If you're looking for a houseplant that's trendy and relatively easy to grow, Monstera Deliciosa might be just the one for you.
This fascinating tropical plant, also known as "Monstera" or "Breadfruit" or even incorrectly as Philodendron (but it is not), has become an icon in interior design thanks to its large and showy leaves and its ease of maintenance.
In this article, we will explore the origins, characteristics, and needs of Monstera Deliciosa to help you successfully grow it in your home.
Origins and Original Habitat
Monstera Deliciosa is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, in particular Mexico and the jungles of Central America (Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama).
This plant thrives in the rainforests of these areas, where it grows as an epiphyte or climbing plant. In these areas, in fact, it grows vigorously in humid and shaded environments, climbing trees through its aerial roots.
This plant was first discovered in the 17th century by European colonizers and has since become a beloved houseplant around the world.
Characteristics of Monstera Deliciosa
One of the most iconic characteristics of Monstera Deliciosa is that of having beautiful heart-shaped leaves with large slits, which give it an exotic and fascinating appearance.
These leaves can grow up to 3 feet long or more, creating a stunning visual impact in any setting.
Monstera is a semi-epiphytic plant, which means that in nature it can grow both in the ground and on trees. When it grows as an epiphyte, it uses its aerial roots to anchor itself to tree trunks and climb towards the light. In a home environment, it can be grown in the ground in a pot and can also be supported by stakes or trellises to encourage its vertical growth.
Ideal Location in Apartment
One of the reasons Monstera Deliciosa is so popular as a houseplant is its tolerance of indoor growing conditions. However, for it to thrive best, it is important to provide it with the right environment. Here are some important considerations:
- Light : Monstera appreciates bright indirect light or filtered light. Avoid direct exposure to the sun, which could burn the leaves.
- Temperature : this plant develops well at temperatures between 18°C and 24°C. Avoid sudden changes in temperature and cold drafts. In winter, absolutely do not place it near radiators or heat sources.
- Soil: one of the most important things for this plant, together with temperature and watering, is the choice of the type of substrate, which must be well drained and soft. The ideal is a mix of soil for houseplants with the addition of perlite, pumice and orchid bark (composed of pine bark and coconut fibre). You can find it available on my e-commerce in the category called "Growing accessories".
- Humidity : Being native to tropical jungles, Monstera loves humidity. Spraying the leaves with water or using a humidifier can help maintain the right level of humidity.
- Watering : Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Excess water can cause root rot.
- Fertilization : Feed your Monstera during the growing season (spring-summer) with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
The Needs of Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Deliciosa is a plant that is generally easy to care for, even suitable for less experienced people, but there are some key needs to consider:
- Pruning : To keep the plant in shape and encourage more compact growth, prune any excess branches or leaves. If you can cut the stems near the nodes and perhaps some already developed aerial roots, don't throw them away! You can root them in water and get new Monstera plants from them at 0 cost!
- Support : If you choose to grow your Monstera as a climber, provide it with support such as a commercially available coir climbing support or by building a sphagnum pole yourself.
- Pest Control : Check leaves regularly for pests such as aphids or mites and treat them promptly if necessary. If you find white material and feel sticky leaves, the culprit is definitely cochineal, which is common when a very hot and very humid environment is created. You can use natural DIY remedies or commercially available products to eradicate it.
- Cleaning the leaves : a gesture unknown to many but of vital importance. All houseplants benefit from and need cleaning of the foliage from the dust that settles on them, as they cannot do this naturally through rain. This cleaning, even more necessary for the Monstera Deliciosa due to its large leaves, allows the plant to "breathe" and carry out photosynthesis correctly, otherwise it will cause health problems for the plant and drying out its beautiful leaves.
- Repotting : Repot your Monstera every 2-3 years or when the roots outgrow the current pot. Don't repot it every year because it usually doesn't need it. When choosing the new vase, pay attention to the measurements! It only needs to be a few centimeters larger in diameter; an excessively large pot will lead your plant to almost certain death, primarily due to the excess humidity that would remain in the soil, causing rotting of the roots.
- Humidity: in periods where the air is drier, such as in winter due to heating and during summer, to increase the humidity of the air around the plant you can place expanded clay pebbles in its saucer and fill it with some water, or use a humidifier. If you have multiple plants I recommend accumulating them all together (in a suitable spot based on their needs) to create a humid area; these will help each other find a balance and you will concentrate the humidity in a single point of your home. Also don't forget to spray water, strictly non-calcareous, on the foliage. Non-calcareous, i.e. not normal tap water, unless you have a water softener. You can use distilled water, rain water or take tap water in a basin and let it settle for a few hours before using it.
In conclusion, Monstera Deliciosa is an exceptional houseplant, thanks to its unique characteristics and ease of care. With proper care, you can enjoy the tropical charm of this plant in your home, bringing a touch of jungle to your rooms.
Monstera Deliciosa is one of the tropical plants that I produce myself. You can find it in the products section of my site, "Tropical Plants" category.
For other information and curiosities about Monstera Deliciosa, also read the article on my other blog "ViolVaio" Here is the link to the article:
https://violvaio.home.blog/2024/02/01/monstera-deliciosa-la-pianta-da-apartment-piu-trendy
