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Split-Leaf Philodendron (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum) growing in South Florida
FLEPPC FLEPPC Category IIGrade Florida #1

Split-Leaf Philodendron — South Florida Plant Guide

Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum

Family: Araceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

tropical foliage specimenfoundation plantingmass tropical bordercorner accent

Style Tags

tropicalresortbold foliagejungle

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial SunPartial Shade

Water Requirements

Low3/10

Once established (12–18 months), Split-Leaf Philodendron is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Moderate water. 2-3x per week dry season. Consistent moisture for best leaf size. Drought tolerant once established but leaves wilt in severe drought.

Soil and Fertilization

sandylimestoneloamorganic

Fertilizer: Balanced 8-2-12 with Mg — tropical foliage formula.

Schedule: February, May, September balanced fertilizer with micronutrients.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
615 ft
Mature Width
815 ft
Growth Rate
fast
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida #1
Installed Cost
$$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
FLEPPC Category II
Iguana Rating
5/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Split-Leaf Philodendron at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Split-Leaf Philodendron grow in South Florida?

Split-Leaf Philodendron has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Split-Leaf Philodendron safe for pets?

Split-Leaf Philodendron is not safe for pets. TOXIC — calcium oxalate crystals cause intense burning of mouth, throat, excessive drooling in pets. Mandatory disclosure to all pet owners.

How much water does Split-Leaf Philodendron need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Split-Leaf Philodendron is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Split-Leaf Philodendron tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Split-Leaf Philodendron has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Split-Leaf Philodendron available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Split-Leaf Philodendron is classified as: allowed. Legal.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Legal. FLEPPC Category 2 invasive — disclose.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

View County Guide →

Broward County

Allowed

Legal. FLEPPC Category 2.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

View County Guide →

Palm Beach County

Allowed

Legal. FLEPPC Category 2.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Legal. FLEPPC Category 2.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Legal. FLEPPC Category 2.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

View County Guide →

Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

Need a Spec Sheet?

Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.

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Ask about Split-Leaf Philodendron

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.