Monstera dubia
Monstera dubia
Shingle Plant
★
Description
Monstera dubia is a striking shingling aroid whose juvenile leaves press flat against a board or trunk, showing silvery, mosaic veining. Given a vertical support and higher light, it transforms with maturity—leaves lift off the surface and develop elegant fenestrations. Easygoing with the right humidity and a chunky mix, it rewards you with fast, tidy growth.
Common Names
Shingle PlantMonstera Shingle VineDubia Monstera
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical rainforests of Central America to northern South America (roughly Costa Rica to Peru).
usdaZones
10–12 (outdoors only in frost-free climates).
companionPlants
Rhaphidophora cryptantha, Monstera karstenianum (Monstera Peru), Scindapsus pictus, Philodendron hederaceum ‘Micans’, Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Cebu Blue’
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental—valued for shingling displays on boards, moss poles, or living walls in interior design and plant collections.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; some morning sun is fine. Lower light slows growth and reduces shingling.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 in (2–5 cm) of mix dries. Keep evenly moist but never soggy; reduce in winter.
SoilChunky, fast-draining aroid mix (bark, perlite/pumice, coco coir, charcoal). pH slightly acidic to neutral.
FertilizerBalanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; none or very light in winter.
HumidityPrefers 60–80%. Tolerates ~50% with slower growth; boost with pebble tray or humidifier.
TemperatureIdeal 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid cold drafts; do not expose below ~55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen hemiepiphytic climber; juvenile leaves shingle tightly, adult leaves lift and fenestrate on strong vertical support.
Mature SizeVine 4–8 ft (1.2–2.4 m) indoors on a board/pole; longer in habitat. Juvenile leaves 3–6 in; mature leaves 8–18 in.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, bright, humid conditions.
BloomingTypical aroid spadix with spathe; rarely flowers indoors and not grown for blooms.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows noticeably in cooler, darker months.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings with at least one node, Air layering, Water or moss propagation, Rooted cuttings in perlite or LECA
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTrim runners to manage length and encourage denser shingling. Remove yellowed leaves; sanitize tools.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years or when roots circle. Upgrade to a slightly larger pot and refresh chunky mix; provide/upgrade vertical support.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Overwatering can cause root rot; ensure airflow to prevent leaf spot.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalates). Can cause oral irritation; keep away from pets and children.
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