The Monstera epipremnoides ‘Esqueleto’ is a highly sought-after houseplant, prized for its distinct beauty and rarity. Its unique foliage captivates plant enthusiasts, making it a valued addition to indoor collections. The plant’s allure comes from its uncommon availability and striking visual characteristics. Acquiring an ‘Esqueleto’ often marks a significant milestone for plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Esqueleto’s Unique Features
The ‘Esqueleto’ is distinguished by its deep fenestrations, the prominent holes and splits that develop in its mature leaves. These perforations create a “skeleton-like” or “lace-like” appearance, giving the plant its name. Its fenestrations are larger and more intricate than those on other Monstera varieties, like Monstera adansonii. Young leaves emerge without splits, developing them as the plant ages and receives adequate light.
This plant exhibits a vining growth habit, naturally climbing in its native Costa Rican cloud forests. Its leaves are large, glossy green, and have a leathery texture. Mature indoor leaves can reach up to 2 feet (0.6 meters) long. As an epiphytic climber, the ‘Esqueleto’ develops aerial roots that help it cling to supports and absorb moisture from the air.
Essential Care Requirements
Proper care is essential for the health and vigorous growth of Monstera epipremnoides ‘Esqueleto’.
A. Light
The ‘Esqueleto’ thrives in bright, indirect light, mimicking the dappled sunlight of its natural habitat. Place the plant near an east or west-facing window, or a few feet from a south-facing window, for ideal illumination. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. Insufficient light hinders fenestration development and causes leggy growth.
B. Watering
Consistent watering is necessary for the health of Monstera epipremnoides ‘Esqueleto’. The plant prefers evenly moist soil, but never waterlogged, as excessive moisture leads to root rot. Water when the top 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of soil feel dry. Thoroughly saturate the soil until water drains from the pot’s bottom, ensuring good drainage. Decrease watering frequency during winter or periods of reduced growth.
C. Humidity and Temperature
Originating from humid cloud forests, the ‘Esqueleto’ flourishes in high humidity, between 60% and 80%. Low household humidity can cause leaf edges to brown or become crispy. To increase humidity, use a plant humidifier, place the pot on a pebble tray, or group it with other plants. The plant prefers warm temperatures, with a range of 65-85°F (18-29°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations, so place it away from air vents and open windows.
D. Soil and Nutrients
A well-draining, airy, and rich potting mix is suitable for Monstera epipremnoides ‘Esqueleto’. An aroid-specific mix, often composed of pine bark, perlite, coco coir, and potting soil, promotes healthy root development and prevents water retention. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 7.
The ‘Esqueleto’ benefits from regular fertilization during its active growing season, from spring through fall. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer monthly or every 2-4 weeks, following dilution directions, for vigorous growth. Reduce or stop fertilization during cooler, dormant months.
E. Support and Staking
Given its natural vining growth, providing vertical support benefits the ‘Esqueleto’. A moss pole, bamboo stake, or trellis allows aerial roots to grip and climb, promoting larger leaves and more pronounced fenestrations. Allowing the plant to climb encourages a more mature growth habit than trailing.
Propagation Methods
Propagating Monstera epipremnoides ‘Esqueleto’ is done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least one leaf and one or more nodes; the node is where new roots emerge. Make a clean cut just below a node using sharp, sterilized pruning shears. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in water or the rooting medium to prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or moist sphagnum moss. For water rooting, submerge the node(s) in fresh water, changing it weekly. For sphagnum moss, ensure it’s damp but not soaking wet, and gently press the cutting into it. Place the cutting in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Roots form within a few weeks, and once they are 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long, transplant the cutting into a well-draining potting mix.
Addressing Common Challenges
Several common issues can affect the health and appearance of Monstera epipremnoides ‘Esqueleto’. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, or too much direct light. Consistently soggy soil may lead to root rot, causing leaves to yellow and droop. Dry, crispy yellow leaves signal underwatering.
Browning leaf tips or edges often indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering. Increasing ambient humidity through humidifiers or pebble trays can help. A lack of fenestrations on new leaves suggests insufficient light or plant immaturity.
Pest issues can arise. Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and fungus gnats may affect the ‘Esqueleto’. Regular inspection of leaves, especially the undersides, aids early detection. For minor infestations, wipe leaves with a damp cloth or apply insecticidal soap. For severe cases, targeted treatments like neem oil or specific insecticides may be necessary. Maintaining good cultural practices, such as proper watering and humidity, helps deter pests.