The Monstera deliciosa, commonly known as “Costela de Adão,” is a favored indoor plant. Its distinctive large, glossy leaves, with deep cuts and natural perforations, create a striking appearance.
What is Costela de Adão
Monstera deliciosa originates from the tropical rainforests of Southern Mexico and Central America, extending south to Panama. This vining plant has large, heart-shaped leaves that develop unique splits and oblong holes (fenestrations) as they mature; younger leaves lack these openings.
Thick, cord-like aerial roots emerge from its stems, anchoring the plant to trees for climbing and absorbing moisture and nutrients. The Portuguese name “Costela de Adão” translates to “Adam’s Rib,” referencing the rib-like fenestrations of its mature leaves. In suitable indoor conditions, Monstera deliciosa can grow significantly, typically reaching heights of 6 to 8 feet.
Caring for Your Costela de Adão
Light
Monstera deliciosa thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking its natural environment under the forest canopy. Place the plant a few feet from a south, west, or east-facing window, or use filtered light through sheer curtains. Direct, intense sunlight, especially during the afternoon, can scorch its leaves, leading to browning or crispy spots.
Insufficient light can hinder the plant’s growth, resulting in smaller leaves and a lack of fenestrations. If natural light is limited, a full-spectrum LED grow light can supplement its needs, promoting healthier growth and leaf development. Observe the plant’s response to light, adjusting its position as needed to maintain vibrant foliage.
Water
Allow the top few inches of soil to dry between waterings. Check by inserting a finger; if the top 2-3 inches feel dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom. Overwatering is a common issue, leading to yellowing leaves and potentially root rot if the soil remains consistently wet.
Conversely, underwatering can cause leaves to droop, curl, or become crispy at the edges. Water based on soil moisture, not a strict schedule, as environmental factors influence needs. Ensuring the pot has adequate drainage holes is also important to prevent waterlogging.
Soil and Potting
Monstera deliciosa prefers a well-draining, aerated potting mix that is rich in organic matter. A suitable blend often includes components such as peat moss, perlite, and pine bark, which provide both drainage and some moisture retention. This type of soil mixture helps prevent water from sitting excessively around the roots, reducing the risk of root rot.
The potting container should always have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. An aerated, “chunky” soil mix facilitates healthy root development and efficient water absorption.
Temperature and Humidity
Monstera deliciosa thrives in warm and humid conditions, reflecting its tropical origins. Ideal temperatures range between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C); growth slows outside this range. Maintain temperatures above 60°F (15°C) to prevent cold damage.
High humidity levels, ideally around 60% to 80%, contribute to the plant’s vigor and lush foliage. In drier indoor environments, increase humidity by misting leaves, using a pebble tray, or a humidifier. Good airflow is also important to prevent fungal issues, even in humid conditions.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season, typically spring and summer, Monstera deliciosa benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer applied once a month can support its vigorous growth. It is important to follow the product’s instructions to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to nutrient burn and harm the plant.
During the dormant season in winter, the plant’s growth slows, and fertilization should be reduced or paused. This allows the plant to rest and prevents the buildup of excess salts in the soil.
Propagation and Repotting
Propagating Monstera deliciosa is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. A healthy stem cutting needs at least one node (where roots and new growth emerge), ideally with an aerial root. Cuttings can be rooted in water by submerging the node, with the water changed every few days to maintain cleanliness. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks.
Alternatively, cuttings can be planted directly into a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the node is buried. For repotting an existing plant, signs such as roots growing out of drainage holes or slowed growth indicate it is root-bound. Repotting should be done into a slightly larger pot, using fresh, suitable potting mix. Providing a moss pole or other support during repotting can encourage the plant’s natural climbing habit and promote larger leaf development.
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing leaves on a Monstera deliciosa often indicate improper soil moisture, with overwatering being a frequent cause. If the soil is consistently soggy, root rot can occur, but underwatering can also lead to yellowing and crispy leaves. Adjusting watering practices to allow the topsoil to dry out before rewatering can resolve this.
Browning leaf tips or edges typically point to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity through misting or pebble trays can help. A lack of fenestrations or small leaves often suggests insufficient light, as the plant requires adequate light to develop its signature splits. Leggy growth also indicates a need for more light.
Common pests that affect Monstera deliciosa include spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale insects. These can cause yellowing, spotting, or distorted leaves. Organic pest control methods, such as wiping leaves with diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap, can help manage infestations. Overwatering can also lead to fungal issues, which are best prevented by ensuring good drainage and allowing soil to dry adequately.
Important Considerations
Monstera deliciosa, including all its parts, contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic if ingested by humans or pets. These needle-like crystals can cause immediate irritation, burning, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat. Symptoms may also include excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
To ensure safety, it is advisable to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. When handling the plant, especially during pruning or propagation, wearing gloves can prevent skin irritation from the sap. In the event of ingestion, seeking immediate medical or veterinary attention is recommended.