Monstera Deliciosa – Plant Care Information


Monsteras are some of the iconic indoor houseplants right this moment and for good cause. They’re an attention grabbing, low-maintenance tropical plant that appears nice in any area. Our monsteras are nonetheless low and bushy, however they’re climbing vegetation that may develop tall & tree-like too. Right here’s why we selected this straightforward plant for our residence.






The genus monstera consists of over 50 totally different species of vegetation, most identified for his or her massive “monster” leaves with distinct holes and break up edges. As we speak we’ll discuss the preferred houseplant number of monstera: the monstera deliciosa.

What Is A Monstera Deliciosa?

Monsteras are native to the tropical environments of Central America, particularly Mexico. Their massive, distinct leaves are a pure adaptation to outlive within the rainforest. The splits and holes in its leaves (known as “fenestrations”) permit the plant to develop bigger with out getting too heavy, whereas additionally permitting daylight and rain to achieve decrease elements of the plant.


Close up of holes in leaves of monstera deliciosa plant



Within the wild, monstera vegetation additionally develop tasty fruit (that’s the place the “deliciosa” a part of its title comes from) however they hardly ever produce fruit as indoor houseplants. It’s additionally thought of an epiphyte, that are vegetation that develop on or up different vegetation, like timber, with out harming its host. Pothos is one other widespread epiphyte houseplant. That’s why many individuals use stakes to provide their monsteras one thing to climb.

Monstera Deliciosa vs Break up Leaf Philodendron

Monstera deliciosas are additionally known as “Swiss Cheese Vegetation” or “Break up-leaf Philodendrons.” Nonetheless, a monstera is just not a philodendron and that title may cause it to be confused with a Tree Philodendron. These are two completely totally different houseplants usually bought below the Break up Leaf Philodendron title. As you possibly can see under, a monstera’s leaves are typically glossier and fewer frilled alongside the sides.


Monstera deliciosa vs split leaf philodendron comparison



These visible distinctions could also be much less apparent in youthful or smaller vegetation, so we really useful double-checking the label or itemizing for the plant’s scientific title. That approach you’ll get the “split-leaf philodendron” you needed!

How one can Care For Monstera Deliciosa

We have now no endurance for finicky or troublesome houseplants, which is why we love having monsteras! They’re straightforward to take care of and develop comparatively quick, making them a rewarding plant to have round.

Gentle & Placement


Monstera deliciosa in hallway with white wainscotting and picture frames



Monsteras desire medium oblique daylight however can adapt to a variety of lighting conditions. Simply keep away from direct daylight as a result of it will possibly burn the leaves. We have now one thriving in a comparatively low-light hallway, however it’s your decision a location with partial or dappled daylight in case you’re attempting to encourage faster development.

Watering Your Monstera

Monsteras sometimes solely want watering each 1-2 weeks throughout their rising season (spring & summer season). As a result of they’re rainforest vegetation, monsteras are accustomed to dry spells between heavy rains. So don’t fear in case your soil totally dries out between waterings. You may also area out your watering even additional within the fall & winter.

Humidity & Misting

Monsteras love humidity, because of their tropical origins. An indoor humidity of 50-60% is good, which implies they may do properly in most residence environments. You’ll be able to at all times preserve it close to a transportable humidifier or evenly mist the leaves between waterings to encourage development.

Cleansing Leaves


Hand wiping leaf of monstera deliciosa tropical plant care



Take into account wiping or dusting your monsteras leaves with a humid fabric as wanted. This helps it look its greatest, whereas additionally permitting extra daylight onto its floor. You may also buy plant wipes or spray to actually make them shine!

Repotting a Monstera

Your monstera will possible outgrow its pot each 1-2 years. Take into account repotting it into a bigger, well-drained pot with contemporary potting soil to encourage its continued development. If you wish to reuse the identical spot, use this time to prune again development, take away useless roots, and supply your plant with contemporary, nutrient-filled soil.

Staking a Monstera

Since monsters are pure climbers, you possibly can introduce a plant stake to encourage upward development. Stakes are bought in quite a lot of sizes, shapes, and supplies. Simply you should definitely select one applicable for the scale and weight of your plant. Use plant tape or ties to safe it to the stake.

Frequent Issues

Monstera deliciosa vegetation are straightforward to take care of, however don’t be shocked in case you encounter certainly one of these widespread points. Fortunately, they’re straightforward to identify and easy to handle.

  • Brown ideas: Your monstera is getting an excessive amount of solar, inflicting the leaves to burn. Transfer to a brand new location with softer, extra oblique gentle.
  • Yellow leaves: You’re overwatering your monstera. Let the soil totally dry out and permit extra time between waterings. You’ll be able to at all times examine the soil earlier than including water. Whether it is nonetheless moist, wait longer to water.
  • Pests: If you happen to discover small pests, webs, or injury to your monstera leaves, you will have widespread pests like sap-sucking mealybugs, aphids, scale bugs, spider mites, or extra. Take away the pests with a humid fabric and apply neem oil to the bottom of the plant.

Different Monstera Deliciosa FAQs

Are monsteras poisonous to cats?

Monstera leaves are toxic to cats, canines, and people if ingested. It’s most secure to maintain them out of attain of babies or pets who wish to nibble in your houseplants. Fortunately, our canine has zero curiosity in our vegetation.


Monstera deliciosa next to couch with sleeping dog on pillow



Are you able to propagate a monstera?

Monsteras are nice vegetation for propagation. Use clear, sharp shears to chop a mature leaf or stalk just under its node (the place the leaf stem or aerial root meets the stalk). As soon as the lower has a couple of minutes to dry out, submerge the lower finish in water in a transparent vessel. Place the vessel in a vivid spot and alter the water weekly. You’ll be able to even put a number of cuttings in the identical vase for ornamental association or centerpiece. It’s best to see new roots inside just a few weeks and, after a few month, you possibly can switch the roots right into a pot with soil.

Can I develop monstera outdoor?

Monsteras may be grown outdoor in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10-12, which sadly excludes many of the continental United States (aside from areas of South Florida and coastal Southern California). If you happen to dwell in certainly one of these zones, plant your monstera in a location with partial, filtered daylight.

Extra Plant Guides

If you happen to’re in search of extra info on a few of our favourite vegetation (actual and pretend!) try a few of these posts under:

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