Shingle Plant
monstera dubia
Also known as: ["Shingle Plant","Shingle Vine"]
Overview
A tropical aroid with heart-shaped leaves that flatten against surfaces as it climbs, native to Central and South America.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","climbing vine","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Monstera |
| Botanical Name: | Monstera dubia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with climbing support
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, airy mix like peat-based with perlite or orchid bark.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; avoid direct sun; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid drafty windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from vents or drafty areas; maintain stable warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in low light; apply after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least one node; air layering is also effective for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or sphagnum moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation container, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; change water if using aquatic propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or aerial root; pinch tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; trim to control size and shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at an angle; remove dead/damaged leaves; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before the main growing season.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), brown leaf tips (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil stays cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, avoid cold drafts, and ensure soil doesn't stay wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow due to excessive evaporation.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade during peak heat, and water more frequently if soil dries out quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools afterward.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicMonstera dubia is toxic to cats, causing irritation and inflammation in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract due to calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Monstera dubia can lead to oral and gastrointestinal irritation in dogs due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicMonstera dubia contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Monstera dubia?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, high humidity, and well-draining soil. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: Is Monstera dubia toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing mouth irritation and digestive upset.
Q: Why are my Monstera dubia leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, low light, or nutrient deficiency. Adjust care accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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