Monstera Karstenianum – otherwise known as Monstera Peru – is a stunner! It’s part of the Araceae family just like it’s big cousin Monstera Deliciosa, and is just as easy to grow with the right help. It is native to South America, so this plant likes to be warm and humid.
**The Monstera Peru is toxic to both people and pets**
The Monstera Peru can be a hard to find or “rare” plant; but thanks to some big time growers, you can/ will see this plant in your local stores from time to time.
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Characteristics
M. Peru is a climbing plant. It will attach itself to surfaces using aerial roots that cling, allowing the plant to climb. Climbing plants are amazing because it’s thought that climbing plants climb to reach more light, and the aerial roots will also take in water and nutrients. What a cool feature! You can give them a moss pole or a wood board to climb, or let them trail over the side of the pot. They are beautiful either way!
The foliage is dark green and wavy with deep ridges. It does not get split leaves like its other Monstera cousins, but it is just as cool of a plant.
For tips on growing a Monstera Deliciosa check out this post!
Light
Avoid strong, direct light with this plant. It can get sunburned in high direct light, but thrives in north or east facing light. It’s an understory plant, so you don’t have to worry too much about light issues unless you have it in too much sun or complete darkness.
Soil
Monsteras love to be planted in a light, well-draining soil. I use a mix of potting soil, pearlite and orchid bark. This mixture helps keep the roots moist but not soggy. Soggy soil is usually the cause of a lot of root issues.
Water
This Monstera tends to be on the more tolerant side when it comes to being watered. Water it when the soil is mostly dry, but if you see the foliage curling in then you know you’ve waited too long. Give your plant a big drink! Always water until you see water pouring from the drainage hole.
Fertilizer
There are two ways to fertilize this plant. You can fertilize with an organic fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the spring and summer and stop during the winter. Or you can dilute down your fertilizer making it very weak, and fertilize every time you water. Be sure to read the directions of your fertilizer of choice. Over fertilizing can cause issues such as leaf burn on your plants.
My favorite fertilizer to use is Fish Emulsion. Here’s a link
Humidity
Native to South America, this plant enjoys warm temperatures and a humid atmosphere. Temperatures between 60-80 F tend to be the sweet spot, and as far as humidity, 30-50% works perfectly. If you don’t have a humidifier and your home tends to be on the dryer side, then move your plant to a more humid room like the bathroom or a kitchen.
If you are in the market for a humidifier then check out this humidifier from Amazon! It has great reviews.
Propagation
Propagating the Peru is so easy. You can make cuts just after an aerial root. Then you have your choice of propagation methods. I like to root my plants in water, but you can root in soil, perlite, vermiculite, the list goes on! Just make sure to use clean pruners and clean or sterile pots, potting mediums and container.
You will not regret bringing this gorgeous plant into your home. You can adjust any of these care tips to fit your home and lifestyle.
Happy Gardening
Ciearra
