Monstera deliciosa 'Mint' – Rare Climbing Aroid with Pastel Elegance
Monstera deliciosa 'Mint' is a striking collector cultivar, known for its dreamy blend of mint-green, cream, and white variegation across large, fenestrated leaves. Unlike high-contrast forms, this version leans into soft marbling — making it a standout in curated collections or minimalist plant setups. Native to rainforests in southern Mexico through Panama, this hemiepiphytic species thrives indoors with the right light, humidity, and support.


What Makes Monstera 'Mint' So Unique?


 
Pastel Chimeral Variegation: Stable mint-and-white tones, genetically fixed and not affected by light intensity.
 
Iconic Leaf Shape: Mature foliage up to 90 cm wide with deep slits and fenestrations.
 
Fast Vertical Growth: Climbs up to 2 m indoors with a moss pole or coir totem.
 
Low Availability: Rarely propagated, often sold out — ideal for advanced collectors.


Habitat and Growth Behavior of Monstera deliciosa


In its natural habitat, Monstera deliciosa climbs up trees in the warm, humid understories of Central America. It's a hemiepiphyte — often germinating in soil before climbing with thick aerial roots. The 'Mint' form is a cultivar selected from spontaneous tissue culture mutations and propagated for its subtle variegation.
 
Native range: Southern Mexico to Panama
 
Growth habit: Upright climber with thick aerial roots
 
Indoor height: Typically 1.5–2 m with vertical support
 
Toxicity: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; harmful if ingested


How to Care for Monstera 'Mint'



Light Needs
 
Bright, indirect light promotes healthy growth and leaf size
 
Avoid direct sun on white or mint areas — they can scorch easily

Watering Routine
 
Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry
 
Use distilled or rainwater to reduce spotting on pale leaf sections
 
Always allow for proper drainage to prevent root rot

Humidity and Climate
 
Prefers 60 %+ humidity; benefits from grouping or humidifier
 
Ideal temperature: 18–28 °C; avoid drafts or hot dry air

Soil and Potting
 
Use a chunky, well-draining mix: coconut coir, orchid bark, perlite
 
Terracotta pots help prevent waterlogging

Fertilization
 
Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g. 20-20-20), diluted to half strength
 
Flush substrate every few months to avoid salt buildup

Repotting and Support
 
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots circle the container
 
Add a moss or coir pole early to encourage larger leaf formation

Propagation and Maintenance
 
Cuttings with at least one node; aerial root optional but helpful
 
Can root in water, moss, or semi-hydro setups like LECA
 
Wipe leaves gently to maintain sheen and allow light absorption


Troubleshooting Monstera 'Mint'



Pests
 
Common: spider mites, thrips, mealybugs — treat early with neem or insecticidal soap

Watering Issues
 
Yellow leaves: Often from overwatering or dense soil
 
Brown edges: Usually low humidity or salt accumulation

Growth and Variegation
 
Reverted leaves: Prune back to last variegated node
 
Slow growth: Improve light, warmth, and feeding consistency


Botanical Context and Taxonomy


 
Genus:Monstera, from Latin "monstrum" referencing its dramatic leaves
 
Species:Monstera deliciosa — named for the edible fruit in wild specimens
 
Botanical authority: Monstera deliciosa Liebm., published in Vidensk. Meddel. Naturhist. Foren. Kjøbenhavn 1: 19 (1849)
 
Cultivar origin: 'Mint' form emerged via stabilized tissue culture mutation


Helpful Grower Tips


 
Symmetrical growth: Rotate the plant every few weeks
 
LECA-friendly: Adapts well to full semi-hydro setups with proper nutrients
 
Leaf size boost: Combine high humidity with vertical support for larger leaves


Frequently Asked Questions


Is Monstera 'Mint' safe for pets?No — like all Monsteras, it contains calcium oxalates and is toxic if ingested.
Will brighter light increase mint variegation?No. The variegation is genetic. Light supports health but doesn’t affect color distribution.
Can I grow Monstera 'Mint' in LECA full-time?Yes — if nutrient solution and pH are kept consistent.
How do I fix green-only growth?Cut back to the last variegated node and monitor new shoots.


Bring Home Monstera deliciosa 'Mint'


With its soft, mint-hued foliage and architectural growth, Monstera deliciosa 'Mint' adds subtle elegance to any indoor jungle. This rare cultivar sells out fast — don’t miss your chance to own one. Order now and enjoy a living sculpture unlike any other.