Monstera
Monstera is a genus of climbing tropical aroids known for large, fenestrated leaves and strong, structural growth. While often sold as compact houseplants, most species are natural climbers that develop dramatically larger leaves when given adequate light and vertical support. With consistent care, Monstera plants can thrive indoors for decades.
Common species & Cultivars
(Care applies broadly across most Monstera species and cultivated varieties.)
Monstera deliciosa (including variegated forms such as Thai Constellation and Albo)
Monstera adansonii
Monstera standleyana
Monstera siltepecana
Care at a glance
LIGHT
Bright, indirect light preferred.
WATER
Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings.
SOIL
Well-draining, airy aroid mix.
TEMP
65-85°F
GROWTH
Climbing
DIFFICULTY
Easy to moderate
Light
Monstera grows best in bright, indirect light, where leaf size, fenestration, and overall vigor are strongest. Insufficient light results in smaller leaves, reduced or absent fenestrations, and slower growth.
Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch leaves, especially variegated cultivars.
Light should be understood as food for plants. Intensity matters more than distance alone. Bright, indirect light generally means being close to a window without exposure to strong direct sun during peak hours. A light meter is highly recommended to accurately assess conditions.
For Monstera species, these are the light ranges to target:
Ideal (best growth & fenestration): 150-300 foot-candles
Acceptable (survival to moderate growth): 100-150 foot-candles
Upper limit (indirect or diffused only): 300-400 foot-candles
Aim to maintain these light levels for as many hours as possible daily. If using a grow light, have the light timed for 12 hours.
Important note:
Variegated Monstera require brighter light to maintain patterning
M. deliciosa tolerates a wider light range than smaller species; you can acclimate it to gentle, direct sun (1,000-4,000 foot-candles) as long as you do so very slowly
Low light delays fenestration and mature leaf development
There are two forms of the natural M. deliciosa; large-form and small-form. It is important to realize that small-form will never get as large, or have as many fenestrations, as a large-form will achieve
Water
Water thoroughly when the top portion of the soil has dried. Monstera prefers evenly moist soil but is sensitive to prolonged saturation, particularly in dense mixes or low light. Overwatering is more harmful than brief dryness. Consistent watering habits matter more than strict schedules.
Use a wooden stick, chopstick, or your finger and push it into the soil 2 inches. If there is soil sticking, then it is moist and does not need watered; if there is no soil sticking, it is dry and needs watering. Another option is to get a moisture meter and push it down into the soil to see if the soil is wet, moist, or dry. Keep in mind that these are not always super accurate and should not be left in the soil.
Signs of watering issues:
Yellowing leaves: often means excess moisture or poor drainage
Drooping leaves: soil too dry for extended periods
Brown, mushy patches: overwatering
Curling edges: inconsistent watering
Soil
Use a well-draining, airy aroid mix that allows oxygen to reach the roots. A quality base mix amended with orchid bark, perlite, or pumice works well.
Roots decline quickly in compacted or waterlogged soil.
Repot only when roots are visibly crowded. Monstera actually does very well if allowed to be more rootbound than other genera.
Remember, when uppotting to a larger pot, only increase your pot size by about 2 inches. Going much larger than the pot you had can cause excess moisture to be held in the soil and can cause root rot.
Growth & Habit
Natural climbers with strong aerial roots
Benefit greatly from vertical support (moss poles, planks)
Vertical growth encourages larger leaves and increased fenestration
Pruning can be used to manage size or redirect growth
Pruning will NOT encourage bushier growth with Monstera
Without support, Monstera remains smaller with fewer fenestrations. Upright growth allows Monstera to reach its full visual potential.
common issues
Lack of fenestration: insufficient light or no vertical support
Yellow leaves: excess water or dense soil
Small leaves: low light or inconsistent care
Pests: spider mites, thrips, or mealybugs, usually linked to stress
Long-Term Care Notes
Monstera thrives on stability rather than frequent adjustment. Consistent light, regular watering habits, and infrequent repotting produce the healthiest long-term growth.
Given time, support, and patience, Monstera plants develop dramatic foliage and a strong architectural presence indoors.