Are you looking for a show-stopping houseplant? Look no further than the Monstera Borsigiana.
This beautiful plant is sure to bring life and color into any room with its striking leaves and unique shape.
Not only does this plant have an eye-catching appearance, but it’s surprisingly easy to care for too.
With just a few simple tips, you can keep your Monstera Borsigiana happy and healthy. Read on to learn more about Monstera Borsigiana Care and things to avoid doing to keep it looking its best.
| Scientific name | Monstera Borsigiana |
| Other names | Monstera deliciosa Swiss cheese plant |
| Native | Mexico and Panama |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Monstera |
| Growth zone | USDA 10b to 12 |
| Plant type | Evergreen |
| Growth size | 6-9 feet tall |
| Growth rate | Moderate to fast |
| Leaves | Variegated and fenestrated |
| Flowering | During maturity |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans and pets |
| Common pests | Spider mites Aphids Scales Mealy bugs Thrips |
| Diseases | Southern blight Bacterial leaf spot Powdery mildew |
What is Monstera Borsigiana?
Monstera Borsigiana is an incredibly unique and tropical plant native to Mexico and Panama.
Also known by its scientific name Monstera deliciosa Borsigiana, this exotic species belongs to the family Araceae.
It grows best in warm climates or USDA zones 10 – 12, making it a great choice for greenhouse gardening conditions.
This plant type is a climbing vine characterized by big glossy leaves that come in various shades of yellow and green.
Its overall size can range from 6-19 feet with about 3-4 feet of vertical growth each year, depending on the directions you choose to train your vine.
With just a bit of love and attention, Monstera Borsigiana can make for a stunning feature anywhere in your garden.
Note that there are different types of Monstera such as monstera borsigiana aurea, monstera borsigiana variegata and monstera borsigiana albo variegata.
How Do You Identify a Monstera Borsigiana?
Before you start caring for a Monstera Borsigiana, it’s important to be able to identify it.
This species is often confused with other tropical plants, so you want to be certain of what you’re dealing with before you begin.
How to Identify Young Monstera Borsigiana
Young Monstera Borsigiana can be a tricky species to identify, as it is easy to confuse with other vining plants.
To pinpoint this particular variety of Monstera, look for its characteristic leaf shape. It should be oval-shaped and have pointed tips.
Additionally, the leaves are typically bright green in color and feature prominent veins that commonly run parallel down them.
The stems of Monstera Borsigiana are thin and often come with a few aerial roots (or rootlets) along its length which help climb sturdy supports or structures.
It also has an extensive root system, with both fibrous surface and creeping rhizomes below ground. This makes it highly resilient towards environmental changes.
In habitats where mature fruit-bearing is possible (flowers do not appear on indoor plants), the fruits take on a yellowish tone when ripe.
Supported by another structure like a bamboo cane to prevent any potential damage or rot caused by weight.
How to Identify Mature Monstera Borsigiana
Mature Monstera Borsigiana can be identified by its large, glossy leaves and unique pattern of holes or fenestrations in each leaf.
These oval-shaped leaves typically come in shades of yellow and dark green leaves, with prominent veins running across them.
The stems of mature monstera Borsigiana plants are slightly thicker than younger ones and have more pronounced aerial roots.
Mature Monstera Borsigiana also has an extensive root system, with both fibrous surface and creeping rhizomes.
The rhizomes help the plant to spread and thrive in its environment. Fruits of Mature Monstera Borsigiana are small, green-brown berries that contain a single seed.
The plant’s environment also plays a role in helping to identify it. Mature Monstera Borsigiana prefers humid, tropical climates and is usually found growing on trees and rocks in rainforests.
It can also be found in other regions, such as Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Asia.
Monstera Borsigiana Care Needs
To ensure your Monstera Borsigiana is happy and healthy, understand its basic care needs. We have outlined the most important needs below:
Lighting
When it comes to lighting needs for a Monstera Borsigiana, first understand the natural habitat of this rainforest plant.
Like all monstera plants native to the rainforest, they do not take well to intense direct sunlight, instead preferring to climb with their aerial roots in pursuit of more filtered light.
This said, when it comes to the best kind of lights for a Monstera Borsigiana, look for bright indirect light sources that don’t overpower the delicate foliage.
While 8-10 hours per day is generally considered ideal lighting exposure for Monstera Borsigianas, if you’re unable to provide these conditions, an LED grow light can be used as an alternative solution.
Keeping your plant exposed to 10-12 hours daily. When creating their living environment, make sure that your Monstera Borsigiana is placed in a warm spot exposed to indirect and slightly filtered light.
Avoid direct sunlight as this can cause ugly sunburn spots or blemishes on the foliage that won’t recover and full shade when planting.
This will prevent your plant from spreading its roots and growing to its best potential.
How to maximize light exposure?
- Rotate every fortnight: Make sure to rotate your Monstera Borsigiana every fortnight so that it is getting exposed to light from all angles.
- Cover the window with a light fabric: Use a light fabric such as cheesecloth or sheer curtains to filter the sun’s rays and prevent direct sunlight from hitting your Monstera Borsigiana.
- Find a well-lit spot: Place your Monstera Borsigiana near a patio, doorway, or window where it can get plenty of natural light.
- Position accordingly: Place your Monstera Borsigiana 4-5 feet from south-facing windows or east/west-facing windows to get the best morning and afternoon sun.
Watering
Watering a Monstera Borsigiana is vital to its health and growth, but there are some areas of discretion that require attentive observation. When it comes to watering your Monstera Borsigiana.
The general rule of thumb is to wait until the top 2 inches of soil are dry before watering again. This can usually be determined by using a moisture meter.
A reading of 3 on the moisture meter indicates that the soil is dry and needs water.
To maintain optimal growth and health, it’s best to water your plant once weekly during active growing seasons, such as summer or spring, and occasionally water once every 1-2 weeks in winter when growth slows or is dormant.
Depending on factors such as temperature and light exposure, the ideal amount of water will vary.
However, note that you should saturate the entire soil until it’s completely saturated with either rainwater or distilled water at room temperature.
With this list of watering requirements in mind, caring for a Monstera Borsigiana should be an attainable and enjoyable adventure.
Signs of underwatering
Underwatering a Monstera Borsigiana is one of the most common mistakes made when caring for an indoor plant.
To avoid this, it’s important to know what signs indicate that your plant is underwatered. These signs include:
- Leaf curling or drooping: When a Monstera Borsigiana is underwatered, its leaves will start to curl and droop due to lack of hydration.
- Wilting: Another sign of underwatering is when your Monstera Borsigiana starts to wilt. This happens due to a lack of moisture in the soil, making it difficult for the plant to retain water.
- Brown leaf tips: Lastly, when a Monstera Borsigiana is not getting enough water, the tips of its leaves will start to turn brown. This is due to dehydration and lack of hydration in the soil.
Signs of overwatering
On the other hand, overwatering your Monstera Borsigiana is just as detrimental to its health as underwatering. To ensure that you are not over-watering your plant, look out for these signs:
- Yellow leaves: One of the tell-tale signs of overwatering is yellowing leaves, as the plant is not receiving the oxygen it needs to thrive.
- Root rot: Another sign of overwatering is when the roots start to rot due to excess moisture. This can be prevented by keeping an eye on soil moisture and making sure that your Monstera Borsigiana is not being watered more than necessary.
- Mushy leaves: Mushy leaves are another sign that your plant is getting too much water. This is because the leaves are not able to dry out properly, causing them to become mushy and/or fall off.
Temperature
Monstera Borsigia plants are native to tropical climates, with moderate-high humidities and minimum temperatures of 64.4°F.
While recreating the same environment is not necessary to keep these plants thriving indoors, monitor what temperature they experience.
The recommended temperature range for Monstera Borsigia lies between 65-85℉ (18-29 degrees celsius).
However, if the temperature dips below 55°F (13 degrees Celsius), this can lead to slow growth rates and even shock or death of the plant if it falls below 50°F (10 degrees Celsius).
On the other hand, higher temperatures over 90°F can cause transpiration that leads to dry out of stems and leaves due to excessive moisture loss.
Much like other plants, there are several factors that affect the temperature in which your Monstera should live such as changing seasons or using a grow light in the winter months.
Tips for maintaining an optimal temperature
- Find a spot in your home that is out of direct sunlight, as this can cause too much heat and damage the plant.
- If you are using a grow light, make sure to place it at least 12 inches away from the Monstera Borsigia’s leaves.
- Close any windows near the plant to avoid drafts and temperature fluctuations.
- Make sure the plant is not too close to any heating or cooling vents.
- Place a humidity tray underneath the pot (with gravel, stones, and water) as this helps maintain an optimum level of humidity for your Monstera Borsigia.
Signs of unfavorable temperatures
Unfavorable temperatures can cause a lot of stress on your Monstera Borsigia and lead to dangerous health risks. Here are some signs that the temperature may be too cold or too hot:
Signs your Monstera Borsigia environment may be too cold:
- Brown spots on the leaves
- Yellowing of the leaves
- Wilting of the plant
- Slow growth rate
Signs your Monstera Borsigiana temperature may be too high:
- Crispy, dry leaves
- Browning of the edges or tips of the leaves
- Wilting of the plant
- Drooping of the leaves
Humidity
Maintaining the perfect humidity level needs for your Monstera Borsigiana is easier than you’d expect.
Generally, most households located in warmer climates will have medium to high enough humidity levels ranging from 60-80%.
However, low or very high humidity can certainly be damaging to the plant, so keep an eye on your home’s air quality.
One way of doing so is by using a hygrometer which can easily provide a reading of the exact level of moisture in the air.
Note that during winter, dry areas may suffer due to heaters being turned on. This strips moisture away and necessitates another way of bringing humidity back into the home environment.
How to ensure the right humidity level?
To make sure that you’re meeting the humidity needs of your Monstera Borsigiana, list a few key things you need to do.
- Primarily, group plants together; this helps them boost their own humidity.
- Also, be sure to measure and monitor the humidity in the area where the plant is located with a hygrometer. This is essential for knowing for certain that the correct humidity level is being maintained.
- Furthermore, if your home or environment does not have enough moisture in it, consider using a humidifier and misting the leaves with water from time to time using a fine-mist mister.
- Lastly, set up a pebble tray filled with water near your Monstera Borsigiana. As the water evaporates from the tray, it acquires extra moisture in its surroundings and can help ensure that you are meeting its ideal humidity level.
Low humidity signs
- Dry soil
- Wilting of leaves
- Browning of the edges or tips of the leaves
High humidity signs
- Yellow spots on the leaves
- Leaves turning yellow and dropping off
- Mold or fungus growing on the soil
Position
When deciding where to position your Monstera Borsigiana, take into account the size of the plant and the amount of space you have available.
The ideal location is near an east-facing window. This provides indirect light which is perfect for the Monstera Borsigiana.
To maximize energy flow and improve chances of success, apply Feng Shui principles when positioning the plant.
Additionally, consider using sheer curtains or fabric to filter light for south or west-facing windows.
As for north-facing windows, although these may not provide enough light, they are worth a try.
Finally, be aware that mature Monstera Borsigianas could reach up to ceiling heights or taller with leaves measuring 3 feet in length.
In consideration of this, place at least 2-4 feet away from direct light sources for optimal results.
Where not to place Monstera Borsigiana in the home
Avoid positioning your Monstera Borsigiana near sources of direct heat, such as fireplaces and radiators. In addition, try to keep the plant away from cold drafts from windows or doors.
Furthermore, avoid placing in dark spots without any light. This will stunt growth and hinder the development of beautiful foliage.
Lastly, do not place next to plants that require high light levels, as this may cause the Monstera Borsigiana to become shaded and compete for resources.
Where to place Monstera Borsigiana outdoors
If grown outdoors in mild climates, Monstera Borsigiana will do best in semi-shade or dappled sunlight. Avoid exposure to full sun since this can cause scorching of the leaves.
When positioning your plant outdoors, make sure it is out of reach from strong gusts of wind that could damage delicate foliage.
Additionally, make sure the soil drains well for optimal health and growth. Lastly, be aware that when grown in pots, Monstera Borsigiana can become root-bound if the soil is not changed regularly.
Fertilizer
When it comes to Monstera Borsigiana fertilization needs, provide a balanced list of macronutrients and micronutrients as well as secondary nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.
Due to the fact that potting soils are typically enriched with some level of nutrients that last anywhere from 6-12 months, you may need to replenish your Monstera Borsigiana with high-quality fertilizer during its active growth stage (summer and spring).
Doing this will ensure your plant is getting the vitamins it needs to stay healthy and live for a long time.
As for when not to fertilize your Monstera Borsigiana, do not fertilize when transplanting or repotting. Wait until at least one month has gone by first.
Additionally, don’t fertilize during periods of dormancy in late fall and winter when the plant can take a break.
What fertilizer is best for Monstera Borsigiana plant?
Liquid options are the best fertilizers for Monstera Borsigiana since they can be applied directly onto the soil.
Balanced Liquid NPK fertilizer of 20:20:20 ratio or 10-10-10 is the best choice as it ensures a steady supply of key nutrients.
Additionally, look for slow-release fertilizers that are specifically designed for Monstera plant and can be applied to the root system.
Alternatively, you may opt for an organic fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. All these are essential for healthy growth.
How to Apply Fertilizer
Applying fertilizer to your Monstera Borsigiana is a relatively simple task. Start by diluting the liquid fertilizer according to manufacturer instructions and then using a watering can to carefully sprinkle it onto the soil.
Once you’ve applied the fertilizer, be sure to water your plant lightly so that the nutrients can be absorbed.
Do this every couple of weeks in the growing season, making sure to not over-fertilize your plant as it may harm the foliage.
Pruning
Pruning the Monstera Borsigiana is a vital part of keeping it healthy and allowing it to thrive.
Pruning is necessary for trimming older foliage and managing the size of your Monstera, but it can also help prevent potential infections such as stem rot.
The best time to prune this plant is in early spring because it’s preparing to grow at its peak rate and will recover faster from the process.
It’s important to avoid pruning during periods of dormancy, especially during winter since these times usually have limited sunlight that hinders the plant’s ability to generate glucose which is necessary for growth and recovery.
Tools needed for pruning
- A sharp pair of gardening scissors
- Protective gloves
- A clean cloth
- Cleaning Solution
Pruning Steps:
- To start, it’s essential to gather all the tools you’ll need, which should include gloves as monstera sap can cause skin irritation.
- Additionally, make sure to sterilize your cutting tools with alcohol or boiling water in order to prevent bacteria from being introduced into the plant.
- You can cut old leaves at any time of the year, though you will want to be especially vigilant and trim any diseased leaves immediately.
- When deciding which stem to prune, there are several factors to consider in order to control size and shape- including when the plant is outgrowing its pot and needs approximately ⅓ of their roots trimmed.
- Furthermore, trim back any unsightly aerial roots as desired.
- Last but not least, for propagation purposes you’ll need to cut below a node on the stem in order for it to take root.
- Once you’ve made the cuts, use a cloth with a cleaning solution to gently wipe away any sap or debris. This will prevent bacterial growth and help your plant heal more quickly.
Potting & Repotting
Repotting a Monstera Borsigiana can be incredibly important to its growth.
Not only does this allow the roots to expand and explore their new environment, but it also refreshes the potting mix so that the nutrients can better reach the Monstera’s roots.
When determining when to repot, young plants may need to be done annually whereas mature plants can typically go two or up three years without needing another repotting.
Signs that your plant needs repotting can range from growing out of its container and creating drainage holes as well as list-like signs such as the appearance of unhealthy foliage or discolored stems.
It’s best practice to err on doing a repot early rather than waiting until your Monstera is in an unhealthy state due to a lack of proper potting conditions.
How to Pot & Repot Monstera Borsigiana Step by Step
Tools and supplies needed
- Pot
- Garden Trowel
- Potting soil
- Pruning Shears
- Plant support (coco coir or moss pole)
- Watering Can
Steps to repot:
- First, pick the best time. Early Spring is ideal for repotting.
- After that, choose a new pot that has drainage holes and is larger than the existing one. Terracotta pots are a great option, but there are other alternatives too.
- When you have your container, fill it 1/4 – 1/3 with potting soil before carefully removing the plant from its old container and trimming some of its roots.
- You’ll then want to replant into the new pot and hydrate it – but don’t fertilize in the first month.
- Finally, you’ll want to give your Monstera a support structure like a moss pole or coco coir to help it climb.
Soil Drainage and Aeration
Soil drainage is important for the health of your plant so that the roots do not stay waterlogged.
Monsteras require soil that drains quickly, which is why it’s best to use a potting mix specifically designed for house plants.
When potting your Monstera, mix in some perlite or pumice to help with drainage and aeration. This helps to ensure that water and air can flow freely through the soil and reach the roots.
Ideal Soil Mixture for Monstera Borsigiana
Well-draining soil is essential for Monstera care. A good potting mix should contain organic matter, light, soil, and not be densely packed.
A good soil mix should also have enough air pockets to ensure adequate aeration for the roots.
A mixture of half potting soil and half perlite is an ideal combination for Monstera Borsigiana, as it allows plenty of drainage while still providing your plant with the nutrients it needs.
Soil pH for Monstera Borsigiana
The pH of the soil affects the availability of nutrients to your plant. For most Monsteras, an ideal pH range is between 5.5 and 7.
If the soil is too acidic or alkaline, you can adjust it by adding lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.
Best commercial potting mix for Monstera Borsigiana here are some top recommendations:
- Premium Monstera Potting Soil – this is a specially formulated soil mix designed to give your Monstera all the nutrients it needs, while also providing excellent drainage and aeration.
- Sun Gro Horticulture Black Gold 1310102 8-Quart All Purpose Potting Mix. This is a great all-purpose mix that contains perlite, sphagnum peat moss, and other organic matter to help your Monstera flourish.
Toxicity of Monstera Borsigiana
Monsteras are toxic to humans, cats, and dogs if ingested. The sap from the leaves and stems can cause irritation to your skin and eyes, so it’s important to take care when handling the plant.
Additionally, make sure that children and pets are kept away from the plant to avoid any accidental ingestion or contact with the sap.
The signs and symptoms of toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. what’s the treatment?
If your pet or child has ingested the plant, start by cleaning the affected area with water and soap.
If the symptoms of toxicity persist, contact your vet or doctor immediately for further advice and treatment.
Common Problems with Monstera Borsigiana
Monsteras are generally quite hardy plants. However, there are a few common problems that you might encounter when caring for them.
- Leaf Yellowing – this can be caused by over- or underwatering, not enough light, or a nutrient deficiency.
- Root Rot – this is caused by poor drainage or overwatering. If you notice that your plant’s roots are starting to rot, take it out of its pot and inspect the roots. Remove any rotten ones before repotting in fresh soil.
- Pest Infestations – Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can all infest Monsteras. To get rid of them, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the pests. If this doesn’t work, try using an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.
- Diseases – Monsteras are susceptible to bacterial and fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and anthracnose. It’s important to keep your plant in a well-ventilated area to prevent the spread of disease. If you notice any signs of infection, remove the affected leaves and treat them with a fungicide.
Suggested Uses of Monstera Borsigiana
Monstera Borsigiana can be used as a houseplant, in mixed containers, or in hanging baskets.
It’s an excellent choice for beginners because of its low maintenance requirements and attractive foliage.
This plant is also great for adding texture and height to any garden setting. Additionally, it can make a great addition to your terrace or balcony garden.
With its showy foliage, you can easily create a green wall that will bring life and color to your outdoor space.
Things to Avoid When Caring for Monstera Borsigiana
There are a few things you should avoid when caring for your Monstera Borsigiana:
- Direct sunlight – Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of your plant, so make sure to provide it with lots of indirect light.
- Overwatering – Monsteras don’t like to be overwatered, so always check the soil before watering and allow the top layer to dry out between waterings.
- Too much fertilizer – too much fertilizer can burn your plant’s roots, so be sure to use a balanced fertilizer and dilute as directed.
- Repotting too often – Monsteras don’t like to be repotted too often, so only do it when absolutely necessary.
- Pruning incorrectly – pruning should never be done without first understanding the proper techniques, as incorrect pruning can damage the plant.
- Not enough humidity – Monsteras don’t like dry air, so make sure to provide them with plenty of humidity. Use a humidifier in especially dry climates or rooms.
Conclusion
Monstera Borsigiana is a tropical houseplant that is easy to care for and can add a unique touch to any indoor or outdoor setting.
While this plant does require some special attention, it’s worth the effort. Your Monstera will reward you with its vibrant foliage and dramatic texture.
With the right soil mix, light, humidity, and watering schedule, your Monstera can thrive for years to come.
Just remember to check for pests and diseases regularly, and take action quickly if you notice any signs of trouble.
With a little bit of TLC, your Monstera is sure to be the highlight of your home or garden.
Note: Do not confuse the name Monstera deliciosa Borsigiana with Monstera deliciosa; there is a difference. Here’s is a comparative guide between Monstera deliciosa Borsigiana and Monstera deliciosa.
