Monstera Pinnatipartita is a rare climbing plant often sold under different names, most commonly as Monstera Siam. This blog highlights Monstera Pinnatipartita common names and care requirements.
Read on to discover:
- Is Monstera Pinnatipartita the same as Siam?
- Siam Origin
- Is Monstera Pinnatipartita the same as Monstera Peru?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Is Monstera Pinnatipartita the same as Monstera Siam?
Yes, both names are used interchangeably to identify the same plant. It is sometimes also labeled ‘Monstera Pinnatipartita Siam.’ However, Siam may be a different form or variety of Monstera Pinnatipartita or Monstera Deliciosa.
Siam Origin
Monstera Pinnatipartita Siam is a rare vine from the arum family, Araceae, – native to Central and South America. It originates from the wet tropical rainforests of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and even as far as Costa Rica. The most defining characteristic of Pinnatipartita is the deeply incised leaves that give it a lacy or fern-like look.
An important point feature of Pinnatipartita is that it’s juvenile and adult forms look completely different. If its juvenile and mature versions are kept side by side, you will likely think they are two completely different plant species. Juvenile Monstera Pinnatipartita features two-shaded, small, heart-shaped leaves with smooth and rounded margins. They don’t have any distinctive splits or “pinnate” lobes.
As the plant matures, the leaves become larger and greener, developing deep incisions to create the characteristic lace-like look of the plant. They also develop natural holes that further enhance the plant’s unique appearance.
This plant resembles many other Monstera species and varieties, including Monstera Peru (Karstenianum), Monstera Dubia, and Monstera Siltepecana. It also resembles some species from a separate genus, including Philodendron Silver Queen and the Split-Leaf Philodendron.
Scientists had to undergo a process of elimination before finally figuring out it was a different species than other similar-looking plants. It was then named after its pinnatifid leaves (leaves with incision-like holes).
Is Monstera Pinnatipartita the same as Monstera Peru?
No, Pinnatipartita is a different species from Monstera Karstenianum, popularly called Monstera Peru. However, it’s difficult to tell their juvenile versions apart. This is because both species have oval to elliptic, glossy, leathery leaves with light and dark green variegation when they are young.
But unlike Pinnatipartita, Peru does not develop pinnate lobes or leaf fenestrations as they mature. Instead, they grow wider and rounder with time.
You must observe the leaf’s surface closely to differentiate between younger versions of both plants. Both species have oval-shaped leaves when they are juvenile, but the surface of Peru’s leaves is flatter and bumpier than Pinnatipartita.
Moreover, Pinnatipartita has thicker stems than Monstera Peru. You can use these stem cuttings to propagate Monstera Pinnatipartita in soil or water.
Why is Pinnatipartita also known as Philodendron Silver Queen?
Monstera Pinnatipartita and Silver Queen are similar in appearance because they have leaves with prominent, deep lobes. However, their features differ in many ways.
While both plants have lobed leaves, Pinnatipartita leaves are more deeply incised, each lobe narrow and pointy. In contrast, Silver Queen’s leaves are more rounded – with shallower and broader lobes.
Moreover, Pinnatipartita leaves are deep green with a matte finish, while the Silver Queen’s leaves are glossy, silvery-green with more pronounced variegation.
What are Monstera Pinnatipartita Care Requirements?
Monstera Pinnatipartita care requirements are similar to those of any other tropical plant. Read on to learn how to keep this houseplant happy.
How Much Light Does Monstera Pinnatipartita Need?
Like other Monstera plants, Pinnatipartita has also evolved to grow under adequate sunlight filtered through the dense canopies in the rainforests. Its leaves can burn if exposed to direct sunlight.
You should put Pinnatipartita near a well-lit window with curtains or at any appropriately-shaded spot that receives lots of bright indirect light. Low light will cause the leaves to grow slower and leggier with lesser fenestrations.
Soil Type
The ideal soil mix for this plant is well-draining, aerated, and rich in organic matter.
The soil should not remain soaking wet but retain moisture for healthy growth. Excess water can lead to root rot.
You can get a potting mix for aroids containing ingredients like coco coir, sphagnum moss, perlite, peat moss, orchid bark, etc.
Watering Needs
As mentioned earlier, the key is to keep the soil moist but not too wet or soggy. Typically, this plant would need a watering session once every week during summer and spring. You can decrease the watering frequency in winter because the growth rate of plants slows down then.
The best way to judge if your Pinnatipartita needs a drink is to test with your thumb or a moisture meter to see if the top few inches of soil feel dry.
Your watering frequency should depend on temperature, light, soil, and season. Remember not to let the soil turn completely dry or overwater your plant to avoid root rot, yellow leaves, and stunted growth.
Temperature & Humidity
Although tropical plants typically thrive in warm temperatures, it may come as a surprise that Monstera Pinnatipartita can tolerate cooler conditions quite well.
While its optimal temperature range for growth is between 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit, this plant can survive in temperatures higher or lower than this range. But since it is not frost hardy, remember to bring your plant indoors if it’s kept outside and the temperature drops consistently.
Moreover, Monstera Pinnatipartita prefers moderate to high humidity levels. While it doesn’t mind average humidity levels, you must increase the humidity to see large, healthy growth.
There are numerous methods to do that: a humidifier, pebble tray, grouping plants together, or keeping them in a room with high humidity (kitchen, bathroom, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Monstera Pinnatipartita Grow Fast?
Pinnatipartita is a tropical, evergreen climbing hemi-epiphyte that grows rapidly. But how fast it grows can depend on numerous factors, like light, temperature, humidity, watering frequency, etc.
A moss pole can help your plant grow faster by providing climbing support and allowing the aerial roots to absorb extra nutrients. Rooting hormones may also help you accelerate growth.
Is Monstera Pinnatipartita Rare?
Yes, Monstera Pinnatipartita is considered a rare plant in the horticultural world. It is not as commonly found as some other Monstera or Philodendron species.
Its unique appearance with deeply-lobed, lacy leaves makes it highly sought after by plant collectors and enthusiasts.
You can buy Monstera Pinnatipartita at an online store or a local nursery offering rare indoor plants.
How Do You Care For the Siam plant?
Like other Monstera varieties, Monstera Pinnatipartita care requirements are also simple. It typically requires bright indirect sunlight, regular watering (once every week) during the growing season, monthly or semi-monthly fertilization, well-draining soil mixes, and high humidity to grow. You should also inspect it for insect attacks from time to time.
How is Pinnatipartita Different from Monstera Deliciosa, a.k.a, the Swiss Cheese Plant?
Pinnatipartita may look like Deliciosa but has smaller, deeply lobed leaves (divided into narrow finger-like segments). In contrast, Monstera Deliciosa has large, broad, heart-shaped leaves with prominent splits and holes.
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.
