The Split Leaf Monstera deliciosa is a large popular easy- care houseplant. These plants have large, leathery, heart-shaped leaves that as the plant matures, will develop splits from the leaf edge to the center vein called cuts. These cuts will begin to appear as the plant matures.
It is not uncommon to find pictures of the monstera framed on walls, engraved on glass doors, or even painted on pillows and bedcovers. Also known as the split-leaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant, and Mexican breadfruit, it is native to Central American rainforests. The plant hails from the arum family like the ZZ plant and peace lilies. Lovers of the plant like it for its broad green leaves that can measure two feet in size. They also cite excellent air-purifying capabilities as one of the fundamental reasons to keep a Monstera deliciosa.
In nature, the Monstera deliciosa is a climbing vine that can grow to be 70 feet tall, growing high into the rainforest canopy. The cuts that develop in the leaves allow the wind to pass through the large leaves without tearing them.
The young plants are very different looking as they do not have the cuts or holes in the leaves. The leaves are also much smaller and closer together. As the plant matures, it will begin to develop the characteristics of the adult plant.
Aside from the fruit that this plant can produce (which rarely develops in houseplants), this plant is toxic if consumed, so keep away from children and pets.
Care
- The Monstera Deliciosa prefers bright, indirect sunlight in the spring and summer and direct sunlight in the fall and winter. If the leaves start turning yellow, your plant is getting too much sun. If the plant doesn't get enough sunlight, then the leaves will not develop the perforations in the leaves that it is known for.
- Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, water thoroughly. Plants that dry out too much will grow much slower than ones that are watered properly.
- The Monstera deliciosa will not do well in temperatures below 50 degrees F
- Plant your Monstera in a fairly large container and repot frequently to promote optimal growth. If cared for properly and given the room to grow, these plants can get quite large fairly fast!
- This plant is toxic to pets