Monstera deliciosa

The Monstera deliciosa is probably the most popular indoor plant worldwide. Its dramatic fenestrated leaves and architectural habit make it an instant statement piece. It’s a hemi-epiphytic vine native to the humid tropical forests of Mexico, where it climbs along trunks using aerial roots.

What you really need to know

The Monstera is surprisingly easy as long as you avoid overwatering — the leading cause of death for this species. Always check that the top 3 cm of soil are dry before watering. Place it in bright indirect light, add a moss pole to encourage fenestrations, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular growth (30 to 60 cm per year).

Light

Bright indirect light is optimal. Near an east- or west-facing window, or 1-2 m from a south-facing one filtered through a sheer curtain. Avoid prolonged direct sun, which scorches the leaves. The Monstera survives in low light but new leaves stay small and unfenestrated.

Watering

Water when the substrate is dry on the top 3-4 cm. On average: every 7 days in summer, every 14 days in winter. Always water deeply until water runs through the drainage holes, then empty the saucer. The Monstera should never sit in water.

Humidity and temperature

Ideal between 60-80 % humidity and 18-25 °C. In winter, central heating drops indoor humidity below 35 %: use a humidifier or group your plants to create a microclimate.

Mistakes to avoid

• Watering on a fixed schedule without checking soil — the #1 killer
• Letting it sit in standing water — root rot in 48 hours
• Cutting aerial roots for aesthetics — those roots absorb moisture and provide stability
• No support — without a moss pole the plant stays juvenile and rarely fenestrates

Toxicity

⚠️ Toxic to cats, dogs and children: every part contains calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth and esophagus when ingested. Keep out of pets’ reach.

Propagation

The Monstera roots easily in water. Cut 1-2 cm below a node with an aerial root, place in a jar, change water every 5 days, transfer to soil when roots reach 8-10 cm. See our complete water propagation guide.

Cultivars to discover

• Monstera deliciosa “Thai Constellation”: stable cream variegation
• Monstera deliciosa “Albo Variegata”: unstable white variegation, highly sought after
• Monstera adansonii: smaller leaves with holes but no splits