Monstera is a large tropical climbing plant from the Araceae family. It features corky aerial roots and big divided or perforated leaves that look like they have holes or cuts in them, giving rise to two of its other common names: Swiss cheese plant and split-leaf philodendron (while monstera is not a type of philodendron, it is closely related to them). Though there are many varieties of Monstera, the best-known variety is Monstera Deliciosa.
Several varieties are cultivated as indoor plants when young. The holes in the plant give it an extra stylish boost. It’s no surprise that this plant is a source of inspiration in the world of fashion and art. Monstera leaves are not only famous for being found in floral arrangements, but everywhere. Monstera has become ubiquitous indoors, in fashion, restaurants, retail + even branding.
So, monstera may be the perfect houseplant for you if you're looking to create a stylish, bold + tropical feel in your home. This sizable fellow also works perfectly as a decorative room divider and living air conditioner for anyone who could do with some fresh air and privacy. If you don’t have green fingers, Monstera is your new best friend! Keep reading to learn about planting and care below.
Native to the rainforests of Southern Mexico + Central America, Monstera houseplants like standard indoor temperatures between 68-86 degrees. It prefers a warm, humid environment + a good amount of water and gentle sunlight. Place your Monstera where it can receive medium to bright indirect light.
Monsteras are climbing plants and love to ascend vertical surfaces. If you want to grow your monstera to be tall instead of wide, use stakes or moss sticks to guide its growth upward. This houseplant has a dense +bushy shape while young, but as it grows, it wants to vine out. You can keep it bushy with regular pruning, or let it climb up a vertical support for a decidedly bold and tropical look.
Monsteras prefer soil that is consistently lightly moist. Plant in well-draining soil, in a pot with drainage holes. As epiphytes with aerial roots, they are sensitive to overwatering, so don’t let them sit in soggy soil. Water when the top quarter-to-third of the soil feels dry to the touch. Standard liquid plant fertilizer can be applied about once a month during the spring and summer growing season.
Rotate your plant periodically to ensure even growth on all sides and clean the leaves with moist cloth or damp cotton to keep the leaves shiny + keep the plant photosynthesizing efficiently.
If you want to give a gorgeous designer look to your home, stop by GSCO today and grab your own Monstera houseplant.