Monstera subpinnata
Monstera subpinnata
Feather Monstera
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Description
Monstera subpinnata is a striking climbing aroid with elegant, feather-like leaves that give a palm frond look. It thrives with bright, indirect light, steady moisture, and high humidity, rewarding good care with fast, dramatic growth on a moss pole or trellis.
Common Names
Feather MonsteraPalm Leaf MonsteraLacy Monstera
Context
nativeRegion
Andean cloud forests of Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
usdaZones
10–12 (outdoors only in frost-free, humid climates)
companionPlants
Philodendron hederaceum, Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, Anthurium species, Epipremnum aureum, Calathea (Goeppertia) species, Asplenium nidus
culturalUses
Ornamental foliage plant prized by collectors; used for tropical interior design and green walls; no known culinary or medicinal uses.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; a few hours of gentle morning sun is fine. Avoid harsh midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry. Keep evenly moist but never soggy; reduce slightly in winter.
SoilChunky, well-draining aroid mix (coco/peat + orchid bark + perlite + a bit of compost). Slightly acidic pH ~5.5–6.5.
FertilizerFeed monthly at 1/4–1/2 strength in spring–summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer or use a slow-release aroid formula.
HumidityPrefers high humidity, 60–80%. Will tolerate ~50% with slower growth; boost with pebble trays or a humidifier.
TemperatureWarm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid cold drafts and temps below 55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen hemiepiphytic climber with slender stems and deeply pinnatifid, feather-like leaves.
Mature SizeIndoors: vines 6–10 ft+ with support; leaves 8–20 in long. Larger in tropical outdoor conditions.
Growth RateModerate to fast with warmth, bright light, and high humidity.
BloomingRare indoors; produces a spadix with spathe typical of aroids; primarily grown for foliage.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler, darker months.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings (with at least one node and aerial root), Air layering, Division of multiple growth points
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningTrim leggy vines just above a node to encourage branching; remove yellow or damaged leaves; train onto a moss pole or trellis.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years when rootbound; step up 1–2 inches in pot size and refresh the airy mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, thrips, mealybugs, and scale. Overwatering can cause root rot; occasional fungal/bacterial leaf spots—improve airflow and sanitation.
ToxicityToxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals; may irritate skin. Keep away from pets and children.
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