Looking to add a monstera Peru to your houseplant collection? Its care differs from other monstera species, so make sure you know how to keep it happy. As an epiphyte, the monstera Peru naturally has an upward, vining growth habit and does well when provided with a support to climb such as a moss pole or trellis. That being said, you can also choose to grow your monstera Peru in a hanging basket or planter and allow its vining foliage to trail downwards. While monstera Peru flower when grown outdoors, it is extremely rare for them to flower indoors—so don’t panic if you don’t see any blooms on your plant, this is normal.
Light
Surprisingly, the monstera Peru does not require very much light in order to thrive indoors. A north-facing window that receives several hours of bright, indirect light is perfect for these tropical understory plants. Avoid locations that receive direct sunlight as the thick leaves of the monstera Peru are easily susceptible to sunburn and scorching.
Soil
As an epiphyte, the monstera peru does best in rich, airy, well-draining soil. A mixture of one part coco coir, one part orchid bark, and one part perlite provides the perfect amount of drainage, moisture retention, and nutritional content for these monsteras.
Water
The thick leaves of the monstera Peru make this monstera species more drought tolerant than many of its cousins, and it should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings. This monstera should not be allowed to sit in wet soil for an extended period of time as it is susceptible to root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Monstera Peru is native to the tropical regions of Peru and requires warm, humid temperatures in order to survive. Ideally, keep temperatures between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (16 to 30 degrees Celsius) and choose a location that is naturally humid—such as the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room. Alternatively, you can increase humidity around the plant by placing a pebble tray beneath the pot or putting a humidifier nearby.
Fertilizer
Monstera Peru appreciates regular fertilization with a mild, balanced fertilizer throughout the spring and summer months. Apply the fertilizer once every 3 to 4 weeks during watering. Avoid fertilizing your monstera Peru during the winter when the plant goes into dormancy.
Propagating Monstera Peru
The monstera Peru can be easily propagated by stem cuttings. Propagating is a great way to start new plants, or to fill out existing plants by replanting the newly rooted cuttings back in the original pot. Follow these simple steps to propagate your monstera Peru.
Common Pests
The monstera Peru is susceptible to a range of common houseplant pests, particularly fungus gnats, mealy bugs, scale, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pests is the best way to prevent an infestation. If you notice signs of pests on your monstera Peru, be sure to isolate it from your other houseplants and treat it with the appropriate insecticide until the infestation has subsided.
Common Problems With Monstera Peru
Generally the monstera Peru is a low-maintenance houseplant that is relatively problem-free. However, there are a few common problems that you may encounter as you learn to care for these tropical plants indoors.
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves are usually an indication that your plant is not receiving enough sunlight, or that your plant is overwatered. Ensure that your monstera Peru is receiving several hours of bright, indirect light every day. It should never be placed more than a couple feet away from a bright, sunny window otherwise it may begin to show signs of distress such as yellowing leaves. Avoid overwatering your plant by waiting until the soil has dried completely before watering again.
Faded Leaves
Pale, faded leaves can be a sign that your plant is receiving too much sunlight and can sometimes be accompanied by scorched or sun-bleached spots on the leaves. Avoid exposing your monstera Peru to any extended period of direct sunlight. Remember that these monsteras do not require as much light as other species of monstera such as the deliciosa or adansonii.
Dropping Leaves
If your monstera Peru is dropping leaves, it is likely either overwatered, or underwatered. If it is overwatered, you should also notice stems that look wilted or rotted and soil that stays moist for an extended period of time. If it is under watered, you may notice that the leaves have crispy edges, or that the soil is dry and compacted.
