Monstera karstenianum

Peru Monstera

◆

Taxonomy

Family Araceae · Genus Monstera

Common Names

Peru MonsteraMonstera Peru

Context

nativeRegion

Tropical rainforests of northern South America (Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela).

usdaZones

10–12 (grown indoors in cooler regions).

companionPlants

Philodendron hederaceum, Epipremnum aureum, Syngonium podophyllum

culturalUses

Primarily ornamental; popular with houseplant enthusiasts for unique foliage.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; can tolerate lower light but grows best with filtered sunlight.

WateringLet the top inch of soil dry between waterings; prefers even moisture but not soggy soil.

SoilWell-draining, airy mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark.

FertilizerFeed monthly during growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.

HumidityPrefers high humidity (60%+); benefits from occasional misting or a humidifier.

TemperatureThrives in 18–27°C (65–80°F); avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C (55°F).

HabitVining, climbing epiphyte with thick, textured leaves.

Mature SizeTypically 30–60 cm (1–2 ft) long vines indoors; leaves up to 15–30 cm (6–12 in) long.

Growth RateModerate growth; increases with optimal light, warmth, and humidity.

BloomingRare in cultivation; produces small, insignificant flowers in mature, wild plants.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth may slow in winter.

MethodsStem cuttings, Water propagation, Soil propagation

DifficultyEasy

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningTrim to shape and encourage branching; remove dead or yellow leaves.

RepottingRepot every 1–2 years or when rootbound.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityToxic to pets and humans if ingested (contains insoluble calcium oxalates).

No public plants yet.