Plant
Monstera.
Monstera deliciosa
A climbing aroid from Central American forests, grown for leaves that split and perforate as the plant matures. Splits usually start once leaves pass about 30 cm (12 in) and the light is strong.
How to help it thrive.
Light & placement
Aim for 10,000–20,000 lux, within about 1 m of an east or west window, with no more than a few hours of morning sun. Below about 2,500 lux, new leaves come in small and unsplit; a moss or coir pole encourages larger ones.
Water & drainage
Water when the top 3–5 cm (1–2 in) of a chunky bark-and-perlite mix is dry, then let 10–20% drain away and empty the cachepot. Keep it above 12 °C (54 °F); cold, wet roots rot quickly.
One thing to remember
Unsplit new leaves on a young or dimly lit plant are normal; more light and a pole, not more fertilizer, bring on the splits.
Further reading: Horticultural source
