Your monstera may not seem like a vine to you, but it is. These lovely creatures are indigenous to the tropical rainforests of Central America1, where they soar to incredible heights from the forest’s base. Although the majority of common monsteras have a similar appearance, part of the fun is determining your type:
- The most well-liked monstera available on the market is Monstera deliciosa, sometimes referred to as the Swiss cheese plant. Its enormous, heart-shaped leaves grow big holes along the main leaf vein and large leaf splits along the outside edge when grown and exposed to enough light. 1
- Monkey mask, often referred to as monstera adansonii, is less typical. The edges of its arrow-shaped leaves do not separate. The perforations, however, are still present inside the leaf edges.
- Although mislabeled plants are widespread, Monstera obliqua is a rare plant that is rarely found for sale. It looks quite similar to Monstera adansonii but has narrower, thinner leaves and more leaf holes.
All monsteras belong to the dangerous Araceae botanical family, which is poisonous to animals if swallowed. 2 Pets should never be taught to consume houseplants or plant pieces, if you have any. Call your veterinarian right away if your pet consumes monstera leaves or stems.
The ideal places for Monstera to grow.
It is not surprising that Monstera prefers a warm, humid climate because they are indigenous to tropical jungles from southern Mexico to Panama. This makes them perfect for interior use. Georgina Reid, a writer and Wonderground’s founding editor, “Monsteras appreciate moisture, warmth, and shade. They are actually pretty difficult to kill and are quite content indoors. If you reside in a chilly climate, don’t even try to plant one outdoors (less than 10C in winter). Given the proper conditions, they are renowned for being tough.”
Georgina advises putting your Monstera deliciosa in a bright indoor location with lots of room for growth for care and upkeep. To let it to breathe and absorb moisture, water once a week or whenever it appears to be getting dry, and dust leaves with a damp cloth.
Outside, where does Monstera deliciosa grow?
Fantastic climbing arum from Central and South America is called Monstera deliciosa. It is well-known for its broad, glossy leaves that are easily recognized by their “windowpane holes. It originates from tropical forests in the wild, where it will spread out until it locates a tree to climb. The plant can reach a height of 10 meters or more once it enters a climbing mode. To recreate the plant’s natural growth pattern as an indoor plant, give it a support like a bark slab or tree branch. It might need to be pruned to maintain it clean. Keep this plant away from things you don’t want its adhesive roots to damage because it will climb buildings, fences, trees, and any other nearby structures if left outside.
Because of the peculiar edible fruit that Monstera deliciosa produces, it is also known as the “Fruit Salad Plant.” The fruit’s flavor is a mash-up of several different tropical fruits, as suggested by its name. Fruiting is rare in an indoor environment but fairly simple to produce on plants in the garden. Outdoor-grown plants can be adapted to thrive under a lot of direct sunlight. The best cropping will result from this.
Monstera can also be planted in the ground beneath a structure. They will clamber along the ground to create an appealing leaf mound as long as they are not allowed to climb. Once planted, they are extremely drought-resistant and frequently live in Brisbane on only natural rainfall.
Care
very simple to maintain. If planted indoors, use a location that is bright and next to a window. Lack of light may cause the plant to tilt or “point towards the light, and if kept too wet, it may damp-off. Monstera may tolerate partial shade or half sun if it is cultivated outside. Long spells of frost will not be tolerated by Monstera deliciosa. Regular application of fertilizers like Troforte and Organic Link will result in lush, vivacious growth.
Where are Monstera deliciosa plants native to?
Uncertainty surrounds the name Monstera’s possible Latin monstrum origin, which refers to the plant’s monster-like leaves. The specific epithet, deliciosa, relates to the edible fruit and implies delightful.
The genus Monstera, which originated in tropical America and is closely related to philodendrons, has roughly 22 species. The range of this particular species extends from Mexico to Panama in the south, but it is also commonly cultivated in other tropical regions. It can grow to a height of 20 meters in its natural habitat, where it uses aerial roots to climb trees in search of light. The thick, fibrous stems from which the aerial roots dangle down resemble drapes. By its aerial roots, the big specimen of Monstera deliciosa at Oxford Botanic Garden clings to the wall of one of the glasshouse corridors. The roots are used in Mexico to make baskets and in Peru to make rope.
The major reason why monstera deliciosa is grown is for its one-meter-long, glossy, dark green leaves. Young leaves have unbroken edges, but as the plant grows older, the leaf edges become deeply sliced and develop elliptic holes. There are also lovely variegated cultivars with cream marbling on the leaves that can offer contrast to other tropical foliage while illuminating a dim area in a room or glasshouse.
The flowers and eventual fruit of this plant are another reason to grow it. The Araceae’s characteristically small blooms are tightly clustered at the base of a whitish spadix and encircled by a lovely creamy white spathe. If the circumstances are ideal, these intricate inflorescences will produce scaly fruit that tastes of pineapple and banana. The only component of Monstera deliciosa that is safe to eat is the ripe fruit, it is crucial to remember this. The unripe fruit includes raphides and trichosclereids, which are needle-like structures that will irritate the throat, while the stems and leaves contain a sap that can cause a rash. The fruit’s tough, green scales naturally peel off when it is ripe, exposing the creamy yellow kernels inside.
Because they can withstand poor lighting and low humidity, Monstera deliciosa is a popular choice for indoor plants, but growth ceases at 10 C. The ideal environment is at least 20 C and heavy humidity. In the past, English hot houses were used to raise Monstera deliciosa for its fruit.
1999 Huxley A. Gardening terms from The New Royal Horticultural Society Dictionary. Dictionary company Groves Inc.
CD Muir, 2013. What caused the Swiss cheese factory’s holes? pp. 273-281 in The American Naturalist 181.
What climate zone does Monstera prefer?
In warm, humid climates throughout USDA Zones 10 through 12, Monstera deliciosa flourishes all year long. Establish it in part-shade in a well-draining soil when growing outside.
Monsteras can they grow outside?
Numerous other names for the monstera deliciosa include the Swiss cheese plant, split leaf philodendron, and Mexican breadfruit. One of the most recognizable leaves in the design industry may be found on this enormous floor plant. Its “Swiss cheese” moniker relates to the recognizable splits and holes in its leaves, while its “breadfruit” moniker alludes to the fruit’s corn-like appearance.
Monsteras have a lengthy history in both interior decorating and fine art. Pictures of the monstera leaf are frequently printed on pillows, mounted on walls, and even suspended alone in a glass vase.
Native to Central America, the monstera can be found in the rainforests from Mexico to Panama. In the same family as popular houseplants like peace lilies and ZZ plants, monsteras are an arum. If you reside in zones 10 or 11, a monstera deliciosa can be grown outdoors. To find out more about the various zones, look at the USDA’s map of plant hardiness zones.
Is Monstera found outdoors or indoors?
In most warm temperate and tropical areas, monstera does best when grown outside in partial shade. Monstera deliciosa is easily adapted inside and will grow in most climes, with the exception of those with extremely frigid indoor temperatures. It is so well-liked as an indoor plant because of this.
Can Monstera survive in Florida’s outdoors?
Araceae, the genus Monstera, contains more than 45 plant species that are indigenous to tropical America and the nearby islands.
In the neotropical rainforests, it develops as hemiepiphytes. Hemiepiphytes go through both terrestrial (ground) and epiphytic growth phases (on other plants). Monstera grows as a terrestrial creeper or climber as a baby or seedling, and as an epiphyte as it ages.
Many Monstera species are attractive indoor plants that are prized in temperate climates for their enormous mature split or fenestrated leaves as well as their whole juvenile leaves. Monstera deliciosa is the most widely used, followed by M. adansonii. Other species include M. obliqua, M. dubia, M. siltepecana, M. lechleriana, M. Peru, etc. The list goes on and on.
The Monstera plant is poisonous or dangerous to cats, dogs, and even humans in all of its sections. Why? because they contain calcium oxalates, which are sharp, soluble needles that, when chewed, would induce intense discomfort and a burning sensation. Expect additional symptoms like edema, trouble swallowing, appetite loss, drooling, etc.
The fruits of Monstera deliciosa are safe and eatable when completely ripe. They taste sweet and taste like a cross between pineapple and banana.
Monstera outdoors growth and care requirements
If you reside in a climate that is conducive to growing plants outdoors, you can grow Monstera in pots or containers or on a raised bed. Outside, these plants will grow bigger than they would inside. They might also grow old and even produce flowers and fruits.
The following are the needs for growth and care:
USDA hardiness zone
The USDA hardiness range for monstera is 10b to 12. These plants are not frost-hardy and cannot withstand freezing temperatures. Only individuals who live in these zones can grow them year-round outdoors.
Some areas of Florida and California are among the US locations where Monstera can be grown outside. These plants also flourish in Hawaii.
These plants can be grown outside of the United States in tropical and subtropical areas as well as warm temperate zones without frost or freezing temperatures.
Temperature and humidity
Since Monstera are tropical plants, they benefit from warmth and humidity. You can go outside as long as the temperature doesn’t drop below 35 F (1.7 C). However, slower growth results from lower temperatures.
These plants will thrive in environments with humidity levels of at least 40% to 50% or higher. By spraying them, you can assist in raising it. Other techniques to enhance humidity include:
- Mulching
- putting trays with water around the plant
- cultivating them among other plants.
Light
They get dappled light from thick rainforest canopies in the wild. You must supply equivalent lighting in your home. So, cultivate them in the shade or under a large tree. A greenhouse or shade cloth are further options.
Deep shade should be avoided as it will limit development. Additionally, if you have a variegated Monstera, such as Thai Constellation, var. borsigiana alba variegata, etc., these plants might not develop the right hue.
However, there won’t be any direct sunlight. Why? Your Monstera will become sunburned; the leaves will appear faded or washed out, and there will be brown tips and margins, among other symptoms. Discover more about the type and quantity of Monstera light needed.
Best soil
It is recommended to grow your Monstera in soil that is rich in organic matter, well-drained, aerated, and pH-balanced between slightly acidic and neutral.
Loamy, well-drained soils are acceptable. However, if they don’t drain well or feel heavy, add additional gravel or perlite. Compost can also be added.
Watering
They require medium irrigation. When the top few inches of the soil feel dry, water them. How frequently depends on your health. It can happen every day or every few days.
Yellow Monstera leaves, withering, or root rot are signs of overwatering. The plant will develop slowly, the soil will be wet, and you might see spots of black or brown color.
On the other hand, drought will make leaves curl, droop or wilt. The plant will also grow slowly, lose leaves, and do other things.
Feeding
Feed your Monstera if you want lush foliage and a healthy plant. Slow-release balanced fertilizers are available as liquid or granular (pelleted) fertilizers. Since we like fluids, you can mix them with water.
If you use liquid fertilizer, it’s acceptable to fertilize once each month. obey the manufacturer’s instructions for slow release.
Last but not least, we advise fertilizing your plant when you notice it is actively developing or adding new leaf.
Pruning
To remove damaged, diseased, or dead leaves, use sanitized gardening shears. If you wish to limit plant development and size, you can also trim a few branches. Do not ever cut more than 25% of the plant at once.
Repotting
Do you cultivate your Monstera in pots outside? Then, you must repot them in the same manner as you would indoor plants.
These plants need to be replanted every year or when they get rootbound while still young and growing quickly. If they are not rootbound, wait 2 to 3 years after they reach the ideal size. Use a pot with a few extra inches in diameter.
Staking
Except for Monstera deliciosa, all of these plants are climbers and won’t mature unless given a place to climb. Stakes are also given when the leaves are bigger, divided, or fenestrated.
You can make use of an arbor, a cedar or bamboo pole, or both. If it was grown beneath a tree, allow it to climb the tree trunk. A great area to climb are walls or fences. You must, however, teach these plants to climb.
Do monstera plants prefer little pots?
Unquestionably, one of the most well-known indoor plants in history is the monstera deliciosa. The characteristic leaves are frequently seen in movies, video games, and printed on at least three pillows at your neighborhood home goods store. In addition to being a true fashion classic, it is also a very resilient and adaptable plant. We delve into the requirements for caring for this plant in this article.
Other names for Monstera deliciosa include “fruit salad plant,” “elephant ear plant,” and “swiss cheese plant.”
When should I water my Monstera deliciosa?
During the warmer months of the year, wait until the soil has dried to at least 50% of its depth. Allow the soil to totally dry up before watering in the winter.
How much light does a Monstera need?
Although they can withstand medium to low light, monstera prefer bright light. A decent test is a room with enough light to read a book by. They will develop more quickly and larger the more light they receive.
When should I fertilize my Monstera?
Mid-Spring to mid-Autumn, apply a liquid fertilizer every other time you water. You can fertilize your plants every time you water them if they are growing quickly in the summer. Fertilize not during the winter.
Should I re-pot my Monstera?
Most indoor plants are very happy to be in small pots and will actually benefit from being a bit root bound. There is never a rush to increase the size of your pot until all the soil has had roots grow through it, just an inch or two.
Light
It is preferable to place your Monstera in the brightest area possible when it is cultivated indoors. A excellent place to start is with enough natural light to comfortably read a book. Make sure your plant doesn’t receive too much afternoon sun in the summer to avoid burning it. Even while a location may be ideal throughout the year, on a day with a temperature of +40°C, the heat and light may be too much for the plant to take.
Monstera may thrive in low-light conditions, however the smaller the leaves are, the less fenestration there will be to grow.
Fenestration refers to the distinctive holes that make a monstera leaf so simple to recognize. Faster growth, bigger leaves, and more fenestration will occur as a result of increased light levels.
Watering
The majority of indoor plants are vulnerable to overwatering. During warm weather, we advise you to water this plant only after the top half of the soil has dried out. Try to let the soil dry up almost completely over the winter.
Depending on the time of year, the location of the plant, and the flow of air, this will take two to four weeks. Please be aware that this is the shortest length of time you can wait; especially in the winter, you can wait much longer!
In severe circumstances, overwatering this plant can cause root rot, darkened leaf tips, and even plant death. However, if you skip watering for a week or two, the plant may not even notice or may simply wilt, giving you a very clear indication that it’s time to water.
Fertiliser
As a plant with a potential for rapid growth, monstera will undoubtedly profit from routine applications of liquid fertilizer. Every second cycle of watering throughout the warmer months of the year—spring and summer—can include some fertilizer. If your plant continues to develop during the winter, you could consider reducing the intensity of your fertilizer and using it less frequently.
Although products made from seaweed, like Seasol, are low in the essential elements for development (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), they are excellent soil conditioners and helpful for avoiding hydrophobia and pot shock.
Repotting
Monstera enjoy being crammed within their containers. Regardless of the size of the pot, they will grow enormous. If you pot your monstera into a huge pot it not grow any faster or larger, most likely it will get root rot from all the excess wet soil, or it will direct more energy to root growth instead of growing any leaves. It is preferable to concentrate more on a pot that complements your aesthetic while repotting and to use that pot for a few years.
It’s better to repot during the warmer months of the year if you do decide to do so. Be cautious to plant it in a container with sufficient drainage (at least one big drainage hole). The soil may dry up a little bit quicker if you choose to use a porous terracotta pot, which can be quite beneficial in preventing over-watering. A premium potting mix is an excellent place to start, but a cacti/succulent mix or even chunky orchid mix works great to help with drainage. Monstera flourish in a well-draining potting mix.
Propagation
After a year or two, Monstera deliciosa’s size as a vine can become painfully obvious. This plant will spread across the ground and climb trees in the wild. You might need to stake the plant as it gets bigger in order to sustain this sprawling epiphyte and keep it standing erect. You can take a clip from the lead portion of the stem if you think the plant is getting too long. This will stop the stem’s growth and promote new shoots to emerge from the lowest parts of the plant.
The cutting can either be submerged in water or planted in wet ground. A node should be present on the stem of your stem cutting for about one inch. If the cutting already has an aerial root, it will grow considerably more quickly. Don’t worry if your cutting loses its leaves; they are not at all necessary because the stems can photosynthesise.
Common Problems
Overwatering is the most frequent problem that you may encounter. This will result in wilting, root rot, blackened leaf tips, and frequently white mold on the soil. Check to see if your pot is draining and if you are watering excessively. Once it is dried, stop watering it again! In extreme circumstances, you might replace the moist soil with dry soil or move the plant outside into a covered area to hasten the drying process. Simply wait. Although this plant is unbreakable, it will take some time. A lot of good airflow will be quite beneficial.
If your plant isn’t getting enough light, it will grow long, leggy, and floppy to help it reach a potential light source. The internodes will be longer and the leaves will be more sparse. Stake the plant and/or relocate it to a more sunny area. It must be a permanent shift; periodically moving the plant into a bright area will not work.
The most frequent pests are mealybugs, scale, and gnat flies, but I have never found M. deliciosa to be particularly vulnerable to insect invasion. The best course of action is to manually remove them to halt the spread right away, and then obtain a solution like neem oil, which will eradicate a variety of unpleasant creatures while being extremely safe and non-toxic.