This
is a group of often very large-growing evergreen tropical climbers,
usually with long aerial roots and often epiphytic or becoming so as
they clamber up forest trees. The foliage has both juvenile and
adult forms: juvenile leaves are usually much smaller and entire,
often growing flat to the trunk of the host plant; adult leaves are
much larger and often perforated. The flowers consist of a spathe to
18 in (45 cm) long that sometimes sheds and is usually white or
greenish cream. The fruits, which often mature to white, are in some
species edible. They are native to tropical America and the West
Indies.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Flowering colors: Cream, Green, White
Cultivation: Species of Monstera are usually grown as indoor plants
in all but tropical countries, where they can grow to 70 ft (21 m)
or more. They can be controlled by pruning. They prefer part-shade
and humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil.
Propagate from ripe seed or cuttings or by layering. |