Split Leaf Philodendron vs Monstera Deliciosa Comparison

Are you puzzled by the similarities between the Split Leaf Philodendron vs Monstera Deliciosa? These popular houseplants often cause confusion due to their comparable appearances, but they are distinct species from different genera. In this detailed comparison, we will delve into the characteristics, growth habits, and unique features of these two remarkable plants.

Overview of Split Leaf Philodendron vs Monstera Deliciosa

Split Leaf Philodendron

• Scientific Name: Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum (synonyms: Philodendron selloum, Philodendron bipinnatifidum)
• Genus: Thaumatophyllum
• Subtribe: Philodendreae
• Family: Araceae (arum)
• Common Names: Split leaf philodendron, Philodendron Hope selloum, tree philodendron, Hope Selloum, selloum, horsehead philodendron, lacy tree philodendron
• Native Habitat: Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay

Monstera Deliciosa

• Scientific Name: Monstera deliciosa
• Genus: Monstera
• Subtribe: Monstereae
• Family: Araceae (arum)
• Common Names: Swiss cheese plant, split-leaf Philodendron, ceriman, Hurricane plant, Cutleaf Philodendron, Mexican breadfruit, Windowleaf
• Native Habitat: Panama to southern Mexico

Similarities between Split Leaf Philodendron and Monstera Deliciosa

1. Family: Both plants belong to the Araceae family, colloquially known as aroids.
2. Toxicity: Both Split Leaf Philodendron and Monstera Deliciosa contain insoluble calcium oxalate, making them harmful or poisonous to humans, dogs, cats, and other pets. Ingesting these plants can lead to severe oral irritation, burning sensations, swelling, swallowing difficulties, drooling, and other symptoms.
3. Growth as Hemiepiphytes: Both  Philodendron and Monstera Deliciosa display hemiepiphytic growth behavior, meaning they can grow as terrestrial plants but also adapt to an epiphytic lifestyle in their mature stage.
4. Inflorescent Flowers on Spadix: Both plants bear their flowers on a spadix, surrounded by a spathe. It’s important to note that many people mistakenly consider the spathe as the actual flower, which it is not.

Differences between Split Leaf Philodendron vs Monstera Deliciosa

1. Leaves

• Monstera Deliciosa: Monstera leaves are known for their distinctive fenestration, featuring splits and holes as they mature. The pinnae on Monstera leaves extend closer to the mid-rib and have a smooth appearance.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: In contrast, Split Leaf Philodendron leaves are shallowly split or lobed, without the characteristic fenestrations. The splits on Philodendron leaves only go halfway and have a wavy appearance. Additionally, the arrangement of Monstera leaves is alternating but can adjust due to the presence of a geniculum, allowing them to move. Tree Philodendron leaves typically form a rosette-like circular arrangement.

2. Stem Size and Appearance

• Monstera Deliciosa:  Monstera Deliciosa has thinner stems, typically measuring between 0.8 to 3.1 inches (2-8 cm). The stems are less woody and may not be as robust as those of Philodendron types.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: Split Leaf Philodendron has thicker stems that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. Notably, it features conspicuous eye-drop-like leaf scars on its stems.

3. Flowers and Fruits

• Monstera Deliciosa: Monstera Deliciosa exhibits white to cream to yellow spathes and white to green inflorescence flowers.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: Split Leaf Philodendron has spathes that are purple to reddish in color and white flowers.

4. Size

• Monstera Deliciosa: In their native habitat, Monstera Deliciosa can grow much taller, reaching heights of 60 to 70 feet. However, as houseplants, they tend to remain smaller.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: In the wild, Philodendron reaches heights of up to 15 feet, making it notably smaller than Monstera Deliciosa in its natural environment.

5. Fruits

• Monstera Deliciosa: The fruits of Monstera Deliciosa are greenish and edible once fully ripened.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: Split Leaf Philodendron produces white to orange to red inedible fruits.

6. Reproductive Maturity

• Monstera Deliciosa: Monstera Deliciosa reaches maturity in about three years.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: Philodendron takes longer to reach maturity, typically around 15 to 20 years.

Growth Habits

• Monstera Deliciosa: Monstera plants tend to climb and require support, such as moss poles, to grow vertically. They can grow about two feet per year and adapt to various light conditions.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: Split Leaf Philodendron grows outward and upward, not requiring vertical support like Monstera. It can double in height quickly and has a more sprawling growth habit.

Origin

• Monstera Deliciosa: Monstera Deliciosa is native to tropical rainforests in Mexico and Central America, where it can grow up to 60 feet tall.
• Split Leaf Philodendron: Philodendron is native to South American rainforests, including Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia, and can reach heights of up to 15 feet.

Health Benefits

• While both plants are not typically grown for their health benefits, Monstera Deliciosa produces edible fruit when fully ripened, rich in vitamins C and B, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, and low in calories. However, it should only be consumed when fully ripe to avoid toxicity.
• There are anecdotal claims that Monstera leaves and fruits may provide relief for arthritis, although scientific evidence is lacking. Both plants are known for their air-purifying qualities, making them attractive and useful household plants.

In conclusion, while Split Leaf Philodendron vs Monstera Deliciosa shares some similarities, they are distinct plants with unique characteristics, growth habits, and appearances. Understanding these differences will help plant enthusiasts identify and care for these beautiful houseplants accurately. Whether you choose one or both for your indoor garden, these plants are sure to add a touch of greenery and elegance to your living space.