Monstera

About Monstera

Monstera plants have unique foliage. They are grown as a climbing vine or standalone, bushy plant, making them suitable for various indoor spaces where they purify the air.

These plants create a tropical, jungle-like atmosphere in any room. They are used in home decor and as accent pieces in photo shoots and interior design projects.

The Monstera plant is known for its distinctive heart-shaped leaves and edible fruit. The leaves of the mature Monstera plant develop large, natural holes, or fenestrations, that give them a unique, tropical appearance.

The fruit of the Monstera is a type of berry commonly referred to as a “Monstera deliciosa fruit” or “Swiss cheese fruit.” It is edible when fully ripe and has a sweet, tropical flavor that is often compared to a combination of pineapple, banana, and mango. The fruit is relatively rare and is not usually produced in indoor growing conditions.

Botanical Name

The botanical name of the Monstera plant is Monstera deliciosa. It is a flowering tropical vine in the Araceae family. The Araceae family contains a diverse range of plants, including many popular indoor plants such as the Pothos, peace lily, and Chinese evergreen.

Plant Type

A Monstera is a hemiepiphyte, which means it lives as an epiphyte for a part of its life. An epiphyte grows non-parasitically on another plant for physical support but obtains its moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, and debris accumulating around it.

Monstera's also grow aerial roots and the primary purpose of these roots is to support the plant. However, they also have the added benefit of absorbing moisture from the air, enhancing turgor pressure, and boosting growth.

Origin

Monstera plants are native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.

Appearance

The large, perforated leaves of the Monstera are its most distinctive feature, making it a popular choice for those seeking a tropical and exotic addition to their indoor space.

Types Of Monstera Plants

There are several common indoor houseplant varieties of the Monstera plant, including:

• Monstera deliciosa is the most commonly grown variety of Monstera and is known for its large, perforated leaves and ability to climb.

• Monstera adansonii is a smaller variety of Monstera, also known as the “Monkey Mask.” It is prized for its smaller leaves with more pronounced perforations.

• Monstera obliqua is a rarer variety of Monstera, known for its elongated, oblong leaves, and is highly sought after by plant enthusiasts.

• Monstera siltepecana is native to Mexico and is known for its smaller leaves and unique leaf markings.

• The variegated Monstera albo or Monstera albo is a rare species but is popular for its green “fenestrated” (areas of different colors) leaves.

• Monstera peru has glossy green leaves with distinctive fenestrations or holes.

• Monstera standleyana has small to medium-sized leaves, typically 20 to 30 cm long and 15 to 20 cm wide.

Monstera Plant Styling 

Monstera plants are popular for their unique foliage and can be styled in a variety of ways to add a touch of tropical and exotic beauty to any indoor space:

• If given the right conditions and support, Monstera plants can be trained to climb and trail, adding a lush, vertical element to any room.

• Hanging Monstera plants can create a dramatic and eye-catching display, especially if grown in a large basket or macrame plant holder.

• Placing a Monstera plant in a large, decorative pot can help make it the centerpiece of any room and add a touch of elegance and sophistication.

• Grouping several Monstera plants, or pairing them with other tropical-looking plants, like Alocasia, bird of paradise, or snake plant, can create a lush and exotic indoor jungle.

Common Problems 

Three common problems with Monstera plants are:

• Brown leaf tips are caused by low humidity, over-fertilization, or the presence of pollutants or minerals in the water used to water the plant.

• Wilting or yellowing leaves can be a sign of over-watering or under-watering. A lack of proper nutrition will also make its leaves turn yellow. Over-watering, under-watering or high levels of fluoride can lead to crispy leaves.

• Pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, can all infest a Monstera plant and damage the leaves and stems.

How To Propagate Monstera

Propagation of Monstera plants is through stem cuttings, air layering, or dividing the plant’s rhizome. To propagate via stem cuttings, take a stem cutting that includes a few leaves, let the cut end callus over, and then plant it in moist soil.

To propagate by dividing the rhizome, gently separate a section of the plant’s root system and pot it in fresh soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

How toxic is Monstera to cats?

Monstera plants are moderately toxic to cats. If ingested, they cause symptoms such as mouth and throat irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, it can cause a blockage in the digestive system.

It’s best to keep Monstera plants out of the reach of cats or choose a different type of plant if you have cats.

Are Monstera plants difficult to maintain?

They are relatively easy to care for with the right conditions and attention. Once you establish a good location and watering schedule, you will find that they are a tough and resilient species that adapts well to various indoor environments.

Does Monstera grow quickly?

Monstera plants can grow quite quickly under the right conditions. They are considered fast-growing vines and can reach lengths of several meters in their natural habitat. When grown as indoor houseplants, they tend to grow more slowly but can still make significant growth over a year or two.