Split Leaf Philodendron Care (Tree Philodendron Growing Guide)

Learn how to care for a split leaf philodendron with tips on light, watering, soil, and growing a healthy tree philodendron indoors.

Ready to grow a bold, tropical houseplant that’s surprisingly easy to care for? The split leaf philodendron, also known as tree philodendron, is a popular choice for its dramatic foliage and low maintenance needs.

Learn how to care for a split leaf philodendron with the right light, watering, and soil. With proper care, this large, fast-growing plant can thrive indoors for many years and become a true statement piece in your home.

The split leaf philodendron is often confused with Monstera deliciosa, but they are different plants with similar leaf shapes. While both are beautiful, the tree philodendron has its own unique growth habit and care needs that are important to understand.

I’ve been growing this plant for over fifteen years and have propagated it many times, so I’ve seen firsthand how resilient and rewarding it can be. It’s one of those plants that grows with you and becomes a lasting part of your home.

If you’re just getting started with indoor plants, you may also find my houseplant care guide helpful for building confidence and learning the basics.

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💡 Quick Guide: Growing a Split Leaf Philodendron Indoors

Learn the simple care basics to grow a healthy, thriving split leaf philodendron (tree philodendron) with confidence.

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light for best growth. It can tolerate lower light, but growth may slow. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
• Watering: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Water thoroughly and allow excess to drain. Avoid overwatering, as this plant is sensitive to soggy soil.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity but adapts well to typical indoor conditions. Increase humidity if leaf edges brown.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, rich potting mix. A blend with peat, perlite, and bark works well to support healthy root growth.
• Temperature: Keep in temperatures between 65–80°F. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
• Fertilizing: Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
• Pruning: Prune to control size and remove damaged leaves. This plant can grow large, so occasional trimming helps maintain shape.
• Support: Provide a sturdy stake or moss pole as it matures to support its large, spreading growth habit.
• Common Issues: Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering. Brown edges may signal low humidity. Slow growth is usually due to low light.

Getting to Know the Split Leaf Philodendron

While commonly called the split leaf philodendron, this striking plant’s botanical name is Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, though it is still often sold under its former name, Philodendron bipinnatifidum.

Native to the tropical rainforests of South America, this plant thrives in warm, humid environments. In its natural habitat, it can reach up to 50 feet tall, but indoors it typically grows much smaller, usually up to 10–15 feet, while still making a bold statement. I’ve been growing mine for close to 15 years, and it can get impressively large over time.

The split leaf philodendron is known for its large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long. These deeply divided leaves create a lush, tropical look that instantly adds drama to indoor spaces. While it rarely flowers indoors, it may occasionally produce a bloom with a white spathe and spadix, typical of plants in the aroid family.

Light

The split leaf philodendron thrives in bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight filtering through the rainforest canopy. You can achieve this indoors by placing your plant near a window with sheer curtains or in a well-lit room but away from direct sunlight. Since I’m growing a few of these now, I grow mine in north, west and east facing windows.

Direct sun can scorch the leaves, causing unsightly brown spots. On the other hand, insufficient light will result in slower growth, smaller leaves, and a loss of the deep green color. If you notice your plant becoming leggy or the leaves appearing pale, it’s a sign it needs more light. Conversely, if the leaves start to yellow or develop brown edges, it’s getting too much direct sun.

If you don’t have enough light in your home or access to windows, consider adding a grow light like this one so your plant can thrive.

Soil: The Foundation for Healthy Growth

Well-draining soil is crucial for the split leaf philodendron. These plants are susceptible to root rot if their roots sit in soggy soil. A good potting mix should allow excess water to drain freely while retaining enough moisture to keep the roots hydrated.

A recommended mix consists of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark. Peat moss provides moisture retention, perlite improves drainage, and orchid bark adds aeration and structure. This combination creates a loose, airy environment that encourages healthy root development. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 – 7.0) for optimal growth.

While I usually repot my houseplants in a good, well draining chunky soil mix like I mentioned, I have found this plant to not be very picky about its accommodations. This pre-made chunky soil mix is a great option if you don’t want to make one yourself.

Temperature and Humidity: Recreating the Tropics

As a tropical plant, the split leaf philodendron enjoys warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. Ideally, keep the temperature between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Avoid exposing your plant to temperatures below 55°F (13°C), as it is sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. Keep it away from cold windows and air conditioning vents.

To increase humidity around your plant, you can mist it regularly with water, use a pebble tray filled with water, or run a humidifier like this one. Grouping plants together can also create a microclimate with higher humidity.

Watering: Finding the Balance

Proper watering is essential for the health of your split leaf philodendron. Overwatering is a common problem and can lead to root rot, one of the most frequent causes of decline in these plants. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Stick your finger into the soil to check the moisture level or use a moisture meter like this one.

The frequency of watering will depend on several factors, including the size of the pot, the type of potting mix, the temperature, and the humidity levels. During the growing season (spring and summer), you’ll likely need to water more frequently than in the fall and winter when growth slows down.

Keep an eye out for signs of overwatering, such as yellowing leaves, wilting, and a foul odor from the soil. If you suspect overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the leaves to droop and the soil to become dry and compacted.

Fertilizing: A Little Goes a Long Way

The split leaf philodendron is not a heavy feeder. Fertilize once or twice a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil and damage the roots. During the fall and winter, when growth slows down, you can reduce or stop fertilizing altogether.

I’ve been using an organic liquid fertilizer like this one every time I water, and my split leaf philodendrons LOVE it. They push out a ton of new growth and are really thriving – even in the winter.

Pests and Diseases: Keeping Your Split Leaf Philodendron Healthy

While generally resilient, split leaf philodendrons can occasionally be affected by common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests, such as webbing, sticky residue, or small insects on the leaves.  

If you notice any pests, you can treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. For more severe infestations, you may need to use a systemic insecticide.

Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal if left untreated. Ensure proper drainage and avoid letting the plant sit in water. Leaf spot diseases can also occur, often caused by fungal pathogens. These can be treated with fungicides.

The best way to prevent pest and disease problems is to maintain good cultural practices, including proper watering, lighting, and humidity. A healthy plant is much more resistant to pests and diseases.

Split Leaf Philodendron Propagation: Sharing the Love

Split leaf philodendrons can be propagated through several methods, making it easy to share this beautiful plant with friends and family or expand your own collection.

• Stem Cuttings: Take cuttings with at least one node and a few leaves. You can root these cuttings in water or directly in moist sphagnum moss. Once roots have developed, plant the cuttings in potting mix.
• Air Layering: This method involves making a cut on a stem and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap to retain moisture. Once roots develop from the wounded area, you can cut the stem below the roots and pot the new plant.
• Division: This technique is best for mature plants with multiple stems. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root ball into sections, ensuring each section has both roots and stems. Pot each division in fresh potting mix.

How to Successfully Grow a Split Leaf Philodendron Indoors

Growing a split leaf philodendron is a rewarding experience, especially as you watch it develop its bold, tropical foliage over time. With the right balance of light, watering, and well-draining soil, this plant can thrive indoors for many years and become a true focal point in your home.

In my experience, this is one of those plants that gets better with age. With a little patience and consistent care, it will grow larger and more impressive each season, making it well worth the space it needs.

If you’re looking to build confidence with indoor plants, I recommend learning more about the basics of houseplant care, including how to manage light and watering. You can explore my houseplant care guide, as well as my tips for understanding indoor plant light and proper watering techniques, to help all of your plants thrive.

For more information about growing the tree philodendron, read this article from North Carolina State Cooperative Extension.

To drill down on houseplant care basics and grow an indoor garden that thrives, please read my articles:

• Houseplant Care 101
• From Shop to Home: How to Acclimate Your Tropical Plants
• How to Water Indoor Plants Like a Pro
• How to Revive Houseplants You Thought Were Goners
• Is Your Houseplant Getting Enough Light? Here’s How to Tell.

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Enjoy your day! xo