Split

The Split node forks the growth graph into multiple parallel branches.
Each input is treated as a child stream, with optional delays and index controls.

This is the core mechanism behind branching, enabling trees, shrubs, and tufts.

Concept

• Parallel growth – Each connected input graph is spawned from the same parent.
• Delays – Branches can be staggered in time/iteration.
• Split indices – Optional attributes track sibling identity.
• Depth increments – Each branch can increment split_depth to distinguish hierarchy levels.

Inputs

Input 0 — Graph
The incoming Apex graph (parent branch).

Input 1+ — Child Graphs
Each additional input defines a parallel branch to be spawned at the split.

Output — Graph
The combined Apex graph with all child branches merged.

Parameters

• Delay Growth (delay_growth)
  If enabled, branches can have per-input delay before activation.
• Generate Split Index (split_index)
  Outputs an integer attribute split_index on each child for sibling identification.
• Inputs (multiparm)
  Each input branch has:
  • Delay (delay) – Iterations to wait before this child spawns.
  • Split Vertices (split_vertices) – Whether to separate geometry vertices at the split.
  • Increase Depth (increment_split_depth) – Increments split_depth attribute for this branch.
  • Stamp Parent Attributes (do_copy_attribs) – Copy parent attributes into the new child branch.

Attributes

Split emits and/or modifies:

• split_index – Integer sibling identifier (if enabled).
• split_depth – Hierarchy depth at branching points.
• Inherited attributes: id, parent_id, generation, u, etc.

Workflow

1. Insert Split after a Grow.
2. Connect one or more child graphs into its extra inputs.
3. Configure per-input delay, depth, and copy options.
4. Continue graph construction with Simulate.

How-tos

Simple fork

Connect two Grow nodes into a Split. Both spawn immediately.

Delayed branching

Set Delay = 1 on one input. Its branch activates one iteration later.

Indexed branches

Enable Generate Split Index. Map decorations or effectors differently per sibling.

See also

• Grow – higher-level growth with built-in forking
• Repeat – iterative loops of steps
• Switch – conditional branching