Monstera
Monstera is an easy-care, tropical flower in the genus of cold plants. Monstera is very popular as a houseplant, not least because of the perforated leaves that give the plant its unique appearance. Monstera is suitable for those who want a lot of greenery in a room because it can grow relatively large. In warmer climates, monstera is a popular garden plant, but since it originates from South America, it needs to be kept indoors.
Planting habits
In its natural habitat, monstera is a climbing plant that can reach a height of 10 meters with leaves that can reach a diameter of 50 cm. As a houseplant, monstera works well in an ampel. You can also give it support under the aerial roots if you want a climbing plant indoors. Aerial roots are above-ground growths that help the monstera to climb. They can also take up water and nutrients from the air.
Different types of monstera
More varieties of monstera are available in the trade. Monstera varieties differ from each other in that they can have different sizes, growth habits and varying leaf shapes and patterns. Here are some of the most common varieties:
- Monstera deliciosa
- Monstera adansonii
- Monstera variegata
Monstera deliciosa is the variety most people have. Its leaves are heart-shaped and can grow very large. Monstera adansonii is smaller and is sometimes called small monstera. Monstera variegata are not as common and have leaves that can be white or marbled.
Monstera - care
Monstera is known to be an easy-care houseplant that suits everyone. However, how you look after it will affect how big it grows and how it thrives. Here are some tips for caring for a monstera that will give the plant the best possible conditions:
- Monstera thrives in a location with indirect sunlight.
- Plant in well-drained soil to reduce the risk of roots rotting.
- Increase the humidity if you can. You can do this by spraying the monstera leaves with water from time to time, for example.
- The stalk may need to be supported with flower sticks, for example, if it becomes heavy.
- Monstera needs regular watering, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
- Use liquid fertilizer at one-month intervals during spring and summer.
Take cuttings of monstera
By taking a monstera cuttings, you can easily propagate your houseplant. Cut or cut off a shoot with at least two leaves. Preferably just below an aerial root if your monstera has formed such. Remove the bottom leaves. Ideally, the cuttings should still have two or three leaves. Plant the cuttings in a pot where you have just watered the soil so that it is moist. Cover it with a plastic bag so that the humidity is raised. After two weeks, the cutting has formed roots and you can remove the plastic bag.
The fruit of the monstera is edible
The fruit of a monstera resembles a cone in shape. It grows out of the stem and can be eaten fresh. You can also blend the monstera fruit into smoothies or try boiling it. As for the taste, opinions differ. A common opinion is that it tastes like a milder version of pineapple. Not everyone likes the taste, but it's worth trying if you have a monstera that produces fruit. The leaves of the monstera should not be eaten. They can cause mouth irritation and stomach upset.
Author: Johanna DammFact checked by Erik HoekstraLast updated 2024-01-09
