What home would willingly house a green monster? Unless they are Delicious Monsters, the gentle giants of houseplants.
Monstera Deliciosa and their Philodendron cousins, have been greening indoor, and outdoor spaces, for generations. And the term ‘what goes around, comes around’ seems to apply, because these plants are once more on the ‘must have’ list.
There are good reasons for this. Their lobed and perforated bright green leaves are hugely decorative and exotic, yet they are undemanding and easy to care for houseplants. Especially for beginner plant parents.
Although they can grow into monsters, their size can be controlled and there are new mini monstera and philodendron varieties that fit into smaller spaces but with the same impact.
Monstera’s and philodendrons are plants that make a statement. They need space to grow, and especially suit minimalist interiors, adding a hint of tropical jungle. Their appeal, though, is in the pattern of their leaves which is why you so often see it replicated on fabrics, clothing, wallpaper and even crockery.
CARING FOR YOUR MONSTERS
Light: Plants like bright indirect light, similar to the dappled light of their natural environment which is on the forest floor of tropical jungles in Central America. They can grow in lower light but the growth won’t be as fast. If the leaves turn yellow it means they need more light or feeding.
Water: Water once a week. Do not let the soil dry out but keep it slightly moist. Rather slightly under water than over-water as the stems can rot. Don’t let the pots stand in water. Mist the leaves to increase the humidity. A drench and drain every few months will flush out any salts that build up. Keep the leaves healthy and glossy by wiping off any house dust with a damp cloth.
Temperature: Plants cope with normal room temperatures but should be kept out of draughts. They would also do well on a sheltered patio. Don’t expose the leaves to direct sun as they will burn.
Feeding: these are not gross feeders, despite their voracious appearance. Feed with a liquid fertiliser at half strength once a month in spring and summer to maintain the bright green, healthy leaves.
Pruning: If you don’t want your monster to grow too big, keep it in its original pot and prune it back to the size you prefer.
Repotting: Monstera’s grow quite quickly and may outgrow their pots within two years. Replant into a pot that is slightly bigger than its root ball, which will give it space to grow.
Try this: Monstera’s are vining plants that can be trained upwards on a fabric covered pole and kept neat by trimming off excess growth. A good space saver too. The mini Monstera Adansonia is a good companion plant with its unusual leaves.
WHAT’S NEW?
Monstera Adansonia (pictured) is smaller, and slower growing, with unusually lobed leaves. Although smaller in size, it certainly makes a big impact. Use it in a hanging basket, to trail up a staircase or as a feature in a pot. It will be happy if placed a metre or so from a north or east facing window.
Monstera minima also known as Philodendron piccolo, is smaller as well and more manageable with slightly narrower and pointed leaves than Monstera Adansonia. It can also be trained upwards, reaching a maximum height of 1.5m
Philodendron Shangri-la (pictured) is a very compact version of the traditional philodendron, with smaller lobed leaves and a dense, bushy shape. The lush, glossy green leaves make it an attractive home-office, house, and patio plant. Unlike its big daddy, It doesn’t vine and keeps its compact form, growing 60 to 90cm high and wide.
