Light

Philodendron Lickety Split prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, causing them to turn yellow. Philodendron Selloum, on the other hand, can handle lower light levels better but still thrives in bright, indirect light.

Place your plants near windows with filtered sunlight for the best growth. If natural light is insufficient, you might consider using grow lights to supplement their light needs.

Water

Watering is crucial for both types. A Philodendron Lickety Split should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common issue if the plant sits in water.

Philodendron Selloum prefers its soil to be slightly moist but not soggy. Water once weekly and ensure your pot has good drainage holes. Remember to adjust your watering schedule based on the season, as these plants need less water in the colder months.

Humidity

Both plants love high humidity. Philodendron Lickety Split can manage regular indoor humidity but will thrive in higher humidity levels. Use a humidifier or place a tray of water near the plant to increase moisture in the air.

Philodendron Selloum enjoys really high humidity, around 70-90%. Regular misting or using a pebble tray can help maintain these levels, especially in drier months.

Temperature

Philodendron Lickety Split and Philodendron Selloum both prefer warm environments. The ideal temperature range for Selloum is 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit (16-24 degrees Celsius).

Avoid placing these plants near cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, as this can stress them and slow their growth.

Soil

A well-draining soil mix is essential for both plants. A good mix might include peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil. For Philodendron Lickety Split, this type of soil will prevent water from sitting at the bottom and causing root rot.

Philodendron Selloum also benefits from this type of mix. Adding a bit of sand can improve drainage further.

Fertilizer

Philodendron Lickety Split needs a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. Feed your plant once a month in spring and summer to support its growth rate.

Philodendron Selloum should be fertilized with a liquid fertilizer at half strength. Monthly applications in warmer months will keep your plant healthy and encourage lush foliage.

Support

As these plants grow, they might need some support. Philodendron Lickety Split generally has a more compact growth habit, so it might not need much staking.

Meanwhile, Philodendron Selloum can grow quite large and may need a support structure. Using a moss pole or a sturdy stake can help keep the plant upright and support its big, beautiful leaves. Regular pruning can also help manage the size and shape of both plants, ensuring they don’t become too leggy.

Additional Considerations

Price: You’ll find that the Lickety Split might be a bit pricier. This is possibly because it’s relatively new in the market. On the other hand, the Selloum is widely available and could fit better within a tight budget.

Availability: If you’re searching for a Selloum, your local garden center likely has it in stock. The Lickety Split, however, could prove more elusive, so you may need to check specialty stores or order online.

Space: Lickety Split has a more compact growth habit, making it ideal for smaller spaces. Selloum, on the other hand, can grow quite large, so it’s better suited for areas with more room.

Aesthetics: Both plants look stunning, but the Lickety Split has uniquely split leaves, adding an exotic touch to your home decor. The Selloum, with its broad leaves, gives a lush, tropical vibe.

Light Requirements: Both plants prefer bright, indirect light. However, Lickety Split can tolerate lower light levels better. Selloum does well in moderately bright areas but avoid full sun as it can scorch the leaves.

Pests: Be on the lookout for common pests like mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and scale. Using neem oil can help manage these pests effectively. Both plants can suffer from these pests, so regular inspections are important.

Common Issues: One plant might struggle with yellowing leaves or leggy growth if not cared for properly. Ensure you’re meeting their light and watering needs to avoid these problems.

Propagation: Both philodendrons are relatively easy to propagate. Place cuttings in water until they root, then transfer to soil.

Toxicity: Remember, philodendrons can be toxic to pets and humans, so keep them out of reach of curious animals or little ones.

Outdoor Growth: While both can be grown outdoors in suitable climates, ensure they are protected from full sun and harsh weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum have distinct care needs, growth habits, and appearances. Here are the answers to some common questions about these plants.

What are the main care differences between Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum?

Philodendron Lickety Split prefers bright, indirect light, while Selloum can tolerate lower light levels. Lickety Split also has a more compact growth habit compared to the sprawling Selloum. For Lickety Split, use aerated and porous soil, whereas Selloum thrives in well-draining soil with organic matter.

Can Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum both be grown outdoors and if so, under what conditions?

Yes, both can be grown outdoors. Selloum can handle partial shade and even some full sun, provided it gets enough water. Lickety Split does well in shaded areas with indirect sunlight. Both plants need well-draining soil and protection from strong winds to prevent leaf damage.

What should you know about toxicity when comparing Philodendron Lickety Split to Selloum?

Both plants are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat. Always keep these plants out of reach of children and pets.

How do Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum vary in their propagation methods?

Propagation for both is usually done via stem cuttings. For Lickety Split, take a cutting with at least two nodes and place it in water or moist soil. Selloum cuttings should be placed in water first until roots develop, then transferred to soil.

Is there a difference in the growth patterns of Philodendron Lickety Split and Selloum?

Yes, Lickety Split grows more compactly, making it suitable for smaller spaces. Selloum can grow quite large with sprawling leaves, often needing more space to flourish. Regular pruning helps manage the size of both plants, but especially Selloum due to its larger growth habit.

What distinguishes the leaves of Philodendron Lickety Split from those of Selloum?

Lickety Split has deeply lobed, narrow leaves that resemble fingers. The leaves are glossy and often a vibrant green. In comparison, Selloum has broader, lobed leaves with a more ruffled appearance. The texture of Selloum’s leaves is slightly leathery, making them more robust.

For example, one experienced grower notes, “Selloum’s broad leaves create a dramatic focal point in any garden, while Lickety Split’s structured look fits perfectly in a modern indoor setting.”