Herb's Introduction
Philodendron bipinnatifidum, commonly known as the split-leaf philodendron, is a large, tropical plant native to the humid forests of South America. Despite its common name, it's not a true philodendron but a member of the genus Thaumatophyllum, although it was previously classified under Philodendron. This classification change was based on genetic and morphological differences, but many people still refer to it by its old name. It's a member of the Araceae family, which includes other popular houseplants like peace lilies and monsteras. This plant is known for its dramatic, deeply lobed leaves that can grow to impressive sizes, making it a popular ornamental plant.
Name in Different Countries
The plant has several names reflecting its appearance and cultural context. Some of its common names include: English: Split-Leaf Philodendron, Lacy Tree Philodendron, Selloum French: Philodendron à feuilles bipinnatifides Guarani: Guembé Portuguese: Banana d'Imbé Russian: Филодендрон двоякоперистый (Filodendron dvoiakoperisty) Finnish: Peikonkämmen These names often describe the plant's unique leaf shape, its resemblance to a tree, or its native habitat.
Terminology
Petioles: The stalks that attach the leaves to the stem. In this plant, they are long and smooth. Spadix: A fleshy spike on which the small, petalless flowers grow. Spathe: A large, leaf-like bract that encloses the spadix, often white or cream-colored. Leaf Scars: Characteristic "eye-drop" marks on the woody trunk left by fallen leaves. Bipinnatifid: A botanical term meaning twice-pinnate, referring to the deeply divided, feathery nature of the leaves.
Availability
Philodendron bipinnatifidum is widely available as a houseplant in nurseries, garden centers, and online stores across the globe. It's a popular choice for indoor décor due to its striking appearance and relatively low maintenance. In tropical and subtropical regions, it's often used as a landscape plant in gardens and public spaces. It's easy to propagate from stem cuttings, which contributes to its widespread availability.
External Look
This plant is a visual standout. Its most prominent feature is its large, glossy, deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to 1.5 meters long. They are a deep green color and are arranged on long, smooth petioles. As the plant matures, it develops a thick, woody trunk with distinctive eye-drop leaf scars. The plant can reach a significant size, often growing as a tree-like specimen in its natural habitat or in a large container. It also produces flowers, which are small, petalless, and grow on a spadix enclosed within a white or cream-colored spathe.
Healing Properties
While primarily used as an ornamental plant, various parts of Philodendron bipinnatifidum have been used in traditional medicine and studied for their potential healing properties. Leaves: The leaves are traditionally used for their hemostatic properties, meaning they can help stop bleeding. They are also used to treat conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye). Scientific studies have also indicated potential antiprotozoal activity, suggesting they may be effective against certain single--celled parasites. Rhizome Resin: The resin from the rhizome (underground stem) has shown antinociceptive activity, which means it can help block the detection of painful stimuli. This suggests it has potential as a pain reliever.
Advantages
Aesthetic Appeal: Its large, unique leaves make it a focal point in any room or garden. Air Purification: Like many plants in the Araceae family, it's known to help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene. Low Maintenance: It's relatively easy to care for, thriving in bright, indirect light and requiring moderate watering. It's a forgiving plant for those new to gardening. Hardy: It's a resilient plant that can withstand a range of conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation in appropriate climates.
Uses
Ornamental Plant: Its primary use is as an indoor houseplant or an outdoor landscape plant in tropical and subtropical regions. It's often used to create a lush, tropical feel in homes, offices, and public spaces. Traditional Medicine: As mentioned, various parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine for their hemostatic and pain-relieving properties. Ethnobotanical: In some cultures, parts of the plant, like its fruit, are consumed, but it's important to note that many parts of the plant are toxic if ingested due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
Using way
When using the plant for medicinal purposes, it's typically done by preparing a poultice from the leaves to apply topically for wounds or conjunctivitis. For internal uses, like for pain relief, a resin from the rhizome might be prepared, though this is not a common practice and should be done with extreme caution due to the plant's toxicity. It is crucial to note that this information is for educational purposes only, and one should never self-medicate with this plant due to its potential toxicity. The primary and safest way to "use" this plant is to enjoy its beauty as a decorative element.
Conclusion
Philodendron bipinnatifidum, or Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, is a magnificent and widely loved plant known for its striking, deeply lobed leaves and tropical appeal. While it holds a place in traditional medicine for its hemostatic and pain-relieving properties, its primary and most widespread use today is as an ornamental plant. Its ease of care and air-purifying qualities make it a fantastic addition to any indoor space, bringing a touch of the rainforest to your home.
