Harlequin Flower vs Lacy Tree Philodendron Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Harlequin Flower
Tigridia pavonia
Tigridia pavonia, commonly known as the Harlequin Flower or Tiger Flower, is a bulbous perennial prized for its short-lived but spectacular blooms. It produces pleated, sword-shaped leaves from which tall stems arise, bearing several cup-shaped flowers. Each flower lasts only a single day, but successive blooms ensure a display lasting several weeks. The flowers come in a range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white, often with contrasting spots or blotches in the center. Primarily an outdoor plant, it is grown for its vibrant summer blooms in gardens and containers. It is not naturally suited to indoor environments.
Lacy Tree Philodendron
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, commonly known as the Lacy Tree Philodendron or Selloum, is a large, evergreen plant characterized by its deeply lobed, glossy green leaves. Despite its common name, it is not a true philodendron. It exhibits a shrub-like growth habit, developing a thick, trunk-like stem as it matures. While it can reach impressive sizes outdoors, indoor specimens remain more manageable. It's popular for its bold, tropical appearance and relatively easy care, making it a statement piece in homes and offices.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Harlequin Flower | Lacy Tree Philodendron |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) | Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. |
| Watering | Every 1-2 weeks, depending on weather and soil drainage | Every 1-2 weeks, depending on environmental conditions and pot size. |
| Humidity | 40-60% | 40-70% |
| Temperature | 15-25°C | 18-24°C |
| Care Level | Expert | Moderate |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Max Height | 0.3-0.6 meters (outdoors) | 1-2 meters indoors |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-draining soil mix, such as a blend of potting soil, sand, and perlite. | Well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. |
| Beginner Friendly | ❌ No | With Caution |
| Weekly Maintenance | 15 minutes weekly during growing season. | 10 minutes weekly |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Harlequin Flower
| Scientific Name | Tigridia pavonia |
|---|---|
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Native To | Mexico and Guatemala |
| Also Known As | Harlequin Flower, Tiger Flower, Jockey's Cap Lily |
| Leaves | The leaves are pleated, sword-shaped, and typically green. They grow from the base of the plant and can reach up to 30-45 cm in length. |
| Flowers | It rarely flowers indoors. Outdoors, the flowers are cup-shaped and come in a range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. They often have contrasting spots or blotches in the center. |
Lacy Tree Philodendron
| Scientific Name | Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum |
|---|---|
| Family | Araceae |
| Native To | South America, specifically Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Argentina |
| Also Known As | Lacy Tree Philodendron, Split-Leaf Philodendron, Selloum |
| Leaves | The leaves are large, deeply lobed, and glossy green. They can grow up to 90 cm long and wide. The lobes are highly dissected, giving the plant a lacy appearance. New leaves emerge unfurled and gradually expand. |
| Flowers | It rarely flowers indoors. When it does flower (typically outdoors), it produces a spadix and spathe, similar to other members of the Araceae family. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Harlequin Flower
Lacy Tree Philodendron
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Harlequin Flower
Methods: Bulb offsets, Seed
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Separate bulb offsets from the main bulb during dormancy and replant them in well-draining soil. Sow seeds in spring after a period of cold stratification.
Lacy Tree Philodendron
Methods: Stem cuttings, Division, Seed (though rare indoors)
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take stem cuttings with aerial roots and place them in water or directly into moist potting mix. Keep the cutting warm and humid. Division can be done when repotting mature plants.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Harlequin Flower
The Harlequin Flower is unique due to its short-lived, single-day blooms that are replaced by new flowers over several weeks. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors of the flowers make it a standout in any garden. The plant's bulbous nature and dormancy period also set it apart from many other flowering perennials.
- ✓ Adds vibrant color and unique patterns to the garden.
- ✓ Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- ✓ Provides a visually interesting display with its short-lived but numerous blooms.
- ✓ Can be grown in containers for flexibility in placement.
- ✓ Offers a sense of accomplishment for gardeners who successfully cultivate it.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Lacy Tree Philodendron
The deeply lobed leaves are its most distinctive feature, giving it a lush, tropical appearance. It develops a trunk-like stem as it matures, adding to its architectural appeal. It is not a true philodendron, despite its common name.
- ✓ Adds a tropical aesthetic to your home
- ✓ Purifies the air by removing toxins
- ✓ Creates a relaxing and calming atmosphere
- ✓ Provides a sense of connection to nature
- ✓ Relatively easy to care for, boosting confidence in plant care abilities
- 🌬️ NASA-verified air purifier
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Harlequin Flower
Lacy Tree Philodendron
🌞 Light Requirements
Harlequin Flower
Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day)
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Lacy Tree Philodendron
Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Low light tolerant: ✅ Yes
💧 Watering Needs
Harlequin Flower
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to bulb rot. Ensure good drainage. Reduce watering after flowering as the plant enters dormancy. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and a mushy bulb. Underwatering is indicated by wilting leaves and stunted growth.
Lacy Tree Philodendron
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Allow excess water to drain away. Overwatering can lead to root rot, indicated by yellowing leaves and a musty smell. Underwatering results in drooping leaves and dry, crispy edges.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Harlequin Flower
Temperature: 15-25°C
Humidity: 40-60%
Lacy Tree Philodendron
Temperature: 18-24°C
Humidity: 40-70%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Harlequin Flower
Tigridia pavoniaGardeners in warmer climates looking for a unique and vibrant summer bloom.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want a unique and eye-catching flower in your garden.
- You live in a warm climate with plenty of sunshine.
- You enjoy the challenge of growing plants with specific needs.
- You want a plant that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- You appreciate the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the flowers.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You live in a cold climate with harsh winters and cannot provide winter storage for the bulbs.
- You are looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.
- You have pets that might ingest the toxic bulbs.
- You do not have a garden with full sun exposure.
Lacy Tree Philodendron
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidumThose seeking a bold, tropical statement plant that is relatively easy to care for.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want a large, statement plant for your home.
- You appreciate tropical foliage.
- You are looking for a relatively low-maintenance plant.
- You have a space with bright, indirect light.
- You want to add a touch of the jungle to your indoor environment.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that may ingest the plant.
- You have limited space.
- You tend to overwater plants.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Harlequin Flower is rated Expert care level, while Lacy Tree Philodendron is Moderate.
Harlequin Flower has moderate growth, while Lacy Tree Philodendron grows moderate.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Harlequin Flower Care Tips
Tigridia pavonia is primarily an outdoor plant requiring full sun and well-draining soil. Indoor cultivation is challenging due to the high light requirements and dormancy period. It needs a cool, dry dormancy period to thrive. Without proper conditions, it will likely fail to bloom or survive indoors.
- Plant bulbs in well-draining soil to prevent rot.
- Provide full sun exposure for optimal flowering.
- Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Lift and store bulbs in a cool, dry place over winter in colder climates.
Lacy Tree Philodendron Care Tips
Lacy Tree Philodendrons are relatively easy to care for indoors, provided they receive adequate light and are not overwatered. They require well-draining soil and occasional fertilization. Regular cleaning of the leaves will keep them healthy and attractive. They can become large, so provide ample space.
- Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
- Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out before watering.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season.
- Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
- Provide a support structure, such as a moss pole, for the plant to climb if desired.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Harlequin Flower
Lacy Tree Philodendron
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Harlequin Flower
What are the light requirements for Harlequin Flower?
Harlequin Flower requires ample sunlight to thrive and produce vibrant blooms. Ideally, it should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If growing indoors, place the plant near a south-facing window where it can receive maximum sunlight. Insufficient light can lead to weak growth, leggy stems, and a lack of flowering.
How do I care for Harlequin Flower?
Harlequin Flower thrives in well-drained soil and requires full sun to partial shade. Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering after flowering, allowing the plant to enter dormancy. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further flowering.
How do I propagate Harlequin Flower?
Harlequin Flower can be propagated through division of the bulbs or by seed. For division, carefully separate the bulbs after flowering, ensuring each section has roots. Replant the bulbs in well-drained soil.
Lacy Tree Philodendron
What are the light requirements for Lacy Tree Philodendron?
Lacy Tree Philodendrons require bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, causing unsightly burns. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun. A north-facing window can also work, but the plant may grow slower. If placed near a south or west-facing window, use a sheer curtain to filter the intense light. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and smaller, less-defined leaves. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even light exposure on all sides. Monitor the leaves for signs of light stress, such as yellowing or browning.
How do I care for Lacy Tree Philodendron?
Lacy Tree Philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Maintain humidity levels around 60-70% by misting regularly or using a humidifier. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, using a well-draining potting mix. Provide support, such as a moss pole, as the plant matures and its aerial roots develop. Regularly wipe the leaves to remove dust and pests. Keep temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
How do I propagate Lacy Tree Philodendron?
Lacy Tree Philodendrons can be easily propagated through stem cuttings, division, or air layering. For stem cuttings, take a cutting with at least one node and place it in water or directly into moist potting mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until roots develop. For division, carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections and repot each section into its own container. Air layering involves wrapping a node with moist sphagnum moss and covering it with plastic wrap until roots form, then cutting below the roots and potting the new plant.
Last updated: April 21, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.