If you’re a fan of monstera plants, you probably love split-leaf philodendrons too. In fact, these two plants are often confused! They can look great together, so it’s worth it to know how to care for a split leaf philodendron as well.
While these plants look similar, there are some differences.
They both have large, fenestrated leaves, but split leaf philodendron leaves tend to be “curlier” than monstera leaves and they’re much more frond-like than true monstera leaves.
Like monsteras, split leaf philodendrons are also members of the araceae family and are climbing rainforest plants that can grow huge in the wild. However, a split leaf philodendron is actually a philodendron while the monstera is not.
Since they hail from similar regions and climates and have many of the same habits, care for a split leaf philodendron is similar to that of a monstera.
Here are our tips for growing a split leaf philodendron and keeping it healthy.
Table of Contents
The Monstera Lover’s Guide to Split Leaf Philodendron Care
Potting and Soil
Choose a pot with drainage holes that’s about 1-2 inches larger than the root ball of your split leaf philodendron.
Plant in a peaty soil. An easy trick is to mix equal parts perlite, peat moss, and regular indoor potting mix for the right balance of drainage and moisture retention.
Repot every two years so your plant has room to grow.
Light
Split leaf philodendrons prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Place them near a bright window but not directly in the sun’s rays, as this can scorch and discolor the leaves.
As a rule your split leaf philodendron should never cast a shadow. East and south-facing windows work best.
If your home doesn’t get enough light, you can supplement with a grow light.
Water
These plants like to be fairly moist, so water when the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch, which should be able every 7-10 days.
To water, add water to the soil until it starts to run out the bottom, then empty the drainage tray immediately or leave the planter in a place where it can drain for awhile.
Humidity
As tropical rainforest plants, split leaf philodendrons like their humidity above 40%. If you live in a dry climate, you might want to supplement with a humidifier, pebble trays, or other planty friends nearby (like a monstera!) to raise the general humidity level.
Temperatures
Split leaf philodendrons thrive in temperatures from 65-80 degrees fahrenheit, AKA room temperature. Keep them away from drafts, fireplaces, furnaces, space heaters, and vents. These things can freeze or dry out the leaves.
Fertilizer
Use a liquid fertilizer during the spring-fall while your split leaf philodendron is growing. Monstera Plant Food is perfect for this because it’s well balanced to support healthy leaf growth as well as hardy roots and stems.
Things to Know:
- Split leaf philodendrons are toxic, so keep them away from curious pets and children who may ingest them.
- Yellowing leaves can indicate too much water, a lack of light, or a nutrient deficiency.
- Dark brown spots on the leaves could indicate overwatering and root rot. If you notice this, remove the plant from the pot to inspect the roots. Trim away anything that’s dark or mushy and repot in fresh, dry soil.
- Light brown, crispy spots could indicate underwatering or a severe lack of humidity.
Overall, split leaf philodendrons are pretty easy plants to grow and they make quite a statement in any home. Give one a try!
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