A “Malaysian Monster” is an affectionate term for large, impressive Monstera deliciosa plants. This iconic houseplant is known for its dramatic foliage and ability to grow significantly indoors.
Unveiling the Malaysian Monster
The plant known as a “Malaysian Monster” is scientifically Monstera deliciosa. It originates from the tropical rainforests of Central America, spanning from southern Mexico down to Panama. In its native habitat, it grows as an evergreen perennial vine, using large trees for support to climb towards the canopy.
Its large, glossy, deep green leaves develop distinctive splits and holes, known as fenestrations, earning it the common name “Swiss cheese plant.” These fenestrations are an adaptation that helps the plant maximize light exposure in its native rainforest understory and may also aid in water uptake and wind resistance.
Monstera deliciosa also features robust aerial roots emerging from the stems. In nature, these roots anchor the plant to trees as it climbs and absorb moisture and nutrients. Indoors, they continue to seek support.
Cultivating Your Giant
Light
To grow a large Monstera deliciosa, provide abundant bright, indirect light. Place the plant near an east, west, or south-facing window with filtered sunlight. Direct, harsh sun can scorch leaves, causing brown or yellow patches. Insufficient light results in smaller leaves, slower growth, and a lack of fenestrations.
Watering
Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches (or about 50-75%) of the soil feel dry. Allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings helps prevent root rot from overly saturated soil. Ensure water drains thoroughly from the pot, and discard excess water from the saucer.
Soil and Nutrients
A well-draining, aerated soil mix is ideal for Monstera deliciosa. A suitable blend includes a peat-based potting mix amended with perlite, orchid bark, or coco coir to enhance drainage and aeration. This allows for good air circulation around the roots and prevents compaction. During the active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer to support robust growth. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter when growth slows.
Humidity and Temperature
Monstera deliciosa thrives in warm and humid conditions. An ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 85°F (18°C and 30°C). While it tolerates average household humidity, higher levels (ideally 60-80%) encourage more vigorous growth and larger, healthier leaves. Increase humidity using a humidifier, placing the pot on a pebble tray, or grouping plants. Misting offers a temporary boost.
Support for Growth
Providing a sturdy support structure is important for a large Monstera deliciosa. A moss pole or sturdy trellis allows the plant’s aerial roots to attach, providing stability and encouraging larger, more mature, and fenestrated foliage. Guide aerial roots towards the support and secure stems with soft ties. Keeping the moss pole moist encourages adherence and nutrient absorption.
Propagation and Pruning
Propagation and pruning help manage your Monstera deliciosa’s size or create new plants. Propagation is most successful using stem cuttings, ideally taken during the spring or summer growing season. A cutting should include at least one node, the slightly swollen bump on the stem where a leaf or aerial root emerges. Cuttings can be rooted in water (changing water every few days to prevent stagnation) or directly in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Roots typically develop within a few weeks to a couple of months, after which the new plant can be potted.
Pruning maintains the plant’s shape and size. Remove yellowed or damaged leaves, or trim leggy stems for bushier growth. Always use clean, sharp shears, cutting just below a node to promote new growth. Pruning also provides cuttings for propagation.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Even with consistent care, Monstera deliciosa can encounter issues. Recognizing common problems and their solutions helps maintain a healthy plant.
Some common pests affecting Monstera include spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and aphids. Regularly inspecting leaves, especially the undersides, helps detect infestations early. Treatment often involves wiping leaves with a damp cloth, applying insecticidal soap, or using neem oil. Isolating an affected plant prevents pests from spreading.
Leaf discoloration is a common concern. Yellowing leaves often indicate improper watering (too much or too little) or insufficient light. A nutrient deficiency or natural aging of older leaves can also cause yellowing. Brown tips or edges point to low humidity, inconsistent watering, or over-fertilization. Ensuring consistent moisture and adequate humidity helps prevent these issues.
A lack of fenestrations on new leaves indicates insufficient bright, indirect light or an immature plant. Providing more light as the plant matures encourages the development of these characteristic splits. If the plant exhibits leggy growth (long stems and sparse foliage), this suggests inadequate light exposure. Moving the plant to a brighter location or providing supplemental grow lights helps address leggy growth and promotes a more compact, lush appearance.