Mini Monstera, Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma, Minima

Selling size: Single plant | 2.5-4″ Pot included | Secure Packing

The Mini Monstera, Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma, Minima is a popular houseplant due to its unique split leaves and relatively easy care. Despite its common name, it is not actually in the Monstera genus but shares a similar appearance. It has smaller leaves than Monstera deliciosa, but they bear its dramatic fenestration–the splits and holes in leaves–at an earlier age. It’s a climbing houseplant you can grow as a vine or trim back to keep it more full and bushy.

Here is a guide to keeping your Mini Monstera, Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma, Minima healthy and thriving:

Light

• Bright, indirect light is best. This plant thrives in a spot where it receives plenty of filtered sunlight.
• Avoid direct sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, leading to yellowing or brown spots.
• Can tolerate lower light, but growth will slow. In low-light conditions, the plant may become “leggy,” with smaller leaves and wider gaps between them. If you want faster growth and more splits in the leaves, provide more light.
• Rotate the plant. To ensure even growth, rotate the pot every few weeks so all sides receive adequate light.

Watering

• Water when the top inch or two of soil is dry. This is a crucial step to prevent root rot, which is a common problem for this plant.
• Be careful not to overwater. It’s better to slightly underwater than to overwater. Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering.
• Ensure proper drainage. Use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
• Watering frequency varies. In warmer months, you may need to water more frequently (e.g., once a week), while in the winter, the plant’s growth slows, and it will need less water.

Soil

• Use a well-draining, chunky potting mix. This is essential to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.
• A good mix can be created yourself. A mix with equal parts potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite is often recommended. Other good components include peat moss, pumice, and coco coir.

Temperature & Humidity

• Warm temperatures are ideal. The Mini Monstera prefers temperatures between 55-95°F (13-35°C). Avoid placing it near heating or cooling vents and cold drafts.
• Humidity is a plus. While it can adapt to average household humidity (40-50%), it will thrive in higher humidity (50-70%). You can increase humidity by using a humidifier, placing the plant on a pebble tray with water, or keeping it in a naturally humid room like a bathroom.

Support

• This is a climbing plant. In its natural habitat, Rhaphidophora tetrasperma climbs trees. Providing a moss pole, trellis, or stake to climb will encourage it to grow upright and help the leaves develop their signature splits.

Fertilizer

• Fertilize during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during spring and summer.
• Dilute the fertilizer. Diluting the fertilizer more than the recommended amount can help prevent “fertilizer burn.”
• Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter. The plant’s growth slows during the colder months, and it does not need extra nutrients.

Other Care Tips:

• Pruning: Regularly pruning your plant will help it maintain its shape and promote bushier, healthier growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves.
• Pests: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Toxicity: Be aware that Rhaphidophora tetrasperma contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of children and animals.