Monstera sp. 'Esqueleto' is a very large and as yet undescribed Monstera

It has long been sold under the incorrect name Monstera epipremnoides. The name 'Esqueleto' comes from Spanish and means "skeleton", which is very fitting considering the dramatic holes in the leaves that give them a skeleton-like appearance.

This Monstera develops extremely large leaves, up to 80 centimeters long and 40 centimeters wide. The leaves have very large holes that extend almost to the edge of the leaf, as well as a row of smaller holes along the midrib. Because of the large holes, the leaves are quite limp and hang down under their own weight when they reach a certain size.

Botanical description

Monstera sp. 'Esqueleto' was officially registered as a cultivar by the International Aroid Society in 2018 when it became clear that this was not the true M. epipremnoides. The true M. epipremnoides is a Costa Rican mountain plant that only grows at altitudes between 800-1800 meters and does not tolerate hot temperatures. (epipremnoides means 'like epipremnum')

Unlike M. epipremnoides, which has slotted leaves like an Epipremnum pinnatum 35-55 centimeters long and 22-35 centimeters wide, 'Esqueleto' has much larger leaves that instead have large holes.

The plant will likely be described as a separate species in the future. Until then, it is marked with the suffix "sp." after the genus name as a separate but as yet undescribed species.

Care

Give the Monstera a stable climbing support that can handle the heavy weight of the mature leaves. A sturdy moss pole will be very valuable.

Place it in bright, indirect light. The plant needs plenty of light to develop its characteristic large holes in the leaves. During the winter months, supplemental light from a grow light should be used.

Water when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry. Use a well-drained soil mix, such as our ready-made aroid soil. Temperatures between 18-27°C are perfect. Buy Monstera esqueleto online!