Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
Monstera Esqueleto is a dramatic climbing aroid prized for its large, highly fenestrated leaves filled with elongated openings that can leave relatively little solid leaf tissue between them. As the plant matures and climbs, its foliage can become significantly larger and increasingly perforated, creating the skeletal appearance behind the name “Esqueleto,” Spanish for “skeleton.” Its unusual leaves make it an impressive statement plant for a bright indoor space and a favorite among collectors of unusual Monsteras.
The plant is commonly sold as Monstera ‘Esqueleto’. It has historically been confused with and sold under names such as Monstera epipremnoides, but ‘Esqueleto’ is the name most commonly used in cultivation for this distinctive plant. It should also not be confused with Monstera adansonii, which typically has smaller leaves and a different fenestration pattern.
Monstera Esqueleto does best in bright, indirect light. Plenty of filtered light encourages larger leaves and stronger fenestration as the plant matures. It can tolerate some gentle morning sun, but prolonged intense direct sunlight can scorch the foliage.
Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain. It prefers consistent moisture during active growth but should not remain soggy or waterlogged. Reduce watering somewhat during periods of slower growth.
Use a well-draining, chunky aroid potting mix in a container with drainage. A mixture containing houseplant soil or coco coir, orchid bark, perlite or pumice, and other coarse amendments works well. The roots appreciate a combination of moisture retention and plenty of airflow.
Monstera Esqueleto prefers warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. Higher humidity can encourage healthy new leaves and help prevent dry or crispy edges, particularly as the foliage becomes larger and more fenestrated. Good airflow is beneficial in humid environments.
This plant has a strong climbing growth habit and benefits greatly from a moss pole, plank, or other sturdy vertical support. Allowing the aerial roots to attach to a support can encourage progressively larger and more mature foliage. Without support, the plant may remain smaller and develop a more sprawling growth habit.
Monstera Esqueleto is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Like other Monsteras, it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause intense irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, along with drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Upcoming Events: Tissue Culture Workshop August 29 @ 11 am / Macramé Air Plant Holder Class Sunday Sept. 13th @ 3 pm / Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm
