Monstera obliqua

Easy to care for and yet exclusive: Monstera obliqua

The Monstera obliqua is one of the most fascinating and sought-after plants in the arum family (Araceae). With its heavily openworked, filigree leaves that look almost like a green lace pattern, it immediately attracts everyone’s attention. This unusual plant originally comes from the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where it grows as a climbing plant in a warm and humid environment.

In the terrarium the Monstera obliqua unfolds its full splendor as it finds constant conditions such as high humidity and an even temperature. With a size of usually 30 to 80 cm, it remains manageable and is ideal for medium-sized to large terrariums, where it not only creates a visual highlight but also adds a touch of rainforest atmosphere.

Its leaves are the trademark of this plant: they not only have the typical window-like holes, but also appear almost perforated, which gives the plant a particularly airy character. It is precisely this uniqueness that makes the Monstera obliqua a coveted collector’s item.

The care requirements are manageable as long as its natural needs are respected. It prefers a High humidity of around 70-90 % and temperatures between 22 and 28 °C. This makes it perfect for tropical terrariums, especially in combination with bromeliads, ferns and climbing plants. A permeable, loose substrate is important, which should always be slightly moist but never wet.

The lighting conditions also play a decisive role: the Monstera obliqua loves bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn its sensitive leaves, while too little light inhibits growth. In a terrarium, it can be ideally supported with a plant lamp – the following are recommended at least 1,500-2,000 lumens per square meter.

The Monstera obliqua is far more than just a plant – it is a living work of art. With it, you can bring a botanical rarity into your terrarium that will delight both lovers of rare plants and terrarium enthusiasts.