Monstera epipremnoides, the rarest of the Monstera species

Monstera epipremnoides

Leaves of Monstera epipremnoidesCredit: Gwendolyn Stansbury

Monstera epipremnoidesCredit: Chhe

Exposures: Sun, Half-shade
Hardiness (USDA): 9b (-3.9°C ≤ T° < -1.1°C)
Lifecycle: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen

Family: Araceae
Genus: Monstera
Species: Monstera epipremnoides

Other name:Monstera esqueleto

In the wild, Monstera epipremnoides lives in the tropical forests of Central America. It thrives particularly at altitude, in the mountainous regions of Costa Rica. Because of this specific location, Monstera epipremnoides or Monstera esqueleto is one of the rarest, and most expensive, representatives of the Monstera genus.

How to recognize a Monstera Epipremnoides?

This climbing plant is distinguished by its foliage. A blade can measure between 30 and 55 centimetres. To the touch, the glossy, light-green leaves resemble leather. They are dotted with round holes or incisions running from the center to the tips.

To distinguish a Monstera epipremnoides from a Monstera adansonii, you need to compare their size: the former has larger leaves and incisions than the latter.

Monstera epipremnoides is said to have depolluting properties. Its presence is said to encourage orchids to flourish if they are planted nearby. But the plant is also toxic to pets if ingested.

Our care tips

Monstera epipremnoides 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

Water when the substrate is dry on the surface, for about three centimeters. Use non-calcareous water, such as rainwater, filtered water or mineral water.

Don 't let water stagnate in the planter or saucer, as it may rot the roots.

Misting

Your Monstera epipremnoides loves humidity. But the air in our homes is often too dry! To remedy this, spray the foliage with non-calcareous water.

In addition to increasing humidity, misting dusts the leaves and limits pest attacks.

Repotting

Every year in the spring, repot your Monstera epipremnoides to give it more space.

Obtain a pierced pot one size larger than the previous one. Preferably a terracotta model. This material facilitates water evaporation in the event of over-watering.

Pour in a bed of clay balls or gravel, followed by a layer of potting soil for green plants. You can mix in a little perlite to improve drainage.

Place your Monstera epipremnoides in the center and fill in with substrate to within two centimeters of the edge. If you want to give your plant a climbing habit, add a stake to support it.

To increase humidity, place the pot on a saucer filled with moist clay balls.

Fertilization

To promote the growth of your Monstera epipremnoides, apply fertilizer in spring and summer.

If you want to speed up your plant's growth, feed your Monstera epipremnoides with a green plant fertilizer.

Cleaning

Dust prevents the plant from photosynthesizing. Clean the leaves of your Monstera epipremnoides with a soft, clean cloth.

Pinch

Pinch your Monstera epipremnoides during its growing season.

Monstera epipremnoides These are not plants that are pruned. If your plant grows larger than your living room, you can pinch off the tip of the stem. The plant will stop growing upward and produce new leaves at its base.

Remember that the sap and leaves can cause irritation! Be sure to wear gloves when handling your plant.

Taking cuttings

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

Locate a node on your plant, if possible with an aerial root and at least one leaf. Using a clean, disinfected tool, such as a pair of scissors or pruning shears, cut two centimetres below the node.

Immerse your stem in a glass of water at room temperature. Place the cutting in a sunny, draught-free spot. Remember to change the water to keep it clear.

When the roots are at least three centimetres long, you can repot your young shoot.