Family: Araceae

Philodendron goeldii (syn. Thaumatophyllum spruceanum) is a slow-growing, clumping to hemi-epiphytic tropical plant native to the Amazon Basin. It is used as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical climates and has not been reported as invasive or weedy anywhere in its introduced range. Although fleshy-fruited, and apparently adapted for some form of animal dispersal, confirmed reports of dispersal by birds or other frugivorous animals have not been documented in the literature.

Caution should be exercised when growing this and other philodendron species, as intentional or accidental ingestion may result in painful burning and swelling of the mouth parts due to oxalates. Contact dermatitis also occurs.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives and could spread in regions with tropical climates
  
• Other Philodendron species are invasive
  
• Presence of oxalates may result in burning, swelling or dermatitis if accidentally or intentionally consumed
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Climbing habit (could potentially smother other vegetation)
  
• May hybridize with other species in the genus
  
• Reproduces by seed and potentially through vegetative fragmentation
  
• Seeds dispersed by intentional cultivation, and potentially by fruit-eating birds and other animals

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of naturalization or invasiveness to date
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Specialized pollination requirements may limit seed set within introduced range
  
• Reported to be protogynous and functionally self-incompatible
  
• Herbicides provide effective control of other invasive Philodenrdon species