Native to the cloud forest of Costa Rica, Monstera esqueleto, also known as Monstera epipremnoides, renowned for its stunning leaves that grow to incredible size with intricate fenestrations. The leaves start out small and lance shaped but grow larger and begin to fenestrate as they climb. Fenestrations refers to the holes in the leaves that will develop as the plant grows into maturity. This is an adaption developed as when in their natural rainforest habitat, fenestrations allow the plant to maximise light exposure to lower leaves. Fenestrations also facilitate water reaching the plants roots. Some theories also suggest that the holes can help the plants withstand strong winds by allowing these essential elements wind to pass through the leaves with no tearing. This increased airflow is believed to help keep the plants cool in extremely humid rainforests. 

☀️This plant requires bright indirect light, avoid any harsh light or positioning this plant too close to a window as scorching or leaf burn can occur.

💧Monsteras like their soil to be kept evenly moist and it’s best not to let them completely dry out in between waterings as the leaves can start to droop. 

〰️These plants do require higher levels of humidity, leaf edges may dry and begin to brown if the ambient humidity is too low. You will generally start to see signs of this at the tips of the leaves. This isn't detrimental to the plant's health, but can look unsightly. You can increase humidity in your home by misting, grouping plants close together or sitting pot plants on a saucer filled with pebbles and water.

🌡️Like most popular houseplants, Monsteras prefer temperatures in the 18°C-30°C which is similar to their tropical native habitat. 

🪜Monsteras naturally want to climb so giving this plant some sort of climbing support will ensure it grows exceptionally well. A moss pole or simple stake will work a treat. Some people do prefer to grow these plant in a hanging basket and let the stems hang down. You will get mature leaves faster when letting the plant climb.

🍴It’s best to feed regularly during the warmer months and reduce frequency in winter. Alternatively, use a controlled release fertiliser at the beginning of spring and autumn.

✂️Remove dying or browning leaves and stems as required. Otherwise, there is no need to prune. These plants can be very easily grown by dividing mature clumps or from cuttings. Just snip below a node, place in water and wait a few weeks and it’s that easy. Fast to root, easy to transplant to soil. It also very easy to separate clumps by untangle the root ball and simply potting each clump separately. This plant is made for propagating given its growth rate!

🪴Monsteras prefer a well-draining potting mix. Using a mix of orchid bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite works well. They are also very commonly grown hydroponically with great success.

(You will receive a bare rooted plant, similar to the ones seen in the images. Each living plant is unique and may vary slightly in size, colour or shape.)