The plant commonly known as the “split-leaf philodendron” is a popular indoor choice, admired for its distinctive, large, and often perforated leaves. Its tropical aesthetic and relatively straightforward care make it a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts.
Unraveling the Identity: Monstera deliciosa vs. True Philodendrons
The plant widely recognized as “split-leaf philodendron” is, in fact, Monstera deliciosa. Both belong to the Araceae family, but they are distinct genera. A primary difference lies in their leaf development: Monstera deliciosa develops natural splits and holes, called fenestrations, in its mature leaves, giving it a “Swiss cheese” appearance. True philodendrons typically have entire, heart-shaped, or lobed leaves that do not naturally form holes or deep splits.
The Climbing Habit of Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a vining epiphyte that naturally climbs on other plants for support in its native Central and South American rainforests. It uses specialized aerial roots to attach to tree trunks, ascending towards the canopy for brighter light. These cord-like roots provide physical anchorage and absorb moisture and nutrients from the humid air and organic matter on the host tree.
Benefits of Allowing Your Plant to Climb
Allowing Monstera deliciosa to climb provides several advantages for its development. Climbing encourages the plant to produce larger, more mature leaves with increased fenestrations. This vertical growth mimics its natural environment, contributing to the plant’s vigor and promoting healthier growth. Supporting your plant helps it achieve its full potential, resulting in a more impressive specimen.
Providing Effective Support for Your Monstera deliciosa
Types of Support
To support a climbing Monstera deliciosa indoors, popular options include moss poles and coco coir poles. These poles mimic natural tree trunks, providing a surface for aerial roots to grip. Trellises, made from materials like metal or wood, also offer sturdy support.
Installation and Training
When installing a moss pole, firmly place it deep into the pot’s soil, ideally during repotting, for stability. For existing plants, carefully insert the pole near the base, avoiding root damage. Gently guide the Monstera’s stems and aerial roots towards the support, securing them initially with soft plant ties or velcro tape. Over time, aerial roots should naturally attach to the moist pole surface, providing further stability. For trellises, thread aerial roots through holes and use ties to train the plant.
Optimizing Care for a Climbing Monstera deliciosa
Optimizing care for a climbing Monstera deliciosa enhances its vertical growth. Maintaining high humidity is beneficial, especially around aerial roots, as they absorb moisture from the air. Aim for humidity levels between 40-60%, achievable through humidifiers or by grouping plants. Misting aerial roots and the support pole encourages attachment and provides hydration.
When using a moss pole, watering it directly keeps the moss consistently moist, allowing aerial roots to draw water and nutrients. Self-watering moss poles with wicking systems can simplify this. Adequate bright, indirect light is important, encouraging robust growth and larger, fenestrated leaves. Insufficient light may result in slower growth and smaller leaves without splits. Fertilization during the growing season supports the increased energy demands of a larger, climbing plant.