Interested to learn more about this distinctive Monstera variety? You’re at the right place. Below, we will tell you everything there is to know about Monstera Peru.
This article will cover:
- Genus and Origin
- Common and Botanical Names
- Variegated Monstera Peru
- Care Guidelines, Common Problems (w/Solutions)
- Where to Buy and Price Range
- Plant’s Toxicity to People and Pets
- Plants Similar to Monstera Peru
- Frequently Asked Questions
Monstera Peru Genus
Found in the tropical regions of America, the Araceae is home to the monstera genus comprising more than sixty different species. The Latin term “Monstera,” which means “abnormal” or “large,” was the inspiration for the name of this particular family of plants that has enormous leaves with holes and patterns—a lovely addition to any household.
Common Names
When it comes to proper identification, the plant is often marketed via targeted ads and sold by many common names, including Peru plant, marble planet pothos, and Epipremnum pinnatum.
However, you should note that these names are not scientifically accepted.
Read Also: Different Monstera Plants
Botanical Names
The official scientific name for a specific plant species is its botanical name, which adheres to the rules of the botanical nomenclature system outlined in the International Code of Nomenclature for fungi, algae, and plants (ICN).
When it comes to the botanical name of Monstera Peru, it is mainly referred to as Monstera karstenianum or Monstera sp. Peru.
Origin of Monstera Peru
Due to the ambiguity surrounding Monstera Peru’s name, it might be difficult to trace its origins. However, many individuals believe that this tropical plant originates from the regions of Central America and Southern Mexico.
On top of that, the name “Peru” and the plant’s tropical traits also hint at its origin in the Western Hemisphere (North and South America).
Variegated Monstera Peru
Monstera Peru has a variegated variety like other Monstera plants but doesn’t have a specific name. This variegated Monstera is a mutant delusion, the same as all of the other variegated Monsteras (except for ‘Thai Constellation’), which means that the genesis of the variegation was a spontaneous cellular mutation (any change in the DNA sequence of a cell).
Monstera Peru Care Guidelines
Native to the tropical rainforests of Central America and Southern Mexico, Monstera Peru is a remarkably low-maintenance houseplant that performs well in various interior settings with less light and water, unlike other species in the Monstera genus.
Since Peru is recognized for being slow-growing, they will not overwhelm the growing area anytime soon (we’re looking at you, Monstera deliciosa).
However, you should keep a few critical care distinctions in mind.
Light
Surprisingly, Monstera Peru flourishes in low light conditions when kept indoors. These understory plants thrive well when placed by a north-facing window with several hours of indirect, bright light.
However, you should keep them away from areas that receive direct sunlight since Peru’s fenestrated leaves may quickly become sunburned and scorched.
Watering
When it comes to watering Monstera Peru, give it enough time to dry completely between watering sessions since the thick leaves make this monstera species more drought resistant than many of its relatives.
Another thing to remember is this rare plant should not be allowed to remain in the same wet soil for long (watering the plant once or twice a week is a good frequency) due to its susceptibility to root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Monstera Peru is indigenous to the tropical areas and can only live in warm and humid conditions.
Thus, maintaining temperatures between 60 and 85 ℉ and choosing a space that is already naturally humid (the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room) is highly recommended.
You can also place a pebble tray or humidifier close by the plant to raise the humidity in the area.
Fertilizer
During the spring and summer months, it is beneficial to provide Monstera Peru with consistent fertilization (once every 3-4weeks) using a gentle and well-balanced fertilizer specifically designed for tropical plants.
You should also refrain from over-fertilization since it may lead to a buildup of salt in the soil, causing the plant to wilt and die.
Soil Mix Recommendations
The Monstera Peru is an epiphyte that thrives best in rich, airy, and well-draining soil and benefits tremendously from having extra nutrients by combining coco coir, orchid bark, and perlite, each in the proportions of one part.
On the other hand, when it comes to the pH level required to grow Peru, the ideal range is between 5 and 7.5, slightly on the acidic side.
Pot Types and Sizes
When it comes to pot types, it’s best to grow Monstera Peru in a container with a drainage hole. More specifically, a large-sized terrestrial pot with moisture retention is all you need. The appropriate Monstera pot size selection is the second essential factor to consider. Start with a 6-inch pot if you are transplanting seedlings or have recently propagated them.
Repotting
If you see the roots of Albo growing through the drainage holes, repot it immediately. Due to the sluggish growth rate, we suggest repotting Peru into one size bigger pot every 2-3 years.
Additionally, to give your Peru a nutrient boost while repotting, combine parts of perlite, fresh garden soil, peat moss, coco coir, and organic materials (OM), and you’re good to go.
Ideal Growing Zones
Most drought-tolerant species, including Peru, can survive in USDA Zone 10 and do well in warm and humid conditions year-round.
This houseplant collection cannot resist temperatures below freezing since they are not frost-hardy.
Therefore, only individuals living in zones with enough sunlight can cultivate the Monstera Peru all year-round.
Propagation
The best way to grow more of these beautiful Monstera species is propagation, quite similar to breeding standard Monstera Deliciosa. However, the process takes much more time. Thus, you must be patient.
Before you begin, it is essential to remember that the only way to grow them is by stem cutting or water propagation. Therefore, the plant should have at least one node.
- Use a sharp knife to cut a 3-inch piece from the tip of a healthy plant stem.
- Ensure you get the nodes and the aerial roots during stem cutting.
- Remove the lower leaves, keeping at least 3-4 leaves on the upper side of the cutting.
- Plant the cutting 2-3 inches deep in a pot with well-draining soil.
- Keep the pot in bright indirect light and water it every two weeks.
- Wait about 3-4 weeks to see the nodes thriving with healthy leaves.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
In general, Monstera Peru demands little attention over other drought-tolerant species; however, growing these tropical plants indoors might present you with the following challenges. Don’t worry; just like every problem, they have an easy solution.
Mealybugs, scale bugs, aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, leafminers, and fungus gnats are among the pests that cause trouble to most Monstera varieties, including Karstenianum.
As soon as you see them, be sure to spray the leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Getting rid of them may take around three to four weeks. Therefore, consistency is key.
Yellowing leaves and drooping leaves are other typical issues, mostly caused by an imbalance in the plant’s water supply.
Simply put, both overwatering and underwatering can cause the leaves to curl. Overwatering mostly causes the leaves to turn yellow or brown first.
Foliage & Leaf Shapes
Monstera Peru is a rare plant with the appearance of a Monstera but behaves more like a succulent. The leaves are lustrous, deep green, and leathery to the touch, featuring a beautiful, dark green veining.
When matured, the plant gets deeper and darker veins; however, unlike Adansonii and Deliciosa, this species’ leaves don’t have any fenestrations (splits) or holes.
Growth and Maturation
When given the proper attention and growing circumstances, a mature Monstera Peru plant has the potential to reach a height of 10 feet. Unlike other plants, the big, leathery leaves with darker veins and silvery sheen are spaced around 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) apart, while matured Monstera Peru plant leaves may grow as long as 9 centimeters (about 3.5 inches).
Where to Buy & Price
Are you ready to add the fantastic Monstera Karstenianum to your indoor jungle? You can buy it from NSE Tropicals, Logee’s, Steve’s Leaves, The Sill, Canopy Plant Co., Bloomscape, Rare Plant Fairy, and Rooted.
If you prefer homegrown varieties, you can try Etsy to buy Monstera Peru plant or other Monstera varieties. Monstera Karstenianum can cost anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred, depending on whether you’re buying stem cuttings with several leaf nodes or a mature plant. However, some Peru varieties can set you back several thousand dollars depending on rarity.
Toxicity to People & Pets
Even though the Monstera Karstenianum is undeniably a visual treat, it is essential to exercise caution around this plant since it is often considered poisonous/toxic to both pets and humans.
The toxicity experienced is proportional to the quantity consumed; however, aroids like this tend to contain calcium oxalates and oxalic acid, causing problems in the long term.
- In Humans: Toxic properties are present in every component of the plant, including the leaves, shallow roots, and Monstera Peru flower. However, Ingestion of large quantities of most Monsteras’ insoluble sharp oxalate crystals, also known as raphides, can cause severe irritation and a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and tongue.
- In Pets: Since pets have a habit of chewing on whatever they can get their teeth on, keeping Monstera Peru out of their reach is essential. Some potential toxicity symptoms include oral irritation and blisters, frequent drooling, and trouble swallowing. Contact a vet immediately if you see your four-legged companion struggling with these symptoms.
Similar Plants
Being a member of the Monstera genus, this tropical plant is connected to various well-known houseplants.
Monstera Peru has lance-shaped leaves, furrowed bubble-like texture, and no fenestrations, which makes it similar to some Monstera Deliciosa species, including Monstera Pinnatipartita, Monstera Adansonii, Monstera Siltepecana, and Monstera Standleyana.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can You Grow Monstera Peru From Seeds?
Cuttings in water or soil are the best way to propagate Monstera Peru since finding seeds is incredibly difficult.
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Does Monstera Peru Grow Flowers?
It is quite unlikely for a Monstera Peru to blossom if kept indoors; thus, don’t be alarmed if you do not notice any flowers on your Peru since this is completely normal.
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How Much Light Does Monstera Peru Need in the Growing Season?
Monstera Peru demands moderate light conditions when kept indoors. However, this plant thrives well when placed by a north-facing window with several hours of bright, indirect light.
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Is Monstera Peru Rare?
Peru is a member of the Aroid family that is both very rare and popular for being a fast grower. You can expect a more substantial and robust growth when cultivated on a totem.
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Is Monstera Peru Okay in Direct Sunlight?
When it comes to direct sunlight, Peru can endure it, but their development may be stunned as a result. A north-facing window with bright, indirect light is ideal for them.
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Is Monstera Peru a Climbing Plant?
Yes, Monstera Peru is a climber, so if you want to stimulate its development, you can provide it with support in the form of a moss pole, wet stick, plant supporters, or bamboo stakes.
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What is the Ideal Temperature and Humidity Level for Peru?
Peru is indigenous to the tropical areas and can only live in warm and humid conditions; thus, maintaining temperatures between 60 and 85 ℉ and humidity levels of at least 60% is ideal.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
