The popular houseplant known as the “Split Leaf Philodendron” is a source of significant confusion. This common name is frequently misapplied, leading to the assumption that two distinct plants are the same species. They are not the same plant, nor do they belong to the same scientific genus. Commercial mislabeling requires clarification for proper identification and care.
The Scientific Reality Behind the Confusing Common Names
The plant most often sold and widely recognized as the “Split Leaf Philodendron” is actually Monstera deliciosa. This species belongs to the Monstera genus, which is entirely separate from the Philodendron genus, although both are members of the same larger plant family, Araceae. The confusion is compounded because the common name “Split Leaf Philodendron” is also sometimes used to refer to a second, distinct plant, Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum.
This second plant was historically known as Philodendron selloum or Philodendron bipinnatifidum, which explains the common name’s origin. Botanical classification, however, determined that this species was genetically different enough from true Philodendron plants to warrant its own genus, Thaumatophyllum. Therefore, the single common name “Split Leaf Philodendron” now incorrectly refers to a plant outside the Philodendron genus (Thaumatophyllum) and a different plant entirely (Monstera). The Monstera deliciosa is also famously known by the common name “Swiss Cheese Plant” due to its distinctive foliage.
This botanical mix-up highlights the importance of using scientific nomenclature, as common names can be applied inconsistently to different species. Monstera is a genus containing many species, and Philodendron is another separate, large genus, making the overlap in common names entirely misleading.
Key Characteristics for Visual Identification
The most reliable way to tell the two plants apart is by observing their mature leaf structure, a feature known as fenestration, along with their overall growth habit. Monstera deliciosa leaves are defined by both splits and true holes, or fenestrations, which appear within the leaf blade. These holes are a defining feature that has earned the plant its “Swiss Cheese” nickname.
In contrast, the leaves of Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum are deeply lobed and split from the edges toward the central vein, but they generally do not develop internal holes. The splits on the Thaumatophyllum are more elongated and slender compared to the wider gaps seen on the Monstera.
Furthermore, the two species have fundamentally different growth habits. Monstera deliciosa is a vining epiphyte, meaning it climbs trees in its native environment using thick, prominent aerial roots. As a houseplant, it requires a moss pole or other support structure to mimic this climbing behavior and mature properly.
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, however, is an arboreal plant that is self-supporting with a thick, woody trunk. This trunk is covered in distinctive scars left behind by shed leaves and allows the plant to grow upright like a tree without external support. The Thaumatophyllum spreads horizontally, demanding wide floor space, while the Monstera grows vertically.
Contrasting Care Requirements
While both plants hail from tropical environments and share some general care needs, their distinct growth forms lead to different specific requirements. Monstera deliciosa prefers to dry out slightly between waterings, aligning with its epiphytic nature where its roots are not constantly buried in perpetually moist soil. An ideal watering schedule involves letting the top inch or two of soil become dry before soaking the plant thoroughly.
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, due to its large, bushy size and self-supporting structure, often requires slightly more consistent moisture. It still needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot, but its extensive foliage mass means it can lose water more quickly through transpiration. Both species thrive in bright, indirect light, but the Thaumatophyllum can often handle slightly higher light levels and more direct sun exposure if acclimated slowly.
The structural difference also dictates space needs. A Monstera needs vertical space and a climbing aid to thrive and produce its signature mature foliage. Conversely, the Thaumatophyllum requires significant horizontal space to accommodate its wide, spreading canopy. Understanding these subtle differences is key to cultivating a healthy, mature plant.