Everything about this houseplant seems oversized: the leaves with the deep slits, the long aerial roots and the enormous growth make it a visual highlight. The Monstera, also known as window leaf, is ideal for greening large rooms. With its attractive foliage, it ensures higher humidity here and thus improves the air in the room. In addition, it is relatively easy to care for, keep a few basic points in mind.

Water on the leaves is good for the Monstera

growth habit and leaves

The Monstera originally grows in the primeval forests of Central and South America, where it winds its way up to the tops of the giant trees. For this purpose, the window leaf forms long shoots, as well as numerous aerial roots. Depending on the variety, the leaves can grow up to 50 centimeters in size. They are typically pinnately perforated.

Older specimens form the flowering spikes that are typical of the arum family and are surrounded by a white leaf, from which purple or yellow-brown berries develop.

location

Give the monstera a place where it can develop freely. The location should be light and warm, but not in full sun. If the plant is too dark, the pretty leaf division will not occur.

potting and substrate

First fill a drainage layer of expanded clay (€19.73) in the planter, this prevents waterlogging and thus root rot. The substrate should be rich in nutrients and well drained.

It is repotted every one to two years. You can cut back large specimens before this care measure, and the window leaf will willingly sprout again afterwards.

watering and fertilizing

The Monstera tolerates drought better than excess water.

  • Therefore, water moderately but regularly.
  • Use low-lime, stagnant water or rainwater for this.
  • Mist the leaves occasionally
  • Fertilize from April to August at 14-day intervals with a commercially available houseplant fertilizer.

care tips

Wipe the large leaves with a damp cloth once a week. This removes dust deposits and the lush green shines beautifully.

Some find the aerial roots of the Monstera annoying. However, you should not cut these off, as they are essential for the plant to survive. If you are away for a long time, they even make it easier to care for the plants. If you put the aerial roots in a container with water, the window leaf will get the moisture it needs in this way.

pests and diseases

The Monstera is extremely robust and is almost never attacked by vermin or plant diseases.

tips

Unfortunately, the Monstera is poisonous to cats and other pets. If the animals nibble on the leaves, this can lead to significant swallowing difficulties, vomiting and bloody diarrhea. Cat owners should therefore position the attractive houseplant in such a way that house tigers cannot reach it.

Category:

Indoor plants