Monstera adansonii
Mexican breadfruit plant
A tender perennial that will either climb (given support) or trail to 2m. The stems produce adventitious roots and heart-shaped leaves with oval holes between the main veins
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Araceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Climbing, Trailing
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
- Genus
Monstera are evergreen climbing shrubs with aerial roots, and usually ovate leaves which are often pinnately cut or lobed; arum-like flowerheads with white spathes arise from the leaf axils on mature plants
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Tropical America
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright, indirect light with moderate to high humidity. In the growing season, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter. Provide a moss pole or other support if you wish the plant to climb. See houseplant cultivation and Monstera for further information
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed at 18-24°C as soon as ripe, take tip or leaf cuttings with bottom heat in summer, layer in autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- hanging basket
- Houseplants
- Sub-tropical
- Low Maintenance
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
See pruning group 11
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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