The window leaf is an enrichment for every room because it improves the air quality. There are around 50 species worldwide, a fraction of which are suitable for pot cultivation.
Table of Contents
Affenmaske (Monstera adansonii)
There are hardly any limits to the creativity of the choice of name for this species, because it is also known in English as ” Monkey Leaf ” or “Swiss Cheese Plant”. The name “monkey mask” comes from the fact that the researcher who described this species at the time observed a monkey holding a sheet of paper in front of its face and making it look like a mask.
Monstera adansonii ‘Archipelago‘:
- bright to semi-shady location, without direct sun
- tends to root rot if the substrate is too moist
- green and white variegated leaves
- large proportion of white
- holes no slits
- Climbing aid usually necessary
wild form:
- tolerates shady locations
- more tolerant of short-term waterlogging and drought
- prefers warm locations with high humidity
- tends to leaf spots when cared for incorrectly
Karstenianum (Monstera karstenianum)
A window leaf does not necessarily have to have slit or perforated leaves. Karstenianum is an example of how whole leaves can also be attractive. The variety is also strong tendrils, but has the advantage that it does not necessarily need a climbing aid. However, if it is in an elevated position such as on a cupboard or shelf, you can simply let the tendrils grow downwards.
The leaves, which are green with light green spots but do not have a distinctive edge, are visually interesting. The leaves are not smooth and, especially where they are lighter in color, appear as if they have blisters.
Delicious Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
The delicious monstera occupies a special position compared to other species, because it is the most common Monstera species offered as a houseplant worldwide. In addition to the wild form, there are numerous breeds that have large variations in the leaves.
The reason for the popularity of this species is that it is very easy to care for. It starts with the cultural form. It can be grown hydroponically or planted in soil. In the case of soil, it prefers slightly acidic substrates. A mixture of potting soil and rhododendron soil is ideal. The formation of aerial roots is also an advantage, because you can place the roots in a bucket of water without having to water them for several weeks. Above all, the wild form of the delicious window leaf is also suitable for cleaning the aquarium water due to its insensitivity to waterlogging.
Borsigiana:
- most common culture
- Leaves narrow and small
- fewer breaks in the sheet
- slow growth
Marmorata:
- variegated leaves
- yellow spots
- requires very high humidity
Salt & Pepper: - green and white variegated leaves
- small stains
Thai Constellation:
- up to 2 m in height
- well suited for shady locations
- green and white variegated leaves
- Spots rather small, often just speckles
Varied:
- green and white variegated leaves
- slow growth
- requires a lot of heat
- in dark locations, the white spots disappear
wild form:
- up to 7 m in height
- Single leaf up to 50 cm long
- dark green color
- prefers constantly moist substrate
- susceptible to spider mites and lice if too dry
- Climbing aid is occasionally needed
- Outdoor cultivation possible over the summer
Monstera dubia
An unusual variant of the window leaf is the Monstera dubia. Not only does it have no holes in the leaves, it also grows almost flat on its trellis. As a result, a staff is not enough for her to climb, but she needs a wide surface like a board on which she can grow up. The species is originally native to Central and South America and grows directly on the trunk of trees up to the summit. Not only does its main shoot lie close to it, even the leaves lie almost flat on the substrate.
- green and white leaves
- only leaf veins are intense green
- Leaf diameter of older plants approx. 35 cm
- semi-shady locations preferred
- moderately moist substrate
Monstera pinnatipartita
Monstera pinnatipartita is particularly popular with terrarium owners who need exotic plants. Compared to many other species, it remains small in stature and also reaches a maximum height of one meter.
What is striking about this species are the leaves, which are green in the basic tone, but have a yellowish tinge. They do not have a clear spot demarcation as in variegated varieties. At first glance, it often looks as if the plant is not completely healthy.
This window leaf usually finds ideal conditions in the terrarium. When cultivated outside normally, it is important that it gets sufficient humidity and is occasionally sprayed with water.
Crooked window leaf (Monstera obliqua)
These monstera are the only species most likely to produce flowers. The shape of the flower resembles the calla and is white. However, optimal care conditions must be guaranteed for all varieties to flower. With a bit of luck, a fruit will form after flowering that would be edible and taste like a pineapple.
light lineii:
- partially shaded location
- holes and slits
- Height up to 2 m
- moderately moist substrate preferred
- sensitive to waterlogging
- slow growth
- Regular fertilization promotes flowering
wild form:
- holes very large
- Leaves appear as if only leaf veins were left
- sensitive to drought
- partially shaded location
- prefers temperatures around 18°C
Pointed Monstera (Monstera acuminata)
The species remains small in the size of the leaves with a length of 15 cm, but Monstera acuminata is a climbing plant with a very strong growth. If you have space in the apartment, you can also let them grow across shelves, lamps or boxes. The advantage is that it is extremely easy to cut and can be shortened again at any time.
wild form:
- partially shaded location
- requires moderately moist substrate
- low nutrient requirements
- insensitive to pests and diseases
- Wipe or spray leaves occasionally
