How to Care for a Mini Monstera Houseplant

If you are caring for a mini monstera plant, it’s important to note that this little guy isn’t actually a monstera at all. Named for its similarity in appearance to the monstera plant, mini monsteras are classified as Rhaphidophora tetrasperma. These split-leafed cuties are also similar to monsteras in that they thrive indoors, so long as you know how to properly care for them.

In this article, we’ll go over all of the care instructions you need for a mini monstera plant, including a bit more information about the plant itself. We’ll give you some tips as to the water and light requirements for this houseplant as well as some common problems you may run into as the plant ages. Let’s get started now!

What is a Mini Monstera?

Belonging to the Rhaphidophora genus, mini monsteras are distantly related to the monsteras we know and love. They are similar in a number of ways, including that they are both tropical, vining plants. Depending on the level of care it receives as well as the health of the individual plant, most mini monsteras reach up to 6 feet tall indoors if not a bit more. They produce charming split leaves that typically don’t reach over 6 inches long, and they vine well if given some support.

Mini Monstera Care: Keeping This Plant Happy

If you want to take care of a mini monstera in your own home, here are some of its requirements and preferences. Just like its cousin, the monstera deliciosa, make sure your mini monstera starts off in a properly-sized pot with room to grow and vine!

Water Requirements

While monsteras have three different types of roots, mini monsteras have delicate subterranean roots that can’t be subjected to too much water. While they’re still tropical plants and thrive in humid, moist conditions, your new houseplant will prefer to be kept consistently moist but not drenched. Root rot and root damage from overwatering are one of the primary killers of mini monsteras. 

Light Requirements

Given the compact size of mini monsteras, they grow naturally in the wild beneath the shade of other, larger plants. This is why they thrive in bright, indirect light, or gently filtered light such as through a sheer curtain. Take care that your mini monstera does not get too much direct sunlight, as their leaves can easily burn. 

Soil Requirements

Mini monsteras don’t have too many soil requirements, though they do prefer something that is slightly acidic. If you don’t have a houseplant potting mixture that includes soil as well as other materials such as peat or perlite you can mix your own. These monsteras need good drainage and this is easily accomplished by using a variety of materials, as well as stones at the base of your pot. 

Fertilizer or Food Requirements

After your new mini monstera plant has acclimated to its new home, you should fertilize it regularly in the springtime and summer. A basic houseplant fertilizer will do the trick when applied as part of your watering routine. If you want your monstera to reach its maximum height of 6-8 feet, regular fertilization and repotting are suggested. 

Common Problems and Pests of Mini Monsteras

Just like monsteras, mini monsteras can encounter some fairly basic problems and pests when grown indoors. One of the most important issues your watering routine. Make sure you aren’t overwatering or underwatering, and misting your mini monstera can help combat inconsistent moisture issues!

Some other problems and pests that may plague your mini monstera include:

• Gnats and mites. Common household pests can easily invade the pot of your mini monstera, but treating your plant with a basic insecticide should do the trick. There are other pests that may be troubling your plant, but a gentle insecticide spray will likely take care of any persistent issues!
• Ambient temperature. The average monstera plant can handle slightly cooler temperatures compared to the mini monstera. In fact, most mini monsteras shy away from temperatures under 69 degrees Fahrenheit. If your mini monstera seems to be wilting or simply dormant, try moving it to a warmer location in your home.
• Discolored or dried leaves. Mini monstera roots and leaves are much more sensitive compared to typical monstera plants. If you notice that your mini monstera’s leaves are drying out, take some extra time watering them. Counter to this, any discolored or browning leaves typically mean that you are overwatering your mini monstera. It’s a delicate balance, but you’ll no doubt find that balance in no time!

So, if you’re looking for a houseplant that has the potential to reach the ceiling, the mini monstera might be the right plant for you!

Up Next

• Monstera Deliciosa Plants: Discover This Popular Houseplant
• How to Propagate Monstera Plants: 6 Simple Steps
• Types of Monstera Plants: 9 Popular Varieties to Grow Now

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