Meet the Monster in Monstera! 

Monstera is the friendly "monster" of the plant world. It is a very large plant that has the iconic split leaves that give its unique appearance. It is native to tropical rainforests, living in the understory and climbing up trunks of trees. 

Meet the Monster Lineup: Common Monstera Cultivars  

Monstera deliciosa (The Classic Monster)   
Known for large, iconic splits and fenestrations (holes) that resemble "monster claws." These prefer moderate watering, indirect light, and well-draining soil.  

Monstera adansonii (Swiss Cheese Monster)                                 
This variety has smaller leaves with distinctive "Swiss cheese" holes which are perfect for a "holey" Halloween theme. It loves climbing or trailing and needs higher humidity. 

Monstera 'Thai Constellation' (Spotted Monster)                               
A unique variegated type with cream splashes—like a monster covered in stars. These need bright, indirect light to maintain variegation.  

 Monstera ‘Albo’ (The Ghost Monster)                                             
The white variegation gives this plant a ghostly, haunting look. This is similar in care to 'Thai Constellation' but more sensitive to low light.   

Caring for Your Indoor Monster  

Your Monstera monsters will be happiest with bright, indirect light. They also don’t like soggy feet—let the soil dry out between waterings. You can create a "monster-friendly" humid environment with table top humidifiers in the same room. Avoid misting as it can cause mineral spots on the leaves.  

When repotting use well-draining soil; repot when roots escape the pot (your "monster" is getting too big for its lair!). Chalet private label Potting Soil Mix is perfect, designed for plants that stay in the same container for many years without breaking down.             

Decorate with Monstrously Spooky Plants for Fun this Halloween.

Dress up your Monstera with Halloween-themed decorations—think mini pumpkins, spiderwebs, or bats hanging from its vines. Or add in orange battery powered mini light for an extra spooky twinkle.  These are perfect as a centerpiece for your October parties! The Monstera’s jungle vibe gives it a "creepy, tropical" atmosphere.  

***Did you know that the name “Monstera” comes from the Latin word for "monstrous" due to its unusually large and perforated leaves?***   

Adopt a Monstera Monster this October! 
 The Monstera as the perfect houseplant companion for Fall, adding both greenery and a playful Halloween twist. Find them here at Chalet in the Garden Shops and the Glasshouse.   

Jennifer Brennan

Chalet Horticulturist