If you’re looking for a truly special houseplant that stands out from the common Monstera deliciosa, let me introduce you to the Monstera acacoyaguensis. This rare tropical foliage plant is a stunning, lesser-known relative that deserves a spot in any serious collector’s home.
Its beautiful, elongated leaves develop dramatic, irregular fenestrations as it matures. Caring for it is simpler than you might think for such a exotic-looking specimen.
Monstera Acacoyaguensis
This plant is native to the rainforests of regions like Chiapas in Mexico and parts of Guatemala. It’s a climber in its natural habitat, using its aerial roots to attach to trees. Unlike some monsteras, its leaves are typically longer than they are wide, giving it an elegant, sleek appearance.
The fenestrations (those holes and splits) are its main attraction. They appear as the plant ages, creating a beautiful, intricate pattern.
How to Identify This Rare Plant
It’s easy to confuse with other monsteras, so look for these key features. The leaves are a deep, glossy green and have a leathery texture. Juvenile leaves are smaller and solid, but they quickly begin to form splits along the midrib first.
As the plant matures, the fenestrations become more complex, often with several holes of varying sizes on a single leaf. The leaf shape is distinctly elongated and oval, tapering to a point.
Monstera Acacoyaguensis vs. Monstera Adansonii
Many people mix up these two plants. The adansonii has much thinner, almost papery leaves with more uniform, roundish holes. The acacoyaguensis has thicker, sturdier leaves with more random, sometimes teardrop-shaped fenestrations. The overall growth habit of the acacoyaguensis is also more robust.
Perfect Growing Conditions
Replicating its tropical home is the secret to success. You don’t need a greenhouse, but paying attention to a few key factors will keep your plant thriving.
Light Requirements
This plant prefers bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would get under the forest canopy. A spot near an east or north-facing window is ideal. A south or west window can work if you filter the light with a sheer curtain.
Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves, causing yellow or brown patches. If the stems become long and leggy with small leaves, it’s a sign it needs more light.
Soil and Potting Mix
Well-draining soil is absolutely non-negotiable. Roots that sit in water will rot. A good, airy mix allows water to flow through while retaining some moisture.
You can use a high-quality aroid mix, or make your own. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 2 parts high-quality potting soil
- 1 part orchid bark (for chunkiness and aeration)
- 1 part perlite or pumice (for drainage)
- A handful of horticultural charcoal (to keep the mix fresh)
Watering Your Plant Correctly
This is where most people go wrong. The goal is to keep the soil lightly moist, but never soggy. Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it still feels damp, wait a few more days.
Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, then empty the saucer underneath. In winter, when growth slows, you’ll need to water much less frequently. Overwatering is a far greater risk than underwatering for this plant.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, it enjoys warmth and humidity. Aim for temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C – 29°C). Keep it away from cold drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents.
Humidity above 50% is best. If your home is dry, especially in winter, try these tips:
- Use a humidifier nearby (most effective method).
- Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
- Group it with other plants to create a microclimate.
Feeding and Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring and summer), feed your plant monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute it to half the strength recommended on the bottle. This provides nutrients without risking fertilizer burn.
In fall and winter, you can stop fertilizing altogether as the plant’s growth naturally slows. Always water the soil lightly before applying fertilizer to protect the roots.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning isn’t strictly necessary for health, but it helps control size and shape. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. You can trim back any long, unruly vines to a node (the bump on the stem where leaves and roots grow from).
Regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust. This allows the plant to breathe and photosynthesize efficiently. It also gives you a chance to check for pests.
Supporting Its Growth Habit
Remember, this is a natural climber. Providing a moss pole or a wooden plank for support mimics its native environment and encourages larger, more mature leaf growth. Attach the stems gently to the pole using soft plant ties or twine as it grows.
The aerial roots will eventually attach to the moss pole if you keep it slightly moist. This support leads to a taller, more impressive plant compared to a trailing one.
How to Propagate New Plants
Propagating is a great way to share this rare plant with friends. The best method is stem cuttings. Here’s how to do it, step by step:
- Identify a healthy stem with at least one node and one leaf.
- Using a clean tool, cut just below a node.
- Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged but the leaf is not.
- Put it in a spot with bright, indirect light.
- Change the water every few days to keep it fresh.
- In a few weeks, you should see roots sprouting from the node.
- Once the roots are a few inches long, pot the cutting in your well-draining soil mix.
You can also propagate directly in moist sphagnum moss or perlite, which some find reduces transplant shock.
Common Pests and Problems
Even with great care, issues can arise. Catching them early is key.
Yellowing Leaves
This is often a sign of overwatering. Check your soil moisture and adjust your schedule. Older leaves yellowing and falling off occasionally is normal.
Brown, Crispy Leaf Edges
Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase moisture in the air and check if the plant is getting too dry between waterings.
Pest Infestations
Watch for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. They look like tiny dots or cottony masses on leaves and stems. Treat them promptly by wiping leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil solution. Isolating the affected plant helps prevent spread.
Where to Find One for Sale
Because it’s a rare tropical foliage plant, you won’t likely find it at a big-box store. Check specialized online plant shops, Etsy sellers, or local plant nurseries that focus on rare aroids. Be prepared for a higher price tag than common houseplants, and always buy from a reputable source to ensure you get a healthy, correctly identified plant.
FAQ
How fast does Monstera acacoyaguensis grow?
With good light, warmth, and humidity, it has a moderate growth rate. You can expect several new leaves each growing season, especially if it’s provided with a support to climb.
Is Monstera acacoyaguensis pet-friendly?
No. Like other plants in the Araceae family, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It’s best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.
Why are the new leaves on my plant not splitting?
Fenestrations are a sign of maturity. Young plants and new leaves often start out solid. Be patient. Ensure it’s getting enough bright indirect light, as insufficient light is the main reason mature plants fail to develop splits.
How big do the leaves get?
In perfect indoor conditions, leaves can grow over a foot long. The size is influenced by light, support, and the overall health of the plant. A climbing plant will produce much larger leaves than one left to trail.
Should I mist the leaves for humidity?
Misting provides only a very temporary boost in humidity and can sometimes promote fungal issues if water sits on the leaves. Using a humidifier or a pebble tray is a more effective and consistent method for raising humidity around your plant.
Adding a Monstera acacoyaguensis to your collection brings a touch of the exotic rainforest into your home. Its striking fenestrated leaves are a constant reward for providing the simple care it needs. With the right balance of light, water, and humidity, this rare gem will thrive and become a stunning focal point for years to come.