About
This tropical evergreen climber, to around 6m high. Mature leaves are up to 70cm long, intense green, and divided almost to the midrib into up to 9 long lobes on each side. White flower spathes are followed by cone-like cream fruits.
About the genus
Monstera are evergreen climbing shrubs with aerial roots, and usually ovate leaves which are often pinnately cut or lobed; arum-like flowerheads with white spathes arise from the leaf axils on mature plants
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants, Climber Wall Shrub
HabitClimbing, Trailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Sub-tropical
Native toC & S Tropical America
ToxicityHarmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost, in bright indirect light with moderate to high humidity. Water when in growth and keep just moist in winter. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly when in growth. See houseplant cultivation and Monstera for further information
PruningPruning group 11
PropagationPropagate by root cuttings or leaf cuttings in summer, or by layering in autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free