split-leaf philodendron

noun

ˈsplit-ˈlēf- 

variants or split leaf philodendron

plural split-leaf philodendrons or split leaf philodendrons

: a monstera (Monstera deliciosa) of southern Mexico to Panama that is often grown as a houseplant and that has large, glossy, deeply incised or perforated leaves, an erect floral spadix enclosed in a white to yellow concave bract, and an elongated, scaly, sweet fruit

To emulate their growing habit in nature, split-leaf philodendrons in our homes are commonly grown to climb on a moss pole that allows the aerial roots to attach and take in moisture as they would in the wild.

—Helen Chesnut

The split leaf philodendron … is known for its tropical oversize leaves with what appears to be cuts within them.

—Tom Bruton

Note: While this plant is no longer classified as a true philodendron, the names split-leaf philodendron and cut-leaf philodendron still continue to be commonly used. This plant is also known as ceriman, Mexican breadfruit, and Swiss cheese plant.

Examples of split-leaf philodendron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Also known as the Swiss cheese or window leaf plant, the split-leaf philodendron is native to tropical forests in Central America, including Panama and southern Mexico. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 4 Dec. 2023

The 10-inch split-leaf philodendron can grow and climb up to 10 feet tall with proper care. —Kaitlyn McInnis, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined above