Monstera deliciosa is one of the most forgiving common houseplants, tolerant of missed waterings and a range of light levels, which is also why it's so often overwatered or left too dark to thrive.
If you have cats or dogs, see the pet safety table for the full toxicity rundown.
Light
Bright, indirect light. Tolerates medium light, but new leaves split less and growth slows.
Water
Water when the top 1-2 inches (3-5 cm) of soil are dry, checked by finger. More often in the growing season, less in winter.
Humidity
Average home humidity is fine. 40-60% or higher speeds up growth and leaf size.
Temperature
65-85°F (18-29°C). Avoid below 50°F (10°C) and cold drafts.
Fertilizing
Balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength once a month, spring through summer. Skip in winter.
Pruning
Trim leggy stems just above a node to encourage branching. Cut fully yellowed leaves off at the base — they won't turn green again.
Toxicity to pets
Toxic to cats and dogs (insoluble calcium oxalates). Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if chewed.
Common questions
How big do monsteras get indoors?
Given a pole or trellis to climb, an indoor monstera typically reaches 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 m). Left to sprawl without support, it stays smaller and produces less-split leaves.
Does a monstera need a moss pole?
Not strictly, but climbing on a moss pole or trellis is how it produces the biggest, most deeply split leaves. Without one, it still grows, just more like a trailing vine.
Why are my monstera's new leaves smaller and less split than the old ones?
Young plants and low light both produce smaller, less-fenestrated leaves. Give it more light and time — the classic split-leaf look comes with maturity.
Can a monstera grow in water instead of soil?
It can root and survive in water for a while, but it grows healthiest long-term potted in soil, where it can access more nutrients.
Related articles
Why is my monstera getting yellow leaves?
Yellow monstera leaves usually come down to watering, light or age. How to work out which one it is, and what to do about it.
Overwatered or underwatered? How to tell the difference
Both look like a drooping, yellowing plant — but the fixes are opposites. Four checks that tell you which problem you actually have.
This guide was researched and written with AI assistance and reviewed by a human editor before publishing. How we use AI