In this article, we will address everything you need to know about the Monstera deliciosa, including what it is, where it comes from, and if you can grow it indoors or out. We will also go over some of the most popular types or cultivars of Monstera deliciosa so that you can find one that matches your home best. Let’s get started now!
What is a Monstera Deliciosa?
Also known as the split-leaf philodendron or the Swiss cheese plant, Monstera deliciosa has risen in popularity over the last few years. They are typically kept as a houseplant, but they also thrive outdoors in proper climates and temperatures. The large leaves of this plant are what make it so special. Some leaves reach up to 3 feet long on giant specimens! Speaking of large leaves, the Monstera deliciosa can reach up to 65 feet tall in certain climates or conditions. All monstera plants enjoy climbing and require structural support once they reach a certain size. But where exactly do Monstera deliciosa plants come from and what climate do they thrive in?
Where Do Monstera Deliciosa Plants Come From?
Native to Mexico and all the way down to Panama, Monstera deliciosa plants live in tropical forests and humid environments. They are often found climbing on trees or other structures, reaching enormous heights and sizes. These plants can also spread, some of them reaching up to 8 feet wide! If you were curious about the namesake of the Monstera deliciosa, this particular plant produces Mexican breadfruit when grown in the wild. In addition, its aerial roots are used as rope or fiber in some locations. This makes the monstera so much more than an average houseplant!
Types of Monstera Deliciosa
There are not very many different types or cultivars of Monstera deliciosa. However, there are some variegated monsteras that are all the rage among plant enthusiasts and houseplant lovers. Keep in mind that they are extremely rare and expensive. Some variegated monsteras cost thousands of dollars depending on how established they are! The monstera borsigniana is a type of Monstera deliciosa despite them having two different names. The holes on the monstera borsigniana grow in a much more even fashion compared to the Monstera deliciosa, though many people can’t really tell the difference between these two large beauties.
Can I Grow a Monstera Deliciosa Indoors?
Yes, you can absolutely grow a Monstera deliciosa indoors. In fact, this is one of the most popular indoor-grown house plants worldwide. monstera plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and an average temperature of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that indoor temperatures align very well with this particular plant, so long as you mist it or provide it with humidity in another way. When grown indoors, monstera plants reach up to 10 feet tall, but they typically don’t grow larger than this. However, a 10-foot tall monstera plant likely has at least 5 feet as its spread, which means you need plenty of space for this monster! You should also make sure to keep your monstera plant damp but not too wet. Plus, give it some structural support if it reaches over 3 feet tall.
Can I Grow a Monstera Deliciosa Outdoors?
If you live in a very specific environment, you can definitely grow a Monstera deliciosa outside in your own backyard or garden. However, Monstera deliciosa plants cannot handle frost or winter weather conditions. This means that you should live in a hardiness zone of either 10, 11, or 12 if you want to keep your monstera outside. If you happen to live in one of these zones, you may get lucky and grow your monstera over 10 feet tall. If grown outdoors with proper support and care, many Monstera deliciosa plants reach 20-30 feet tall and up to 65 feet tall at a maximum! However, you will need to make sure that your monstera is in a slightly sheltered location from wind and bright, hot sunlight. Its leaves are extremely delicate overall, so make sure your monstera will be happy wherever you plant it!
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