Monstera lechleriana aka Split Leaf

Monstera lechleriana is considered a moderately easy plant to care for, making it suitable for intermediate plant owners. It's more forgiving than many tropical aroids and less demanding than the similar-looking Monstera adansonii. The main care considerations are avoiding overwatering (which leads to root rot), providing bright indirect light, and offering support for climbing. With proper conditions, this species is relatively low-maintenance and will reward you with impressive fenestrated foliage.

In its native rainforest habitat, Monstera lechleriana can climb up to 23 feet (7 meters) as it ascends tree trunks. As a houseplant, it typically reaches 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) when provided with a moss pole or similar support structure. The mature leaves are impressively large, reaching 30-47 inches (75-120 cm) long and 14-28 inches (35-70 cm) wide. This species has a moderate growth rate, slower than M. adansonii but steady with proper care. Providing climbing support encourages larger leaves with more fenestrations.

Monstera lechleriana thrives in temperatures between 55-80°F (12-27°C), making average household temperatures ideal. The plant cannot tolerate frost and begins to stress below 50°F (10°C). Avoid placing it near cold drafts, heating vents, or air conditioning units, as sudden temperature fluctuations can cause leaf yellowing and stress. This tropical species can tolerate brief periods of higher temperatures (into the 90s°F) if protected from direct sun and provided with adequate humidity.

Monstera lechleriana can flower but rarely does so indoors. In its natural habitat, mature specimens produce typical aroid flowers consisting of a cream to pale yellow spadix surrounded by a white to pale yellow spathe. However, indoor plants seldom bloom as flowering requires 6-8 years of maturity and specific environmental conditions (high humidity, abundant light, seasonal cues) that are difficult to replicate indoors. If fruiting does occur, the spadix produces cream to yellow berry-like fruits containing brown, oblong seeds.

The most notable cultivated variety is Monstera lechleriana 'Albo' (also called Albo Variegata), which features stunning white and cream variegation in marbled or sectoral patterns against the deep green foliage. This rare variegated form has recently entered the market and commands premium prices due to limited availability. The standard green form is more widely available and still prized for its distinctive elongated leaves with elegant fenestrations near the midrib.

Monstera lechleriana can be grown outdoors year-round only in USDA zones 10-12, which includes parts of Florida, Southern California, and Hawaii. It requires frost-free conditions as leaves are damaged at 30-32°F and stems at 26-28°F. In suitable climates, plant in a shaded location with dappled light, protected from direct afternoon sun. In cooler zones, the plant can be moved outdoors during warm summer months (consistently above 50°F) but must be brought inside before temperatures drop in autumn.

Monstera lechleriana requires minimal pruning. Remove any yellowing, damaged, or diseased leaves by cutting at the base of the petiole with sterilized scissors. This helps the plant direct energy to healthy growth. Pruning leggy growth can encourage bushier development. The best time to prune is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Any healthy cuttings with nodes can be propagated to create new plants.

Repot Monstera lechleriana every 1-2 years, or when you notice signs of being root-bound such as roots growing out of drainage holes or circling the pot surface. The best time for repotting is spring when the plant is entering its active growing season. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, with adequate drainage holes. Avoid oversized pots as excess soil retains moisture and can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining aroid mix with perlite for best results.

Monstera lechleriana is propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section with at least one node (the raised bump where leaves and aerial roots emerge) and cut about half an inch below the node using sterilized scissors. For water propagation, place the cutting in clean water with the node submerged, changing water every few days. Roots typically develop within 4-6 weeks. Alternatively, plant directly in moist, well-draining soil with the node buried. Maintain bright indirect light and humidity during rooting. Cuttings with existing aerial roots root faster but are not required for success.

Yellow leaves on Monstera lechleriana most commonly indicate overwatering, which causes root stress and yellowing starting with lower leaves. If soil feels soggy or stays wet for over a week, reduce watering frequency. Underwatering can also cause yellowing throughout the plant with dry, crispy patches. Other causes include insufficient light, nutrient deficiency (consider fertilizing during growing season), and natural aging of older leaves. If only the oldest bottom leaves yellow while new growth is healthy, this is normal leaf senescence.

Brown tips on Monstera lechleriana typically indicate low humidity; increase humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, or regular misting. Brown edges can also result from underwatering, allowing soil to dry completely. Brown spots may signal fungal or bacterial disease from excessive moisture on leaves or overwatering—improve air circulation and let soil dry between waterings. Direct sunlight causes crispy brown patches from leaf scorch; move to bright indirect light. Mineral buildup from tap water can cause browning; switch to filtered or rainwater if this is suspected.

Drooping in Monstera lechleriana is usually caused by watering issues. If the soil is very dry, the plant needs water—give it a thorough soak and it should recover within hours. If soil is wet and the plant droops, overwatering or root rot is likely the cause; let soil dry out and check roots for mushiness (trim any rotted portions and repot in fresh soil). Transplant shock after repotting can cause temporary drooping; be patient and maintain consistent care. Extreme temperatures or cold drafts can also cause wilting—move away from vents and drafty windows.

Common pests include spider mites (look for fine webbing and stippled leaves), mealybugs (white cottony masses), and thrips (tiny insects causing silvery damage). Treat infestations by wiping leaves with diluted isopropyl alcohol or neem oil solution, repeating every 4-7 days until resolved. Root rot from overwatering is the most common disease; prevent by using well-draining soil and allowing partial drying between waterings. Bacterial and fungal leaf spots can develop in overly humid conditions with poor air circulation. Quarantine new plants and inspect regularly to catch problems early.

Clean Monstera lechleriana leaves regularly to remove dust that blocks light absorption and can harbor pests. Gently wipe leaves with a soft, damp cloth at least once a month. For larger plants, showering the foliage with lukewarm water works well. Avoid commercial leaf shine products as they can clog leaf pores. Regular cleaning also provides an opportunity to inspect for pests—check both upper and lower leaf surfaces while cleaning.

Split Leaf’s native range is Central America.

Split Leaf should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Split Leaf loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Split Leaf prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

The Split Leaf does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

The Split Leaf should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

During the cold period, it is common for Split Leaf to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.