Leaves of Monstera deliciosa

Credit: Forest and Kim Starr

Leaves of Monstera deliciosa

Credit: Michel Pansiot

Monstera deliciosa flower and fruit

Credit: Michel Pansiot

Monstera deliciosa fruit

Credit: Michel Pansiot

Monstera deliciosa, the false philodendron with cut leaves

Is it still necessary to introduce Monstera deliciosa? With its large, dissected leaves, this South American root has become the star of our living rooms, social networks and interior design.

How to recognize the false philodendron, Monstera deliciosa?

Monstera deliciosa is a hemiepiphytic perennial. It grows by climbing trees. In its natural habitat, it grows to over 20 meters tall. When grown in a pot with a stake, false philodendron reaches a height of three meters.

The thick, bright-green stems bear brown aerial roots. Thanks to these, Monstera deliciosa clings to canopy trees (or any other support) and captures moisture.

False philodendron is renowned for its varnished, cut foliage. The largest leaves are up to a meter long. The limbs at the top are deeply perforated. Those at the base are full and heart-shaped, like those of philodendron. In fact, the fenestrations are not there just for the pleasure of collectors! They allow light to reach the base of the plant.

The botanical variety has plain, bright green leaf blades. However, there are also variegated white varieties Monstera variegata) and cream spotted Monstera 'Thai Constellation.

Monstera deliciosa produces inflorescences called spadices. These consist of a pale yellow central spike enveloped by a white spathe.

The flower gives rise to a cone-shaped fruit, the ceriman. Its taste is similar to that of pineapple and banana.

Although the fruit is edible, the plant is toxic. It contains calcium oxalates that are harmful to humans and animals. False philodendron causes skin irritation when handled and digestive problems when eaten.

Our maintenance tips

Monstera deliciosa are not difficult to care for. Regular watering, a little moisture, a pot optimized for drainage and a little fertilizer are all that's needed.

Watering

Monstera deliciosa needs a regular supply of water. But, like many plants, the plant cannot tolerate excess. Check that the potting soil has dried on the surface (two to three centimetres) before watering. If this is the case, use non-calcareous water at room temperature. You only need to moisten the root ball, not the soil.

Don't forget to drain off any stagnant water in the saucer or planter. It could rot the roots.

Spray

Monstera deliciosa plants require a high level of humidity. Spray foliage with non-calcareous water, preferably rainwater.

Repotting

In spring, transfer your Monstera deliciosa to a larger pot, so that it can continue to grow.

Monstera deliciosa likes to be cramped. Re-pot only when the roots begin to emerge from the pot.

In a pierced terracotta pot, pour a layer of clay balls. Add a mixture of houseplant potting soil and perlite.

Clean the root ball of your Monstera deliciosa by removing the remains of the previous substrate. Place your specimen in the center of the pot and cover with potting soil. To allow the roots to breathe, pack gently as you go along.

Monstera deliciosa if you like stakes for hanging, don't hesitate to supply one.

Fertilization

You can stimulate the development of your plant during its growth phase, in spring and summer, with fertilizer.

To promote the growth of your monstera deliciosa, use a green plant fertilizer.

Cleaning

Dust prevents leaves from absorbing light and slows photosynthesis. You can use a brush or feather duster to clean the foliage.

Pinch

Pinch your Monstera deliciosa during its growing season.

There may be several reasons why you want to deadhead your Monstera deliciosa: to contain its growth, to multiply the plant or to stimulate its development.

Use your fingers or sharp, disinfected secateurs to cut between two knots.

Wear gloves when handling your plant.

Cutting

Cutting is carried out during the strong growth phase, generally in spring and early summer.

Locate a node on the stem with at least one leaf and aerial roots. Cut off two centimetres below with clean, sharp secateurs.

Soak your cutting in a glass of water at room temperature. Only the stem end should be immersed. Change the water every three days to keep it clear.

Place your cutting in a bright spot away from direct sunlight.

Diseases / Threats

Information

Family	Araceae - Araceae
Type	Monstera - Monstera
Species	Monstera deliciosa - Monstera deliciosa
Lifecycle	Perennial
Foliage	Evergreen
Exposures	Sun Half-shade
Substrats	Clay soil Humus soil Sandy soil
Planting method	In pots
Categories	Climber Interior
Tags	Edible fruit Beginner Large pot Increvable Toxic
Origin	Central America
Hardiness (USDA)	10a
Leaf color
Flower color
Fruit colors