Split-leaf philodendron Plant Care
Harnackia bisecta Urb.
Updated · Sources · How we source care data
This plant's unique feature lies in its striking variegated leaves, with hues of green, white, and pink. Originating from the rainforests of Colombia, Harnackia bisecta is highly sought after by plant collectors for its rare and beautiful foliage that adds a tropical touch to any indoor jungle.
Every 7–14 days
Bright indirect light
65–85°F
60–80%
At a glance
How do you care for Split-leaf philodendron?
Water Split-leaf philodendron every 7–14 days, letting the top layer of soil dry out between waterings, and give it bright indirect light. It prefers temperatures of 65–85°F (18–29°C) and 60–80% humidity. Fertilize it every 2 months during the growing season.
Where Is the Split-leaf philodendron Native To?
What Is the Split-leaf philodendron?
Split-leaf philodendron (Harnackia bisecta) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Harnackia genus. Split-leaf philodendron is native to Cuba. Split-leaf philodendron is also known as Swiss cheese plant, Monstera deliciosa.
Split-leaf philodendron displays a low rosette, clumping habit growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 7 ft. Split-leaf philodendron produces small daisy-like flowers in various colors.
Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Split-leaf philodendron?
Harnackia bisecta requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Split-leaf philodendron Need?
Split-leaf philodendron thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Split-leaf philodendron in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Bright indirect light
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Split-leaf philodendron Prefer?
Harnackia bisecta grows best at temperatures of 65–85°F. Split-leaf philodendron prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
65–85°F
Humidity
60–80%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Split-leaf philodendron?
Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter for moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Split-leaf philodendron to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Often Should You Fertilize a Split-leaf philodendron?
Feed Split-leaf philodendron every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.
Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.
Fertilizing
Every 2 months
During the growing season
The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.
How Do You Repot a Split-leaf philodendron?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Split-leaf philodendron?
Split-leaf philodendron can be propagated through seeds, division of offsets, stem cuttings.
Is the Split-leaf philodendron Toxic to Pets and Children?
Pet safety not verified
The ASPCA does not list Split-leaf philodendron, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Keep pets from chewing it as a precaution.
This is a general caution, not veterinary or medical advice. If your pet ate a plant, contact your vet or animal poison control.
See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Split-leaf philodendron?
Split-leaf philodendron is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.
Keep exploring plants
Split-leaf philodendron is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Harnackia genus — compare its care with other Harnackia species on PlantoScan.
Harnackia is part of the Asteraceae plant family — browse all Asteraceae genera and species.
Split-leaf philodendron thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
Related Plant Care Guides
Closely related plants with similar care requirements:
Sources
- Scientific name & taxonomy: Harnackia bisecta Urb., family Asteraceae (first published in Repert. Spec. Nov. Regni Veg. 21: 73 (1925)) — World Flora Online record, IPNI name record.
- Pet toxicity: Pet safety not verified: the ASPCA does not list Split-leaf philodendron, so we can't confirm whether it is safe for cats and dogs. Checked against the ASPCA plant list; any other toxicity note on this page comes from PlantoScan's plant database.
- Care values(watering, light, temperature, humidity, soil, fertilizing): PlantoScan's plant database, filtered by automatic plausibility checks — values that fail them are hidden. How we source and check plant data.
Spotted a mistake? Email info@upvision.media with the page link — we check and correct reported errors.
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