Monstera Spruceana

If you’re looking for a truly unique and stunning houseplant, the Monstera spruceana is a fantastic choice. This rare tropical houseplant offers a distinct look that sets it apart from its more common relatives. Its beautiful, textured leaves and manageable size make it a rewarding plant for collectors who want something a little different.

While it might be harder to find, caring for a Monstera spruceana is not as difficult as you might think. With the right knowledge, you can help this gorgeous plant thrive in your home. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from finding one to keeping it healthy for years to come.

This plant is often confused with others, like Monstera standleyana or even some Philodendron species. But it has its own special characteristics. Native to parts of South America, it’s a climber in its natural habitat. In your home, it will appreciate a moss pole or trellis to support its growth.

The leaves are the main attraction. They are elongated and slightly asymmetrical, with a rough, almost bumpy texture. You won’t see the large fenestrations (holes) of a Monstera deliciosa. Instead, the leaf may have a few irregular splits along the central vein as it matures. The deep green color and prominent veins add to its dramatic appearance.

Finding and Acquiring Your Plant

Because it’s rare, you won’t likely find Monstera spruceana at a big-box garden center. You’ll need to look a bit harder. Here are your best options:

Specialized Online Nurseries: Many rare plant shops now have an online presence. Always check reviews and phytosanitary certifications.
Plant BST Groups: “Buy, Sell, Trade” groups on social media are hotspots for rare plants. Be prepared to act fast when one is listed.
Local Plant Swaps: Connecting with other enthusiasts in your area can sometimes lead to cuttings or trades.
Etsy and eBay: Use with caution. Purchase only from sellers with extensive positive feedback specifically for live plants.

When you do find one, inspect it carefully or ask for detailed photos. Look for signs of pests, healthy root growth (if possible), and firm, unblemished leaves. The price can vary widely based on size and availability.

Ideal Light Conditions

Light is crucial for this plant’s health and growth. Getting it wrong is a common mistake. Monstera spruceana prefers bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight it would receive under the canopy of taller trees in the rainforest.

Best Spot: Near an east or north-facing window is often perfect. A few feet back from a south or west window, filtered by a sheer curtain, also works well.
Signs of Too Much Light: Leaves may develop crispy, brown edges or pale, washed-out patches. This is sunburn.
Signs of Too Little Light: Growth will become very slow, and the new leaves may be smaller and lack the characteristic texture. The stems might also become leggy as it stretches for light.

Avoid placing it in direct, harsh afternoon sun, as this will quickly damage the foliage. Rotate the pot a quarter turn every time you water to promote even growth.

Watering and Humidity Needs

Watering is where most houseplant problems start. Monstera spruceana likes its soil to partially dry out between waterings. It does not like to sit in constantly soggy soil, which leads to root rot.

Here’s a simple method to get it right:

Stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil.
If the soil feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water.
Water thoroughly until you see water flow freely from the drainage holes.
Empty the saucer or cache pot after 15 minutes so the roots aren’t sitting in water.

Humidity is another key factor. As a tropical plant, it appreciates higher humidity levels (above 50%). If your home is dry, especially in winter, try these tips:

Use a humidifier nearby (most effective).
Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot sits above the water line).
Group it with other plants to create a microclimate.

Brown, crispy leaf tips are often a sign of low humidity, while consistently yellowing lower leaves can signal overwatering.

Soil and Potting Mix

The right soil mix provides oxygen to the roots and prevents waterlogging. A well-draining, airy, and slightly chunky mix is ideal. You can easily make your own.

A good basic recipe is:

2 parts high-quality potting soil
1 part orchid bark (for aeration)
1 part perlite or pumice (for drainage)
A handful of horticultural charcoal (optional, helps keep soil fresh)

This mix mimics the loose, organic matter of the forest floor. Repot your Monstera spruceana every 2-3 years, or when you see roots circling the bottom of the pot. Choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger in diameter, and always use one with drainage holes. Spring or early summer is the best time to repot, when the plant is actively growing.

Fertilizing for Healthy Growth

During the active growing season (spring and summer), your plant will benefit from regular feeding. This provides the nutrients it needs to push out those beautiful new leaves.

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula).
Dilute it to half the strength recommended on the bottle.
Apply it once a month when you water.

In fall and winter, when growth naturally slows, stop fertilizing. The plant is resting and won’t use the extra nutrients, which can then build up and harm the roots. If you’ve just repotted into fresh soil, wait at least 2-3 months before fertilizing, as the new soil already contains nutrients.

Pruning and Propagation

Pruning helps maintain a nice shape and encourages bushier growth. You can also use the cuttings to make new plants! Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

To prune, simply cut back any overly long or leggy stems just above a leaf node (the bump on the stem where a leaf grows from). You can also remove any yellowing or damaged leaves at the base of their stem.

To propagate from a pruning cutting:

Choose a healthy stem with at least one node and one or two leaves.
Cut just below the 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.
Once roots are a few inches long (this can take several weeks), pot it up in your well-draining soil mix.

You can also propagate directly into moist sphagnum moss or perlite, which some find leads to stronger initial root growth.

Common Pests and Problems

Even with great care, pests can sometimes appear. Early detection is key. Monstera spruceana can be susceptible to common houseplant pests.

Spider Mites: Look for fine webbing and tiny speckles on leaves. Wipe leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: Appear as small, white, cottony masses in leaf axils. Dab with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Scale: Hard or soft brown bumps on stems and leaves. Scrape off gently and treat with horticultural oil.

Isolate any affected plant immediately to prevent the pests from spreading. Consistency is crucial with treatments; you’ll often need to reapply weekly for a month to break the pest life cycle. Keeping the leaves clean by wiping them with a damp cloth also helps prevent infestations.

Why Are My Leaves Not Splitting?

Leaf splitting (fenestration) in Monstera spruceana is subtle and inconsistent compared to other Monsteras. If you’re not seeing any, it’s usually due to insufficient light. Ensure the plant is getting enough bright, indirect light. Maturity is also a factor; younger plants often won’t produce split leaves.

Why Are the Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellow leaves can have a few causes. The most common is overwatering. Check your soil moisture habits. Other causes can be under-watering, a lack of nutrients, or a natural process where an old leaf dies off as the plant grows. If it’s just one lower leaf, don’t worry to much. If multiple leaves are yellowing, reassess your care routine.

FAQ

Is Monstera spruceana the same as Monstera standleyana?
No, they are different species. Spruceana has a rougher leaf texture and different growth habit. The leaves are often more elongated.

How fast does Monstera spruceana grow?
Growth speed is moderate. With ideal conditions, you can expect a few new leaves each growing season. It’s slower than a Monstera deliciosa.

Is Monstera spruceana toxic to pets?
Yes, like all Monsteras, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious cats and dogs to avoid mouth irritation and stomach upset.

Can Monstera spruceana live in low light?
It can survive in lower light, but it will not thrive. Growth will be very slow, and the plant may become leggy. For the best results, provide bright, indirect light.

What’s the best way to support a climbing Monstera spruceana?
A moss pole or coco coir pole is ideal. You can gently attach the stems to the pole with soft plant ties or twine. This encourages larger growth and mimics its natural habitat.

Caring for a Monstera spruceana is a enjoyable journey. Its unique beauty makes the extra effort to find one well worth it. Pay attention to its light, water, and humidity needs, and you’ll be rewarded with a striking and healthy plant that stands out in any collection. Remember, observation is your best tool; your plant will show you what it needs.