Monstera deliciosa
Monstera
Monstera is a tropical climber with large, split leaves. It's easy to care for as long as it gets enough light and you don't overwater it.
Toxic to cats and dogs.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Watering
- When the top layer dries
- Humidity
- Average to high
- Pets
- Toxic
Care in detail
"Bright indirect" means the plant can see a large part of the sky from the window, but the sun doesn't fall directly on its leaves for long. Light drops sharply just a few steps from a window: about 400–800 foot-candles at the window, and up to about 50 deep in the room.
Water when the top layer of soil has dried out, and always check with your finger first. Too much water is the monstera's most common problem.
In winter the plant grows slowly: water less often and pause fertilizer until spring. Keep it away from heaters and streams of hot air. An old lower leaf turning yellow is often normal in winter.
- Yellow leaves and wet soil: probably overwatering.
- Tiny dots and fine webbing under the leaf: spider mites. Rinse them off with water, and use insecticidal soap if needed.
Monstera contains insoluble calcium oxalate, which irritates the mouth: pain, drooling, vomiting. If your pet has eaten it, contact a vet.
Sources: RHS · ASPCA · Illinois Extension · Iowa State University Extension · Darryl Cheng, "The New Plant Parent"