Monstera standleyana
Monstera standleyana
Commonly known as the 'Cobra Plant', Monstera standleyana is a sophisticated vining aroid native to Central America. Unlike its famous relative, Monstera deliciosa, it produces elongated, lance-shaped leaves that rarely develop fenestrations. It is highly prized for its 'Albo Variegata' form, which features a mesmerizing array of creamy white speckles, splashes, and broad sectoral stripes against a deep, glossy green backdrop. As a hemiepiphyte, it is naturally inclined to climb, making it a striking choice for vertical indoor gardens.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Warning
Like most members of the Araceae family, this plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, it can cause severe oral irritation, swelling of the lips and tongue, and gastrointestinal distress in pets and humans.
Care Guide
Monstera standleyana Care Guide
Light Requirements
To maintain its vibrant variegation, provide plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch the delicate variegated sections, but beware that low light will cause the plant to revert to a solid green color.
Watering & Drainage
Water thoroughly when the top two inches of soil have dried out. This plant is susceptible to root rot, so it is essential to use a pot with drainage holes and avoid letting the roots sit in standing water.
Humidity and Temperature
Thrives in warm environments with temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C - 29°C). As a tropical species, it prefers humidity levels above 60%. Use a humidifier or pebble tray to prevent the edges of the leaves from turning brown and crispy.
Support and Growth
While it can trail, this plant grows most vigorously and produces larger leaves when provided with a moss pole or wooden trellis to climb. This mimics its natural behavior of growing up trees in the rainforest.
Common Issues
Keep an eye out for spider mites and thrips. Regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and inspect for pests.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid foliage fertilizer
Soil
A chunky, well-aerated potting mix such as an aroid blend containing orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
3-6 feet indoors (vining or climbing)
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Easily propagated via stem cuttings. Ensure each cutting has at least one node and root it in water, moist sphagnum moss, or perlite.