Adam's Rib or Monstera Deliciosa: Care and varieties
If you are already the proud owner of a Monstera or want to become one, it is worth knowing its basic care and what other varieties you can acquire to add to your collection.
If you're into the world of houseplants, there's a good chance you want (or have) a Monstera. And if you don't have it or want it yet, you'll want it. It is impossible to resist its exuberant beauty, you will not be able to help but feel attracted by that refreshing retro-tropical touch offered by the particular silhouette of its leaves.
If you are already the proud owner of a Monstera or want to become one, it is good to know its basic care and what other strains you can acquire to increase your collection.
How to
water a Monstera With the- Monstera a
little is better than too much, don't overdo it with the frequency of watering. Check the substrate before watering, it should be completely dry before watering again, as excess water will turn the leaves yellow and can attract pests and diseases. When in doubt, wait a couple of days.
- Lighting for Monsteras
As they are jungle species, they live under the shade of large trees, so place them in a place where they do not receive direct sunlight but that is quite bright. They hold up very well to poor lighting, but it is better that it receives some light a day as it will grow more and better.
- Temperature and humidity
Monsteras are very hardy, to the point where they can tolerate winter temperatures outside. In any case, the ideal is to have it indoors where the temperature fluctuates between 20 and 25°C, which is perfect for them. They love humidity, so you can spray them with water or have them with other plants to regulate their environmental levels.
Types
of Monstera- Monstera Deliciosa
The most popular of all Monsteras, with giant leaves that fill with holes as they ripen. Many new leaves, especially on young plants, are born without holes, but the next ones will come with the typical silhouette.
- Borsigniana
is a variation of the Monstera Deliciosa, very similar but grows faster and the holes look a little neater. The easiest way to tell them apart is to look at the stem of the leaf. If you see a small curly edge where the leaf begins and joins the stem, it is a Borsigniana.
Monstera- Variegata
It is the same species as the Monsteras Deliciosas, but with a variation in color. The leaves are green with white, and it may even have completely white leaves. They are rare and hard to get, so if you find it, don't hesitate to buy it.
Monstera- Adansonii
The leaves of this variety are slightly smaller than those of the Monstera Deliciosa, but the holes are larger, to the point of taking up 50% of the leaf. They look fantastic, because although the edges are straight, the natural holes give it a very exotic look.
- Monstera Siltepecana
This variety of monstera is characterized by large, teardrop-shaped leaves, with small holes that cluster around the central vein of the leaf. They are a lighter green color than their more popular relatives.