Monstera Creeper Monstera deliciosa is a species of flowering plant native to tropical forests of southern Mexico, south to Panama. The specific epithet deliciosa is derived from the Latin word for “delicious”, referring to the edible fruit of the plant. The plant is known by a variety of common names, including Swiss cheese plant, Mexican breadfruit, hurricane plant, fruit salad tree, and monkey mask.
Monstera deliciosa is a large evergreen vine that can grow up to 20 m (66 ft) in length. The leaves are large and deeply lobed, with holes or fenestrations that give the leaf a distinctive Swiss cheese appearance. The plant produces an edible fruit that is similar in appearance to a greenish-white pineapple.
Monstera deliciosa is a popular houseplant in temperate regions, where it is grown for its ornamental leaves. The plant is also used in traditional medicine, and the fruit is eaten as a delicacy in some parts of the world.
Benefits:
The plant is known to have a number of benefits, including:
– Acting as an air purifier
– Helping to improve sleep quality
– Boosting mood and energy levels
– Enhancing concentration and focus
– Reducing stress and anxiety levels
How to care:
Monstera Creeper is a relatively easy plant to care for, and can be grown in a variety of different environments.
The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate low light conditions. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy, and the plant should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Monstera Creeper can be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season, and monthly during the winter.
The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings, and will also produce offsets, or “baby” plants, that can be removed and potted up on their own.
Water requirement:
The plant prefers to have its soil kept moist, but not soggy. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizer requirements:
Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, and monthly during the winter.
Type of Soil:
The plant prefers a rich, well-draining soil.
Pruning:
Prune the plant as needed to remove dead or damaged leaves, and to encourage new growth.
Propagation:
The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings, or by removing and potting up offsets.
Pest and Disease
The plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot.
Landscape uses:
Monstera Creeper can be used as a groundcover, or as a climbing vine on a trellis or other support.