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What is a Monstera Siltepecana?
A young Monstera Siltepecana flaunts lanced-shaped full leaves whereas a mature plant will have the classic Monstera splits or fenestrations.
This Monstera grows the strongest vines in the Monstera genus. The vining foliage of this plant can climb and trail, however, most gardeners prefer growing it as a climber.
This plant has many names in the plant world; the common ones are Silver Monstera, Hurricane Plant, Swiss Cheese Plant, and Mexican Breadfruit.
It is also mislabeled as Philodendron Siltepecana but it does not belong to the Philodendron genus.
This small-leafed Monstera is an epiphytic creeper and grows natively in South and Central America.
What makes this plant more interesting is the fact that the juvenile version of this plant is different from the mature version, making it a 2-in-1 plant.
The Monstera Siltepecana leaves are in hues of silver and green with dark green veins.
The juvenile form has a bluish tint or silver markings on the leaves which fades as the plant matures.
The colored leaves of this plant resemble the foliage of the Cebu Blue Pothos.
Mature leaves are 5 inches long and the overall plant size is usually between 20 to 30 inches.
If you let the plant grow in an open space mature Monstera Siltepecana can reach a height of 8 feet and spread up to 3 feet.
These flowering plants produce inflorescence-type flowers that feature a spadix and spathe but this is rare when grown as an indoor plant.
The versatile Siltepecana Plant thrives in a terrarium, hanging basket, or other indoor settings but you can also grow it in an outdoor setting in USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11.
Follow the Monstera Siltepecana care instructions below to keep the Monstera happy.
How to Care for a Monstera Siltepecana
Temperature and Humidty
Monstera plants prefer to grow in a temperature range closer to their natural environment.
So, as an indoor houseplant, Monstera Siltepecana will thrive in temperatures ranging from 55 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (12 to 32 degrees Celsius). While the humidity should be around 60% relative humidity.
Light
Like other varieties, this plant also loves growing under bright, indirect light because it grows under the forest tree canopy.
Your plant should be protected from midday sun at any cost if you want the beautiful silver-green color to last.
You can leave it in the direct sunlight for an hour or two because too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves.
This plant is not very particular about its light requirement meaning it will survive in low light levels or partial shade.
But this comprises the growth rate and your plant will probably not grow to the fullest.
Watering
Watering Monstera Siltepecana is a critical requirement to successfully grow these tropical plants indoors.
The Monstera Siltepecana should be watered regularly and evenly. You need to find a balance between under and overwatering because it will not appreciate sitting in soggy soil.
The most common sign of overwatering for this plant is yellow leaves so watch out for that.
It requires more moisture when grown in bright sunlight or at high temperatures.
Therefore, it’s best to come up with a schedule based on the actual growing environment of your plant.
Always use pots with drainage holes for indoor plants because they will ensure no excess water remains in the soil that might lead to root rot.
Even when growing Monstera Siltepecana in a terrarium, drainage layers are a must.
Not good at remembering to water your plants? You should get this self-watering container. We use these pots for almost all our houseplants. You won’t ever need to worry about watering again!
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Soil and Fertilizer
Choose a light and airy potting mix to ensure drainage, air circulation, and water retention.
Use orchid bark and coco coir with regular potting soil to create a suitable potting mix or use any other well-draining soil mix.
Bear in mind that the juvenile Monstera has a terrestrial growth habit but as it matures it becomes an epiphyte meaning it requires support to grow the best.
You can use a sphagnum moss pole or any other vertical support like a large wooden branch.
Plant this Monstera Plant in a rich potting mix, however; you will have to revive the nutrients in the soil every few months using a liquid fertilizer.
You should fertilize the Monstera Siltepecana once a month in the growing season with fertilizer mixed at half strength.
Common Pests
The most common issue growers have with this plant is pest invasions.
Brown tips, curled leaves, or yellowing leaves usually indicate water stress, but they can also be a result of pest infection.
This Monstera is prone to pest infestations, including fungus gnats, spider mites, scales, aphids, and mealybugs.
All of them can be treated using simple natural remedies. In the event of infection, wash the plant with a strong stream of water.
Next, use a diluted soap or rubbing alcohol solution. Most gardeners prefer neem oil as it’s natural and easy to use on almost any plant.
Repeat the treatment every week or two to completely remove the adults and pest eggs.
If you are looking for a Neem oil spray, try this particular Neem oil spray. We’ve used it on our pest infestations and it simply works.
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- USE ON: For use on Roses, Flowers, Fruits and Vegetables and Shrubs
Repotting
Repot the Monstera Siltepecana plant when it becomes root-bound. This is usually when the plant has stunted growth and has outgrown the current pot.
Another sign is the roots coming out of the bottom holes. Regardless of the growth stage, you need to refresh the potting medium every year.
Propagation
This Monstera species is best propagated using the stem cutting method. Trim a 4–6-inch long stem right next to a leaf node.
The cutting should have at least one leaf attached. Let the cutting callous for a few hours and treat the lower end with a rooting hormone solution.
Plant the cutting in an aerated soil mixture in a small nursery pot and keep it there under the recommended temperature range.
The stem cutting also requires bright, indirect sunlight similar to the mother plant.
With the right balance of light, temperature, and water, the cutting will root in a few weeks and develop new leaves. The aerial roots on the cutting will also help in rooting.
Pruning
Pruning helps you get rid of damaged or diseased parts of your favorite plants. It will also help with size control. The best time to prune any Monstera variety, including Silver Monstera, is early spring.
If you do decide to prune your Silver Monstera plant, use these pruning garden shears. They are durable and not expensive. Plus, they are easy on the hands.
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FAQ
Is Monstera Siltepecana rare?
This Monstera variety is not rare however availability can differ depending on your location. This plant is common but it sells fast because of the unique foliage. You can buy Monstera Siltepecana from a garden shop or online store.
How do you care for Monstera Siltepecana?
Monstera Siltepecana care is straightforward because it has typical plant care requirements. You have to use airy soil that should be watered regularly without overwatering. Mature plants are suited for pots but juvenile versions can be kept in terrariums.
Does Silver Monstera like humidity?
This plant is not picky about humidity however as a tropical vining plant it needs at least 60% of humidity as a potted indoor or terrarium plant.
Are Monstera Siltepecana fast-growing plants?
This plant grows fast as a climbing variety. Other factors that contribute to the growth rate are light, temperature, and water. This Monstera Plant takes 2-3 years to reach maturity provided you maintain the ideal growing environment.
Is Monstera Siltepecana toxic to Pets?
Yes, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Monstera plants, including Monstera Siltepecana, are toxic to dogs and cats.
Symptoms can include oral irritation (mouth, tongue, and lips), excessive drooling, and vomiting.
Other Monstera Plants to Consider
There are many varieties of Monstera houseplants. If you are looking for another type of Monstera plant, check out our other related posts:
Conclusion
Monstera Siltepecana is a charming plant with its dual-colored leaves and grows well in any indoor setting if the temperature, water, and soil requirements are met.
This Silver Monstera makes an excellent terrarium plant as well but you will have to pair it with other varieties like the Silver Sword Philodendron.
References
Lindsey Hyland grew up in Arizona where she studied at the University of Arizona’s Controlled Environment Agriculture Center. She continued her gardening education by working on organic farms in both rural and urban settings. She started UrbanOrganicYield.com to share gardening tips and tactics. She’s happy to talk about succulents and houseplants or vegetables and herbs – or just about anything in a backyard garden or hydroponics garden.