Indoor specimens often grow to 4-5 feet in height. Those which grow in their native rainforest environments can often get to ten feet or more!
These plants themselves aren’t edible, and in fact they’re poisonous. But they produce a fruit called the monster fruit which is edible when ripe. Don’t bite into an unripe one, though! These fruits are full of oxalic acid when unripe and can irritate your throat!
With a scientific name that literally means “delicious monster”, you can’t go wrong. This unusual plant will bring lots of tropical color to your living space!
Outside of its natural tropical habitat, monstera plants are less hardy. They require warm temperatures and humidity to really thrive. Here’s some hints on the best conditions you can house your plant in.
Your monstera plant loves bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight will cause it to burn, and it takes surprisingly little!
Too much water, and your monstera deliciosa is susceptible to rot issues. But too little, and it may wilt. Let’s go over the best way to water and provide the right humidity for your plant.
Light Bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sun.
Water Keep soil moist but do not overwater
Temperature 68-86 degrees Fahrenheit
Humidity Rainforest plant, requires high humidity
Soil Loamy, well-draining soil
Fertilizer Regular applications of diluted liquid fertilizer or organic granular fertilizer
Pests Spider mites & scale insects/mealybugs
Diseases Not subject to most plant diseases, but can develop root rot if excessively watered