Plant care guide

Monstera Deliciosa

Monstera deliciosa

The split-leaf silhouette that anchors a reception area.

Monstera Deliciosa (Monstera deliciosa)Plant care guide

Care guide

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  • 1Bright direct light
  • 2Bright indirect light
  • 3Medium light
  • 4Low light
Monstera Deliciosa grows best in zones 2 and 3.

Watering requirements

Water every 7–10 days, letting the soil dry to the right level between waterings.

Sunlight requirements

Thrives in medium to bright indirect light. Not suited to intense, direct sun.

Humidity requirements

Normal room humidity will do. Keep it away from direct AC airflow.

Pet-friendly plant?

Not verified. Keep it out of reach of pets and check with your vet if unsure.

Care level

Easy

Best setting

Indoor

Statement Piece

About Monstera Deliciosa

Large, deeply split leaves make this a go-to statement plant for lobbies and reception desks — it needs floor space and bright indirect light to develop its full leaf shape.

Give it bright light and a support pole and it will grow its famous split leaves.

Where it works best

  • Reception & lobby feature
  • Large open-plan floor space

How to care for Monstera Deliciosa

Sunlight

Needs bright, indirect light to develop the splits in its leaves. In low light it stays small with solid leaves.

Water

Water when the top 3–4 cm of soil feels dry, then water thoroughly and let the excess drain. Expect roughly every 7–10 days, and less in the monsoon or in cold air-conditioned rooms.

Humidity & temperature

Does best in average to humid air at 18–32°C. In dry offices, wipe the leaves regularly and avoid placing it directly in front of an AC vent.

Soil & feeding

Use a chunky, well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 4–6 weeks in the growing season.

Pruning

Remove yellow or damaged leaves at the base with clean scissors, and trim to control height or shape in spring.

Propagation

Divide offsets at repotting, or take stem cuttings that include a node. Root them in water or moist mix during the warm growing season.

Common problems

  • Symptom

    Leaves without splits

    Cause

    Young plant, or not enough light.

  • Symptom

    Yellow leaves

    Cause

    Overwatering or poor drainage.

  • Symptom

    Brown edges

    Cause

    Dry air or inconsistent watering.

Frequently asked questions

Does it need a support pole?

A moss pole or sturdy stake helps it grow upright and produces larger, more split leaves as it climbs.

What are the aerial roots for?

They help the plant anchor and climb. Tuck them into the pot or along the pole; they can be trimmed if they become untidy.

Is it safe for pets and children?

Keep Monstera Deliciosa out of reach of pets and small children. Many ornamental plants can irritate the mouth or stomach if chewed. If a pet or child eats part of the plant, contact a vet or doctor.

Care guidance is general advice for Indian indoor and outdoor conditions. For plants in a Bonita maintenance programme, our team looks after watering and feeding for you.

Monstera Deliciosa

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Photo courtesy: Monstera Deliciosa by Wikimedia Commons contributor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.