Mini Monstera, scientifically known as Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, has gained popularity among plant lovers for its striking appearance and manageable size. Often mistaken for its larger cousin - the Monstera deliciosa, the Mini Monstera features unique, split leaves that add a tropical touch to any setting.
It is relatively straightforward for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts to care for a Mini Monstera. Understanding its light, water, and humidity needs is essential for promoting plant growth and vibrant foliage. In this guide, we will explore the key care requirements for your Mini Monstera, ensuring it flourishes in your home while enhancing your indoor space with its lush greenery.
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What Is Mini Monstera Plant?
The Mini Monstera - Monstera adansonii, is a popular houseplant characterized by its small, heart-shaped leaves that feature distinct perforations or splits. Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, this vining plant thrives in bright indirect light and prefers high humidity. Unlike its larger relative, the Monstera deliciosa, the Mini Monstera typically grows more compact, so it is an ideal choice for indoor spaces. It is appreciated not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its air-purifying qualities.
What’s the Difference between a Monstera and a Mini Monstera?
“Monstera” and “Mini Monstera” refer to different plants, though, they are often confused due to their similar appearance. Here is a breakdown of their main differences:
Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
Monstera Plant
- Size: Typically grows large, with leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in length.
- Leaves: Characterized by large, split leaves with distinctive holes (fenestrations).
- Growth Habit: Can climb and requires support as it grows; it can reach heights of 10 feet or more indoors.
- Common Name: Often referred to as the Swiss Cheese Plant due to its unique leaf shape.
- Care: Prefers bright, indirect light and needs consistent watering.
Mini Monstera (Rhaphidophora tetrasperma)
Mini Monstera Plant
- Size: Generally smaller, reaching about 2-3 feet in height.
- Leaves: Features smaller leaves with splits but are not as pronounced as those of the Monstera deliciosa.
- Growth Habit: It is also a climbing plant but remains more compact than the Monstera.
- Common Name: Sometimes called the Philodendron Ginny or Mini Monstera, although it is not a true Monstera.
- Care: Similar care requirements, thriving in bright, indirect light and needing regular watering.
How to Care for Mini Monstera?
It’s easy to care for a Mini Monstera. From optimal lighting and watering techniques to humidity levels and soil preferences, you can cultivate a healthy and vibrant Mini Monstera by referring to the following tips.
Mini Monstera Light
Mini Monstera needs sunlight to thrive, but it prefers bright, indirect light rather than direct sunlight. Ideally, you can place it near a window with filtered light to promote plant growth and encourage the development of its distinctive perforated leaves. If natural light is limited, consider using LED grow lights to supplement as much as you want.
Mini Monstera Light
Mini Monstera Watering Frequency
They like their soil to be kept moist but not soggy. Typically, this means that you can water your mini Monstera once or twice a week. While the specific frequency of watering varies from humidity, temperature, and pot size, some signs can help you determine whether you need to water your mini Monstera - Yellowing leaves or a mushy stem can indicate too much water, while brown, crispy edges may suggest underwatering.
Mini Monstera Watering Frequency
As mini Monstera enjoys humidity, misting, or placing them near a humidifier can be beneficial to plant growth. Besides, bottom watering can be a great method for your mini Monstera. Place the pot in a shallow tray of water and let it soak for about 15-30 minutes. The soil will draw moisture up through the drainage holes. If you need to go on a business travel or trip for a while, you can apply a self-watering system to keep it moist while you’re away.
Mini Monstera Soil
The best soil for mini Monstera is a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture. Here are some ideal components to consider:
Mini Monstera Soil
- Standard Potting Mix: Start with high-quality potting soil as your base. This provides essential nutrients.
- Perlite: Adding perlite improves aeration and drainage, helping to prevent root rot.
- Orchid Bark: Incorporating orchid bark enhances drainage and mimics the plant's natural growing conditions in the wild.
- Coconut Coir: This can be added for moisture retention while still allowing airflow to the roots.
Besides, a good ratio for a mini Monstera soil mix might be 50% standard potting soil, 25% perlite, and 25% orchid bark.
Mini Monstera Temperature
Mini Monsteras thrive best in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). A temperature below 60°F (15°C) can be considered too cold and if you prolong exposure to this temperature, your plant will suffer from stress, which may lead to slowed growth and yellowing leaves. Therefore, you can use a plant heater to keep it warm continuously in winter.
Moreover, if its temperature drops below 50°F (10°C), it can even result in significant potential death of the plant. Thus, if you want to put your mini Monstera outside, avoid placing them outside if temperatures are expected to drop below 60°F (15°C).
FAQs About Mini Monstera Plant
By the end of the post, we’ll answer several questions concerning mini Monstera plants.
How Big Does a Mini Monstera Get?
The mini Monstera typically grows to about 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) in height indoors. In ideal conditions, it can reach up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) or more. Its growth can be influenced by factors such as light, humidity, and pot size.
These plants are known for their unique, split leaves that resemble those of the larger Monstera Deliciosa, but they remain much smaller and more manageable for indoor spaces. Regular pruning can help maintain a desired size and encourage bushier growth.
Do Mini Monsteras Climb or Hang?
Mini Monsteras, are vining plants that naturally climb in their native tropical habitats. They can cling to supports like trellises or moss poles, using their aerial roots to secure themselves as they grow upward. However, they can also hang beautifully if allowed to trail from a shelf or a hanging planter. Whether you choose to let them climb or hang depends on your space and aesthetic preference.
How to Train a Mini Monstera to Climb?
You can also set up vertical gardening by training a Mini Monstera to climb.
To train a mini Monstera to climb, follow these steps:
- Select a sturdy support like a moss pole, trellis, or stake that is tall enough for the plant to grow upward.
- Place the mini Monstera near the support so that the plant can easily reach it.
- Gently tie or use plant clips to attach the stems of the Monstera to the support. Be careful not to damage the stems.
- As the plant grows, continue to guide the stems upwards and secure them to the support. You can also mist the plant to promote aerial root growth, which will help it cling better.
- Ensure the plant receives adequate light, water, and humidity to encourage healthy growth and climbing behavior.
Conclusion
In summary, to ensure your Mini Monstera thrives, focus on providing bright, indirect light, maintaining consistent humidity, and watering appropriately. Regular misting, pruning, and repotting will also help promote healthy growth and prevent overcrowding. Additionally, keeping an eye out for pests and diseases will help you catch any issues early, ensuring your plant remains vibrant and healthy.
