How to Grow and Care for Monstera Aureopinnata

The Monstera aureopinnata is a tropical plant native to the rainforests of Central and South America. This species is known for the transformation its leaves undergo from a juvenile to a mature state. As a young plant, its leaves are solid, but as it ages, it develops deep splits, or fenestrations, that give it a feather-like appearance. Its vining nature makes it a natural climber, often found scaling trees in its native habitat.

Monstera Aureopinnata Care

Light

Monstera aureopinnata requires bright, indirect light for healthy development. Placing the plant near an east-facing window is a good option for gentle morning sun. Direct, intense sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light will result in slower growth and may prevent the leaves from developing their deep splits.

Water

Water this plant thoroughly when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings to prevent oversaturation, which can lead to root rot. Underwatering can cause the leaves to become brown and crispy.

Soil

A well-draining soil mix is important for Monstera aureopinnata. The soil should be rich in organic matter to mimic the plant’s natural growing conditions in the rainforest. A chunky mix containing coco coir, coco chips, and perlite provides the necessary drainage and aeration for the roots. This soil composition helps prevent water from logging at the roots.

Temperature and Humidity

This Monstera thrives in warm and humid conditions, preferring temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (19 to 25 degrees Celsius). The plant is not cold-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius). High humidity of 60-80% is beneficial, so placing it near a humidifier or misting the leaves can promote growth.

Fertilizer

To support its growth during the spring and summer, regular fertilization is recommended. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, can be applied every month. During the fall and winter, when growth slows, fertilization can be reduced. Feeding the plant provides nutrients needed to produce its large, fenestrated leaves.

Climbing Support

As a natural climber, providing a support structure is beneficial for the Monstera aureopinnata’s maturation. A moss pole or trellis allows the plant to follow its climbing tendency. Supporting the plant encourages the development of larger and more split leaves, characteristic of its mature form. As the plant grows, its aerial roots will attach to the support.

Propagating Monstera Aureopinnata

Propagating Monstera aureopinnata is done through stem cuttings from a healthy parent plant. To begin, select a healthy vine and identify a node, a small brown bump on the stem where new growth originates. Using a clean, sharp knife or shears, make a cut just below the node, ensuring it is included with the cutting. A cutting can consist of a single leaf and node or a longer vine with multiple nodes.

Once taken, the cutting can be rooted in water or directly in soil. To root in water, place the cutting in a jar of lukewarm water with the node submerged, and change the water every few days to keep it fresh. After the roots have grown to be a couple of inches long, the cutting can be planted in a pot with a suitable soil mix.

Identifying Monstera Aureopinnata

Distinguishing Monstera aureopinnata from similar plants can be challenging. It is often compared to Monstera sierrana, which is classified as Monstera deliciosa var. sierrana. Mature M. sierrana leaves are smaller than a typical M. deliciosa and have deeper cuts, but M. aureopinnata is noted for its particularly slender, feather-like leaves as it matures.

Another plant sometimes confused with it is the Philodendron ‘Golden Dragon’. A primary difference lies in the petiole, the stalk that attaches the leaf to the stem. In Monsteras, the petiole has a geniculum, a knee-like bend that allows the leaf to orient itself toward light, which is absent in Philodendrons. The texture and overall growth pattern can also differ between the two.

The transformation from juvenile to mature foliage is a significant identifier for M. aureopinnata. As the plant is given the right conditions to climb, the leaves develop deep fenestrations that extend almost to the central rib of the leaf.

Common Problems

Yellowing leaves are a frequent issue, most often a sign of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. To resolve this, allow the top of the soil to dry out completely before watering and ensure the pot has adequate drainage. Underwatering can also cause yellow leaves.

Pests can also affect the plant’s health. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, which feed on the plant’s sap and cause discoloration. Spider mites create fine webbing, while mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses.

If pests are detected, they can be treated with a mild insecticidal soap or neem oil. Wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can help remove pests manually. Regularly inspecting the leaves allows for early detection and treatment.

Toxicity

Monstera aureopinnata is toxic to humans and pets if ingested. This is due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals within the plant’s cells. These needle-like crystals can cause irritation upon contact with the mouth and digestive tract.

If any part of the plant is chewed, symptoms can include oral irritation, swelling of the mouth and tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It is advisable to keep the plant out of reach of small children and pets.