Propagation Guide

Rhizome Division

Dividing crawling aroids at the rhizome

Rhizome division is used for aroids that grow from a horizontal stem (rhizome) at or just below the soil surface, rather than climbing upright. Philodendron gloriosum, sodiroi, and related species all grow this way. Division involves cutting the rhizome into sections, each with at least one growing point or node, and establishing each section separately. It's a reliable method but requires a mature, multi-stemmed plant and good aftercare.

Best For

  • Philodendron gloriosum, sodiroi, pastazanum and related crawling species
  • Mature plants with multiple growing points along the rhizome

What You Need

  • Sharp, sterilised blade (a clean knife is better than scissors for rhizomes)
  • Fungicide powder or cinnamon to dust cut surfaces
  • Fresh well-draining substrate
  • Wide, shallow pots — suited to crawling root systems
  • Clear bag or propagation box for aftercare

Step by Step

  1. 1

    Wait for the right time

    Divide in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Avoid dividing in winter when the plant's energy reserves are low and recovery is slow.

  2. 2

    Remove the plant from its pot

    Gently remove the plant and shake loose most of the substrate. You want to see the full rhizome structure clearly before cutting.

  3. 3

    Identify division points

    Look for sections of rhizome that have their own visible growing tip (a point from which new leaves emerge) or dormant bud. Each division must include at least one growing point to succeed.

  4. 4

    Make clean cuts

    Using a sterilised blade, cut firmly through the rhizome at a point between growing sections. A single clean cut is better than sawing, which can cause more tissue damage.

  5. 5

    Treat the cut surfaces

    Dust each cut surface with cinnamon or sulphur-based fungicide powder. Allow to callous in open air for 30–60 minutes before potting.

  6. 6

    Pot each division

    Pot each division into fresh substrate in a wide, shallow container. The rhizome should sit at or just below the surface — do not bury deeply. Water lightly.

  7. 7

    Maintain high humidity during recovery

    Divisions often sulk for 2–6 weeks before producing new growth. Maintain 65–75% humidity and avoid overwatering during this period. New leaves are a sign of successful establishment.

Tips for Success

  • Never divide a struggling plant — only healthy, established specimens recover well from division
  • Larger divisions (2+ growing points) establish faster than minimal single-node sections
  • Cinnamon is an effective natural antifungal for treating cut surfaces
  • A heat mat helps prevent shock during recovery — keep at 22–24°C

Common Mistakes

  • Dividing in winter when the plant has reduced vigour
  • Cutting through or too close to a growing tip — this delays or prevents recovery
  • Overwatering freshly divided plants whose roots are reduced and cannot absorb excess moisture
  • Burying the rhizome too deep, which encourages rot