Monstera Karstenianum ‘Peru’ – Plant

Monstera Peru leaves do not change their appearance as they mature. Each leaf unfurls at the tip of a petiole, spaced about 2 inches apart along the vine. They grow to about 2 to 4 inches long, with an oval, slightly pointed shape. The leaves have a thick, leathery texture, with deep puckers. They are a bright, glossy green, with darker green veins. Monstera Peru vines planted outdoors in tropical regions are capable of blooming. They grow much larger and so are more likely to reach the maturity necessary to bloom. The blooms are small and white in colour.

Plant height- The average indoor potted plant will reach a length (or height) of 6 to 8 feet and can reach upto 12 feet.

Plant Care

Sunlight

• Keep the plant in indirect bright light for better growth of the plant.

Soil

• The soil should be well drained and fertile rich in organic content.

Watering

• Poke your finger/plain small stick into the soil to check the moisture.
• Water when top soil (1-2 inches) feels dry to touch.
• Water thoroughly in the summer and reduce watering in winter and rainy season.

Application of Fertilizer

• During the main growing season feed the plant with organic fertilizer once a month.
• Loosen the topsoil without disturbing the roots of the plant so it can uptake the nutrients and moisture easily.

Re-potting

• When a plant outgrows in current pot, re-pot with fresh potting soil and some fertilizer.
• Repotting Monstera karstenianum should be done every 2 years or so, but if it becomes rootbound before that, repotting should be done.
• Do the re-potting late evening and keep the plant in shady area for 2 to 3 days and then move the plant in its suitable climatic condition.

Plant Protection

• Remove dead, infected or damaged plant parts and dispose them away from the planting area.
• Spray Neem, Eucalyptus or Citrus oil for any insect/pest attack, as a primary treatment.

Don’ts

• Easily grows in AC rooms but away from AC vents.
• Do not over-water the plant especially when pot does not have drainage holes.

Uses