Monstera Dubia Large: The Ultimate Guide

Oleh Jodi Nicolas June 19, 2023 Post a Comment

If you've been looking for a statement plant that's sure to make heads turn, the Monstera Dubia Large is the one for you. Not only is it beautiful and unique, but it's also quite easy to care for. In this guide, we'll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about this magnificent plant.

The Monstera Dubia Large, also known as the Shingle Plant, is a tropical plant native to Central and South America. It's part of the Araceae family, which includes other popular houseplants such as the Monstera Deliciosa and the Philodendron. The Monstera Dubia Large is a climbing plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall with proper care, making it an excellent choice for large spaces.

This plant is known for its unique foliage, which consists of flat, leathery leaves that overlap each other like shingles on a roof. The leaves are a bright green color with a glossy finish, and they can reach up to 8 inches long and 6 inches wide. The Monstera Dubia Large produces small white flowers that are surrounded by a white spathe, which eventually develops into a bright red fruit that looks like a miniature pineapple.

Now that we have an idea of what the Monstera Dubia Large is all about, let's dive into the details.

Light Requirements

The Monstera Dubia Large requires bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can damage its delicate leaves, so it's best to place it near a window that doesn't get direct sunlight or use a sheer curtain to filter the light. If you notice that your plant isn't growing as quickly as you'd like, try moving it to a brighter location.

Watering

Like most tropical plants, the Monstera Dubia Large prefers to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure to use well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Overwatering can lead to yellow leaves or fungal diseases, so it's important to strike a balance.

Humidity

The Monstera Dubia Large thrives in high humidity environments, which is why it's often found in rainforests. To replicate this environment at home, you can use a humidifier or place a tray of water near your plant to increase the moisture levels. Misting your plant with a spray bottle can also help, but make sure not to get water on the leaves as this can cause damage.

Soil Requirements

The Monstera Dubia Large prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is an excellent choice. You can also add some orchid bark or charcoal to improve drainage and prevent soil compaction.

Fertilizer

During the growing season (spring and summer), you can fertilize your Monstera Dubia Large once a month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer according to the instructions on the package to avoid over-fertilizing. During the winter months, you can reduce the frequency or stop fertilizing altogether.

Propagation

The Monstera Dubia Large can be propagated through stem cuttings. Simply take a stem cutting with at least two nodes (where the leaves attach to the stem), remove the bottom leaves, and place it in a container of moist soil. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light until the cutting develops roots and new growth.

Pests and Diseases

Like all plants, the Monstera Dubia Large is susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation.

Toxicity

While the Monstera Dubia Large is not toxic to humans, it can be toxic to pets if ingested. Make sure to keep it out of reach of cats and dogs, or consider choosing a pet-friendly plant instead.

Pruning

Pruning your Monstera Dubia Large can help promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. You can pinch back the tips of new growth to encourage branching, or prune back older stems to promote new growth from the base. Make sure to use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.

Repotting

The Monstera Dubia Large doesn't need to be repotted frequently, but you should do so when you notice that the roots are ing to become overcrowded. Choose a pot that's only slightly bigger than the current one, and make sure to use fresh soil. Repotting in the spring is best, as this is when the plant is actively growing.

Training

The Monstera Dubia Large is a climbing plant, which means it will naturally want to climb up any nearby support. You can train it to grow in a certain direction by attaching it to a moss pole or trellis with soft ties or twine. This will also help prevent the leaves from overlapping too much and blocking light.

Common Issues

Some common issues that Monstera Dubia Large owners face include yellowing leaves, brown spots on leaves, and slow growth. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper watering, insufficient light, or pests and diseases. By following the care tips outlined above and monitoring your plant closely, you can keep it healthy and thriving.

Where to Buy

The Monstera Dubia Large is not as widely available as some other houseplants, but you may be able to find it at specialty nurseries or online retailers. Keep in mind that it may be more expensive than other plants due to its rarity.

The Monstera Dubia Large is a beautiful and unique houseplant that's sure to make a statement in any room. With proper care, it can grow up to 10 feet tall and produce stunning foliage that looks like shingles on a roof. By following the care tips outlined in this guide, you can help your Monstera Dubia Large thrive for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Monstera Dubia Large hard to care for?

A: While the Monstera Dubia Large does require specific care conditions, it's not necessarily difficult to care for. As long as you provide bright, indirect light, keep the soil consistently moist, and maintain high humidity levels, your plant should thrive.

Q: How often should I water my Monstera Dubia Large?

A: Water your Monstera Dubia Large when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This will likely be every 7-10 days, but it can vary depending on the temperature and humidity levels in your home.

Q: Can I propagate my Monstera Dubia Large in water?

A: Yes, you can propagate your Monstera Dubia Large in water instead of soil. Simply place the stem cutting in a container of water and change the water every few days. Once the cutting develops roots, you can transfer it to soil.

Q: What should I do if my Monstera Dubia Large is growing too tall?

A: If your Monstera Dubia Large is getting too tall, you can prune back the stems to promote bushier growth. You can also attach it to a moss pole or trellis to encourage it to grow in a certain direction.

Q: Does the Monstera Dubia Large need fertilizing?

A: Yes, you should fertilize your Monstera Dubia Large once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer according to the instructions on the package.

Q: Should I mist my Monstera Dubia Large?

A: Misting your Monstera Dubia Large with a spray bottle can help increase humidity levels, but make sure not to get water on the leaves as this can cause damage. A better option is to use a humidifier or place a tray of water near your plant.

Q: Why are the leaves on my Monstera Dubia Large turning yellow?

A: Yellowing leaves on a Monstera Dubia Large can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. Try to identify the underlying issue and adjust your care routine accordingly.

Q: Can I keep my Monstera Dubia Large outdoors?

A: The Monstera Dubia Large is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid environments. It's not suitable for outdoor planting in most regions, but you may be able to keep it on a covered patio or balcony if the conditions are right.

Q: Can I train my Monstera Dubia Large to climb a wall?

A: Yes, you can train your Monstera Dubia Large to climb a wall by attaching it to a support structure with soft ties or twine. Make sure to choose a support that's strong enough to hold the weight of the plant.

Q: Will my Monstera Dubia Large produce fruit?

A: Yes, the Monstera Dubia Large produces a bright red fruit that looks like a miniature pineapple. However, it can take several years for the plant to mature enough to produce fruit.

Q: Is the Monstera Dubia Large pet-friendly?

A: While the Monstera Dubia Large is not toxic to humans, it can be toxic to pets if ingested. Make sure to keep it out of reach of cats and dogs, or consider choosing a pet-friendly plant instead.