Monstera Obliqua Care: How to Grow This Ultra-Rare, Holey Beauty
Monstera Obliqua is a rare tropical plant known for its ultra-thin, hole-filled leaves. It grows best in bright, indirect light, warm temperatures (68–82°F), and high humidity above 70%. Keep the soil lightly moist, never soggy, and use a well-draining, airy mix to prevent root rot.
What Makes Monstera Obliqua So Special
Monstera Obliqua is one of the most coveted tropical houseplants, prized for its paper-thin leaves that look almost like green lace. Native to Central and South American rainforests, this plant grows slowly and demands very specific care.
Its leaves feature exaggerated fenestrations—often more hole than leaf—making it visually distinct from the more common Monstera adansonii. Because of its fragility, it’s best suited for experienced collectors or those ready for a challenge.
Light Requirements for Monstera Obliqua
Place your Monstera Obliqua in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate leaves.
To mimic its rainforest habitat, situate your plant a few feet away from a bright east- or west-facing window. If natural light is limited, supplement with a full-spectrum grow light for 10–12 hours daily.
Insufficient light causes slower growth and smaller leaves, while too much light leads to crispy edges. If you notice bleaching or curling, move it slightly farther from the window.
How to Water Monstera Obliqua
Water your Monstera Obliqua once the top inch of soil feels dry. Use filtered or room-temperature water, and ensure excellent drainage.
Key Watering Tips:
- Check soil moisture with your finger before each watering.
- Always empty saucers or cache pots after watering to prevent root rot.
- Reduce watering frequency in winter when growth naturally slows.
- Increase humidity and watering slightly during hot or dry months.
If your home has dry air, use a humidifier or set the pot on a pebble tray to keep humidity high without overwatering. Read our article about 12 Ways to Increase Humidity for Houseplants.
Best Soil for Monstera Obliqua
Use a chunky, well-aerated soil mix that drains quickly but retains some moisture.
Here’s a balanced mix you can create at home:
- 40% orchid bark
- 30% coco coir or peat moss
- 20% perlite or pumice
- 10% worm castings or compost
This blend prevents soggy roots while providing nutrients for steady growth. Repot every 2–3 years, only going up one pot size each time.
Fertilizing Monstera Obliqua
Feed your plant monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Look for a 20-20-20 formula for even leaf and root development.
Avoid overfertilizing—it can burn roots and cause brown spots. During fall and winter, skip fertilizing altogether while the plant rests.
Read more about: Best Fertilizers for Indoor Plants
Potting and Repotting Tips
Choose a pot only slightly larger than your current one, with good drainage holes. When repotting:
- Loosen the root ball gently.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Fill gaps with your soil mix and water lightly.
A terracotta pot works beautifully since it wicks away extra moisture and keeps roots healthy.
Propagating Monstera Obliqua
Propagate Monstera Obliqua through stem cuttings with at least one node and one healthy leaf.
Step-by-Step Propagation:
- Take a cutting just below a node using sterilized scissors.
- Place it in moist sphagnum moss or LECA.
- Keep humidity above 80% and temperature between 70–80°F.
- Once roots reach 1–2 inches, transfer to a pot with your regular soil mix.
Propagation can take several weeks to months—patience is essential with this rare plant.
Growth and Development
Monstera Obliqua is a slow grower that rewards consistent care. With ideal light, warmth, and humidity, it gradually develops larger, more fenestrated leaves.
Keep it away from cold drafts and sudden temperature drops. Using a moss pole or trellis encourages upright growth and helps the plant develop stronger leaves.
Common Pests and Diseases
Like most tropical houseplants, Monstera Obliqua can attract a few pests:
- Spider mites: Fine webbing and yellowing leaves
- Scale insects: Small, brown bumps on stems
- Whiteflies: Tiny flying insects that weaken new growth
- Fungus gnats: A sign of overwatering and damp soil
To prevent infestations, inspect leaves regularly and wipe them with neem oil or insecticidal soap every few weeks. Ensure good airflow and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues like leaf spot.
Buying and Identifying a Real Monstera Obliqua
Due to its rarity, Monstera Obliqua is often mislabeled or sold as Monstera Adansonii. True Obliqua has:
- Thinner leaves (almost papery)
- Larger, more irregular holes
- Slower growth pattern
Always buy from verified plant collectors or specialty shops that can confirm its origin. Avoid listings that don’t provide close-up photos of the leaves.
Quick Care Recap
| Care Aspect | Ideal Conditions |
|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light |
| Water | When top inch of soil is dry |
| Humidity | 70%+ |
| Temperature | 68–82°F (20–28°C) |
| Fertilizer | Monthly, diluted 20-20-20 |
| Soil | Airy, chunky, well-draining mix |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings in moss or LECA |
Tips for Success
- Use a humidifier near your Obliqua for consistent moisture.
- Avoid tap water with heavy minerals—filtered water is best.
- Rotate the pot every few weeks for even growth.
- Don’t panic if growth seems slow—it’s completely normal.
FAQs
How often should I water Monstera Obliqua?
Once or twice a week, depending on humidity and temperature. Always check soil moisture first.
Is Monstera Obliqua hard to care for?
Yes, it’s considered advanced due to its slow growth, humidity needs, and sensitivity to light.
What’s the difference between Monstera Obliqua and Adansonii?
Obliqua’s leaves are thinner and have more holes. Adansonii’s are thicker, heart-shaped, and easier to care for.
Can I grow Monstera Obliqua in LECA?
Yes, but you must maintain high humidity and steady nutrients. Semi-hydro setups can work beautifully for experienced growers.
Why is Monstera Obliqua so expensive?
It’s rare in cultivation, slow to propagate, and often grown only by collectors.