Shingle plants, such as Rhaphidophora cryptantha and Monstera acuminata, are tropical vines known for their distinct growth habit. These plants earn their name by “shingling,” meaning their leaves lie flat and cling tightly against a vertical surface, mimicking roof shingles. Native to the humid rainforests of Southeast Asia and Central America, this captivating display makes them popular houseplants.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Shingle plants thrive in bright, indirect light conditions, mimicking the dappled sunlight they receive beneath a dense forest canopy. Placing them near an east-facing window or a south-facing window with a sheer curtain provides the best light. Too much direct sun can scorch their delicate leaves, while insufficient light causes stunted growth or smaller leaves. These plants can also flourish under artificial grow lights.
Watering
These plants prefer consistently moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water when the top 2-3 inches of the potting mix feel dry to the touch. Water thoroughly until excess water drains, and empty the saucer. During winter months, watering frequency should be reduced as growth slows.
Soil Mix
A well-draining, airy potting mix is important for shingle plants to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. An aroid mix formulated with ingredients like orchid bark, perlite, peat moss, horticultural charcoal, and coco coir provides the necessary aeration and drainage. This mimics their natural forest floor habitat. Using a pot with drainage holes is also important for proper water flow.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity levels, ideally above 60-70%, are important for shingle plants, supporting leaf health and aerial root attachment. Methods to increase humidity include using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping it with other plants. Stable warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) are preferred, as these plants are sensitive to cold drafts and extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
During their active growing season, typically spring and summer, shingle plants benefit from monthly feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Diluting the fertilizer to half strength can prevent over-fertilization to prevent harm. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the fall and winter months when growth slows.
Encouraging Shingling Growth
Shingle plants develop their shingling habit as an adaptation to climb, using aerial roots to adhere to tree trunks. Indoors, provide a suitable vertical support structure. Options include moss poles, wooden planks, or cork bark for aerial roots to grip.
Early support encourages larger, more established leaves. Gently attach stems and aerial roots to the support using soft string, plant tape, or clips. Maintain high humidity around the support, perhaps by misting, to encourage aerial root attachment.
Repotting Your Plant
Repot when the plant shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots circling the pot or stunted growth. The ideal time is during the active growing season, typically late spring to early summer. Choose a new pot that is only one to two inches larger in diameter than the current one to avoid over-potting and excess moisture retention.
When repotting, gently remove the plant from its current container, avoiding damage to delicate aerial roots. Carefully remove any nursery mesh net around the roots, as it can suffocate them. Place the plant in the new pot, ensure the root ball top is level with the soil, then backfill with fresh, well-draining potting mix. If adding or replacing a support structure, secure it before filling with soil.
Propagating New Plants
Propagating shingle plants is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. To take a cutting, select a healthy stem section that is at least 4-6 inches long and includes one or more nodes, which are the bumps on the stem where leaves and roots emerge. Bury at least one node in the rooting medium for successful root development.
Cuttings can be rooted in various mediums, including water, damp sphagnum moss, or perlite. When rooting in sphagnum moss, keep it consistently moist; a plastic bag can help maintain high humidity. Providing warmth and bright, indirect light will encourage successful rooting. Once rooted, transplant the new plantlet into a suitable potting mix.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves on a shingle plant indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Allow topsoil to dry out between waterings and ensure adequate drainage. Conversely, browning leaf tips or edges point to low humidity or underwatering. Increase ambient humidity through misting or humidifiers, and maintain consistent soil moisture to alleviate these symptoms.
A lack of shingling may result from insufficient support, inadequate light, or low humidity. Shingle plants can also be susceptible to common houseplant pests like mealybugs and spider mites, which can appear as white cottony clusters or cause stippling on leaves. Regularly inspect leaf undersides for early detection; apply general houseplant pest treatments if an infestation occurs.