Split-leaf philodendron Plant Care

Split-leaf philodendron (Thoracocarpus bissectus) belongs to the Cyclanthaceae family within the Thoracocarpus genus. Split-leaf philodendron is native to Costa Rica, Panama, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, and South America.

Split-leaf philodendron displays a clumping, low rosette growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Split-leaf philodendron produces small, inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Split-leaf philodendron every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

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.

Thoracocarpus bissectus tolerates temperatures of 65–80°F. Split-leaf philodendron prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. Good drainage is essential for Split-leaf philodendron to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Split-leaf philodendron every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and rich, well-draining soil with high organic content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Split-leaf philodendron is suited to USDA Zone 13b – 12b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Split-leaf philodendron can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 2 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Split-leaf philodendron while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Split-leaf philodendron is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Split-leaf philodendron can be propagated through division of rhizomes.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Split-leaf philodendron is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects. 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.

Split-leaf philodendron grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13b – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 13b. Split-leaf philodendron is native to Costa Rica, Panama, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, and South America. In cooler regions, grow Split-leaf philodendron as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.