Monstera deliciosa 'Form 6'

DESCRIPTION
🌿 Monstera deliciosa 'Form 6' is a distinctive form of the classic Swiss cheese plant from the Araceae family, native to the tropical rainforests of Central America. This variety, sometimes called the green form, develops the characteristic fenestrations (leaf holes) and splits that make Monstera species so recognizable, though it typically shows these features earlier in its growth cycle than standard varieties. Originally found climbing up trees in humid jungles from southern Mexico to Panama, this tropical aroid has adapted well to indoor growing conditions and is considered beginner-friendly for most plant keepers. Fun fact: the 'Form 6' designation refers to a specific phenotype selected for its reliable fenestration pattern and compact growth habit compared to wild-type specimens.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This form grows as a climbing plant that will naturally reach upward when given a support structure like a moss pole or trellis, though it can also be grown as a trailing specimen in hanging baskets. The leaves emerge heart-shaped when young and develop their signature splits and holes as they mature, with each leaf growing progressively larger and more fenestrated than the last. Foliage is a rich, glossy green that maintains its colour year-round under proper lighting conditions. The leaf texture is smooth and somewhat leathery, with a substantial feel that makes them quite durable compared to thinner-leaved houseplants.
FLOWER DETAILS
Monstera deliciosa produces a cream-coloured spadix flower surrounded by a white spathe, similar to other aroids like peace lilies or calla lilies. The flowers have a subtle, sweet fragrance that becomes more noticeable as they mature. While the blooms are aesthetically interesting with their unusual structure, they're rarely the main attraction compared to the dramatic foliage. Indoor flowering is uncommon and typically only occurs in mature plants that have ideal growing conditions, including high humidity, bright indirect light, and established root systems. To encourage flowering, maintain consistent care for several years, provide climbing support to allow the plant to reach maturity, and ensure temperatures stay warm year-round. The flowers eventually develop into an edible fruit that tastes like a combination of pineapple and banana, though this rarely happens indoors.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light is ideal, though it tolerates medium light conditions. Needs about 6-8 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Direct sun will scorch the leaves, while too little light slows growth and reduces fenestration development.
💧 Water: Water thoroughly when the top 5-8 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. In spring and summer, this might mean watering weekly, while autumn and winter require less frequent watering, perhaps every 10-14 days. Water until it drains from the bottom, then empty the saucer to prevent root rot. Bottom watering works well for this plant.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 60-80% humidity but adapts to average home humidity around 40-50%. Higher humidity encourages larger leaves and faster growth.
🪴 Soil: Needs a chunky, well-draining mix with plenty of aeration. A blend of potting soil, perlite, orchid bark, and peat moss or coco coir works well.
🏺 Potting: Use a pot with drainage holes, sized just slightly larger than the root ball. Terracotta allows soil to dry faster, while plastic or ceramic retains moisture longer. Repot every 1-2 years in spring when roots emerge from drainage holes or circle the pot.
🌱 Growth rate: Moderate to fast growth during spring and summer. Can produce 1-2 new leaves per month in peak growing season. Over six months with good care, expect 3-6 new leaves. Within a year, the plant can easily double in size. Mature specimens can reach 2-3 metres indoors with support.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly from spring through summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce to every 6-8 weeks in autumn and stop fertilizing in winter when growth slows.
🐾 Pet friendly: No, this plant is toxic to cats and dogs. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested. Keep out of reach of curious pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
This Monstera works beautifully in living rooms, home offices, or bedrooms where it receives plenty of natural light from a window. Place it near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains, or a few metres back from a south-facing window. The plant looks stunning in a corner with a moss pole or trellis for vertical growth, or on a plant stand where the leaves can cascade. Avoid placing it in dimly lit hallways, windowless bathrooms, or right beside heating vents and air conditioning units. Keep it away from cold drafts near exterior doors during Canadian winters, and don't position it where curious pets or small children can easily reach the leaves.
RARITY ASSESSMENT
common