Monstera dubia

Monstera dubia

Plant Species Library

Monstera dubia

The Incredible Shingling Monstera That Transforms Walls into Living Art

Among all the Monstera species in the world, Monstera dubia is one of the most fascinating. Unlike the iconic Monstera deliciosa with its dramatic fenestrated leaves, Monstera dubia begins life as a tiny climbing vine whose leaves lie completely flat against the surface it climbs.

This unusual growth habit, known as shingling, creates the appearance of overlapping roof tiles, giving walls, trees and climbing boards an elegant, textured blanket of living greenery.

As Monstera dubia matures, it undergoes one of the most remarkable transformations in the plant kingdom. The small juvenile leaves gradually develop into much larger mature foliage, completely changing the appearance of the plant as it climbs higher.

Its ability to cling naturally to vertical surfaces using aerial roots makes it one of the finest plants for creating living walls, tropical landscapes and vertical gardens.

At TropicalOrchids254, Monstera dubia has become one of our favourite climbing plants for both collectors and landscaping projects. Whether growing on a decorative board indoors or climbing the walls of a tropical garden, it creates an unforgettable display that becomes more beautiful every year.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name

Monstera dubia

Common Names

• Monstera dubia
• Shingle Plant
• Shingling Monstera
• Climbing Monstera

Family

Araceae

Genus

Monstera

Plant Type

Rare climbing aroid

Growth Habit

Evergreen climbing vine

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Growth Rate

Moderate to Fast

Mature Height

Over 20 metres in nature

Several metres in cultivation when given a climbing surface.

Leaf Size

Juvenile leaves:
5–12 cm

Mature leaves:
20–60 cm or larger

Native Region

Central and South America

Botanical Classification

Kingdom

Plantae

Clade

Angiosperms

Clade

Monocots

Order

Alismatales

Family

Araceae

Genus

Monstera

Species

Monstera dubia

Why We Love Monstera dubia

Monstera dubia is unlike any other Monstera.

Most Monsteras are admired for their large split leaves, but Monstera dubia captivates collectors because of its incredible transformation from a delicate juvenile vine into a bold tropical climber.

Its juvenile leaves are:

• Small
• Heart-shaped
• Silvery green
• Beautifully patterned
• Flat against the climbing surface

As it matures, the leaves become dramatically larger and begin transitioning into the adult form, making it feel like two completely different plants in one lifetime.

Very few houseplants undergo such a spectacular change.

What Makes Monstera dubia So Special?

The defining feature of Monstera dubia is its shingling growth habit.

Each leaf lies flat against the surface it climbs, while the aerial roots attach firmly behind it.

This allows the vine to hug:

• Tree trunks
• Rock faces
• Walls
• Wooden boards
• Moss poles
• Coco fibre poles

The result is a beautifully textured living surface that looks almost sculptural.

As the plant climbs higher and receives better light, the leaves gradually become larger and more mature, producing one of the most rewarding growth transformations among tropical plants.

Origin

Monstera dubia is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America.

It naturally occurs in countries including:

• Peru
• Ecuador
• Colombia
• Bolivia
• Brazil

These forests provide warm temperatures, high humidity and abundant trees that the plant uses as natural climbing supports.

History

Monstera dubia has long been appreciated by botanical collectors because of its extraordinary juvenile foliage.

As interest in rare aroids has grown around the world, it has become one of the most sought-after climbing Monsteras for indoor collections and tropical landscaping.

Unlike many collector plants that rely solely on colourful variegation, Monstera dubia is prized for its unique growth habit and remarkable transition from juvenile to mature foliage.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Monstera dubia begins life on the rainforest floor.

Once it encounters a tree, it immediately starts climbing upwards.

Using its aerial roots, the vine anchors itself tightly against the bark while growing towards brighter conditions high in the forest canopy.

During this journey, the plant experiences:

• Brighter filtered sunlight
• Improved airflow
• Higher humidity
• Increased growing space

These changing conditions encourage the plant to develop progressively larger leaves as it matures.

Why It Climbs

Monstera dubia is a true climber.

It is not naturally a trailing plant.

Its aerial roots are specially adapted to grip rough surfaces, allowing the plant to climb safely towards better light.

As it climbs, the plant responds by producing:

• Larger leaves
• Stronger stems
• More vigorous growth
• Mature foliage
• A dramatic tropical appearance

Providing a vertical surface is one of the most important factors in growing an impressive specimen.

Leaves

Juvenile Monstera dubia leaves are among the most distinctive in the Monstera genus.

Characteristics include:

• Heart-shaped foliage
• Silver-green colouring
• Dark green veins
• Matte finish
• Overlapping growth
• Flat against the climbing surface
• Compact spacing between leaves

As the plant matures, the foliage changes dramatically.

Mature leaves become:

• Much larger
• Thicker
• Darker green
• More elongated
• Less tightly pressed against the support

This remarkable transformation is one of the species' defining features.

Flowers and Fruit

Flowering is uncommon in cultivation but can occur on mature outdoor specimens.

Like other Monsteras, Monstera dubia produces:

• Cream-coloured flowers
• A white protective spathe
• A spadix containing numerous tiny flowers

After successful pollination, elongated fruits may develop, although this is rarely seen in home cultivation.

The plant is primarily grown for its extraordinary foliage rather than its flowers.

Best Growing Method

Monstera dubia performs best when allowed to climb.

Excellent supports include:

• Wooden boards
• Coco fibre support poles
• Moss poles
• Tree trunks
• Stone walls
• Concrete walls
• Brick walls
• Decorative timber panels

The closer the foliage remains to its climbing surface, the more attractive the characteristic shingling effect becomes.

Best Display Locations

Monstera dubia is ideal for creating vertical interest.

Beautiful display locations include:

• Indoor feature walls
• Apartment balconies
• Living rooms
• Offices
• Conservatories
• Courtyards
• Hotel entrances
• Tropical gardens
• Vertical gardens
• Living green walls

Its compact juvenile foliage makes it equally attractive in small apartments and large landscape projects.

Growing in Kenya

Monstera dubia grows exceptionally well throughout Kenya thanks to the country's warm climate and moderate humidity.

Excellent Growing Areas

• Nairobi
• Kiambu
• Limuru
• Thika
• Athi River
• Naivasha
• Nakuru
• Eldoret
• Nanyuki

Coastal Growing

It also performs exceptionally well in:

• Mombasa
• Diani
• Kilifi
• Watamu
• Malindi

The warm temperatures and naturally humid coastal climate encourage vigorous climbing growth and lush foliage.

Why Every Collector Wants One

Monstera dubia offers something very few houseplants can—a completely different appearance at each stage of its life.

Its elegant juvenile leaves create a refined architectural look, while its mature growth reveals a bold tropical climber with significantly larger foliage.

Whether grown indoors on a decorative climbing board or outdoors as part of a tropical landscape, Monstera dubia rewards patience by becoming more impressive every year.

For collectors, interior designers and landscape architects alike, it is one of the most distinctive climbing plants available.

Growing Monstera dubia Successfully in Kenya

Monstera dubia is one of the easiest rare Monsteras to grow in Kenya when its natural rainforest habitat is recreated. Unlike many climbing houseplants, it doesn't simply grow upwards—it actively attaches itself to vertical surfaces using aerial roots, allowing it to climb towards brighter light.

The secret to growing a spectacular Monstera dubia is understanding that it is not a trailing plant. It is a climbing vine that becomes increasingly beautiful as it ascends.

Whether you're growing it indoors on a decorative board or outdoors as a living green wall, providing the right conditions allows the plant to develop healthy foliage and eventually transition into its impressive mature form.

Light Requirements

In nature, Monstera dubia grows beneath the rainforest canopy where it receives bright, filtered light throughout the day.

For the best growth in Kenya, place your plant where it receives:

• Bright indirect light
• Filtered sunlight
• Gentle early morning sunshine
• Good air circulation

Avoid:

• Harsh afternoon sun
• Dark rooms
• Deep shade
• Intense midday sunshine

Plants grown in bright filtered light produce:

• Stronger growth
• Healthier leaves
• Better shingling
• Shorter internodes
• Faster climbing
• Larger mature foliage

Temperature

Monstera dubia enjoys warm tropical temperatures throughout the year.

Ideal temperature:

18°C–30°C

It performs exceptionally well throughout most parts of Kenya.

Protect the plant from:

• Temperatures below 12°C
• Cold winds
• Air conditioners blowing directly onto the foliage

Humidity

Monstera dubia thrives in moderate to high humidity.

Ideal humidity:

60–80%

Higher humidity encourages:

• Better aerial root development
• Stronger attachment to climbing surfaces
• Larger leaves
• Faster growth
• Healthier foliage

Homes in Nairobi may become drier during certain months, while coastal Kenya naturally provides ideal humidity.

To increase humidity:

• Group tropical plants together.
• Grow plants outdoors in shaded areas.
• Mist occasionally during very dry periods.
• Use a humidifier if growing indoors.

Watering

Monstera dubia prefers consistently moist but never waterlogged growing media.

Water thoroughly until excess water drains from the pot, then allow the top few centimetres of the growing medium to begin drying before watering again.

Never allow the roots to sit in water.

Watering Guide for Kenya

Under normal growing conditions, Monstera dubia generally requires watering every 3–5 days, depending on temperature, humidity and airflow.

Nairobi

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Kiambu

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Limuru

Approximately every 4–5 days due to the cooler climate.

Thika

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Athi River

Approximately every 3–4 days during hot weather.

Nakuru

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Eldoret

Approximately every 4–5 days.

Nanyuki

Approximately every 4–5 days.

Mombasa

Approximately every 3–5 days, adjusting according to rainfall.

Diani

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Kilifi

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Watamu

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Malindi

Approximately every 3–5 days.

Always adjust watering according to:

• Pot size
• Plant size
• Airflow
• Temperature
• Humidity
• Growing medium

Never water by the calendar alone—always check that the top layer of the growing medium has begun to dry before watering again.

Growing Medium

Monstera dubia performs best in a coarse, airy growing medium that mimics the loose organic matter found around rainforest tree roots.

A recommended mix includes:

• Coco chips
• Orchid bark
• Coco peat
• Perlite
• Charcoal
• Worm compost

This combination provides:

• Excellent drainage
• High oxygen around the roots
• Moisture retention without waterlogging
• Healthy root development

Avoid compact soils that remain wet for extended periods.

Fertilising

Regular feeding encourages faster climbing and stronger foliage.

At TropicalOrchids254, we recommend:

NHance Seaweed Fertiliser

Apply every two weeks during active growth.

Benefits include:

• Faster root development
• Stronger climbing
• Larger leaves
• Rich green foliage
• Improved resilience
• Faster overall growth

Leaf Care

Juvenile leaves naturally lie flat against their climbing surface and should be kept clean.

Once every month, gently wipe accessible foliage using:

Diluted Achook Neem Oil

Benefits include:

• Cleaner leaves
• Improved photosynthesis
• Natural shine
• Reduced pest problems
• Healthier foliage

Climbing Support

This is the single most important aspect of growing Monstera dubia.

Unlike many houseplants, Monstera dubia should never be encouraged to trail for long periods.

Instead, provide a vertical climbing surface such as:

• Wooden boards
• Coco fibre support poles
• Moss poles
• Tree trunks
• Stone walls
• Concrete walls
• Brick walls

As the aerial roots attach naturally, the plant develops:

• Better shingling
• Stronger stems
• Faster climbing
• Larger mature leaves
• More dramatic growth

Air Movement

Good airflow keeps Monstera dubia healthy.

Healthy air circulation helps:

• Reduce fungal diseases
• Dry foliage after watering
• Strengthen stems
• Encourage vigorous growth

Avoid stagnant indoor environments.

Propagation

Monstera dubia is propagated from stem cuttings.

Each cutting should contain:

• At least one healthy node
• One aerial root if possible
• An active growing point

Cuttings can be rooted in:

• Water
• Sphagnum moss
• Perlite
• Coco chips

Once rooted, provide a climbing surface immediately to encourage healthy juvenile growth.

Growth Rate

Under ideal Kenyan conditions, Monstera dubia grows steadily throughout most of the year.

Growth is influenced by:

• Light
• Temperature
• Humidity
• Nutrition
• Climbing support

Plants that are allowed to climb develop faster and produce noticeably healthier foliage than those left trailing.

Suraj Shah's Growing Secrets

How I Grow Monstera dubia in Kenya

Monstera dubia is one of my favourite climbing plants, not only because of its beautiful juvenile foliage but because of what it can become when used correctly in the landscape.

At TropicalOrchids254, we regularly use Monstera dubia in our landscaping projects to transform plain walls into living green walls. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to introduce vertical greenery into a tropical garden.

Secret 1 – Plant It at the Base of a Wall

Rather than growing Monstera dubia only on boards or moss poles, we often plant it directly into the ground at the base of perimeter walls, retaining walls and building walls.

Once established, the aerial roots naturally attach themselves to the wall without the need for expensive support systems.

Over time, the vine climbs higher and higher, covering the wall with lush overlapping foliage that softens hard architectural surfaces and creates a beautiful tropical backdrop.

We've successfully used this technique in:

• Luxury homes
• Hotels and resorts
• Apartment developments
• Commercial landscapes
• Courtyards
• Private gardens
• Tropical feature walls

It is a simple, natural and highly effective way to create a living green wall with minimal maintenance.

Secret 2 – Let the Plant Mature Naturally

One of the biggest mistakes people make is constantly pruning Monstera dubia or keeping it confined to a small climbing board.

The real beauty of this species is revealed as it climbs.

Young plants produce small, tightly overlapping leaves that cling closely to the wall, creating the classic shingling effect.

As the vine continues climbing and matures, the leaves gradually become much larger, transforming the appearance of the plant.

This natural progression creates a stunning visual effect, with delicate juvenile foliage below and increasingly bold mature leaves above.

The taller the plant grows, the more dramatic the display becomes.

Patience is rewarded with one of the most spectacular climbing aroids you can grow.

My Advice

If you remember only two things about growing Monstera dubia, remember these:

• Plant it in the ground at the base of a wall and allow the aerial roots to attach naturally. This creates a beautiful, low-maintenance living green wall that becomes more impressive every year.
• Allow the plant to climb uninterrupted. As it matures, the leaves become significantly larger, transforming Monstera dubia from a delicate shingling vine into a spectacular vertical tropical feature.

This is the exact method we use at TropicalOrchids254 in many of our landscaping projects across Kenya because it delivers a natural, architectural green wall that continues to improve with age.

Flowering

Flowering is uncommon in cultivation but may occur on mature outdoor specimens that have climbed for many years.

Like other Monsteras, Monstera dubia produces:

• Cream-coloured flowers
• A white spathe
• A central spadix containing numerous tiny flowers

Although interesting, the plant is primarily grown for its extraordinary foliage and climbing habit.

Growing Monstera dubia in Kenya

Kenya provides excellent conditions for Monstera dubia.

Outstanding Growing Areas

• Nairobi
• Kiambu
• Limuru
• Thika
• Naivasha
• Nakuru
• Eldoret
• Nanyuki

Coastal Areas

• Mombasa
• Diani
• Kilifi
• Watamu
• Malindi

The naturally warm temperatures and coastal humidity encourage rapid climbing and lush tropical growth.

Display Ideas

Monstera dubia creates stunning displays when grown:

• On timber climbing boards
• On coco fibre support poles
• On moss poles
• Climbing garden walls
• On retaining walls
• On tree trunks
• On shaded courtyard walls
• In hotel landscapes
• As living green walls
• In tropical vertical gardens

Its versatility makes it equally suitable for indoor collectors and large-scale landscape projects.

Common Pests and Diseases

Monstera dubia is a hardy climbing aroid that performs exceptionally well when grown in bright filtered light, a well-draining growing medium and with good air circulation. Most problems occur because of incorrect watering or poor growing conditions rather than serious diseases.

Regular inspection and preventative care will keep your plant healthy for many years.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are the most common pest affecting Monstera dubia during Kenya's dry seasons.

Symptoms

• Tiny yellow speckles on leaves
• Fine webbing beneath foliage
• Leaves becoming dull
• Dry leaf edges
• Reduced growth

Prevention

Maintain good humidity and inspect the undersides of the leaves regularly.

Treatment

Wipe the leaves using diluted Achook Neem Oil once every month and increase humidity around the plant.

Mealybugs

Mealybugs often hide around leaf joints, stems and aerial roots.

Symptoms

• White cotton-like insects
• Sticky honeydew
• Distorted new growth
• Reduced vigour

Treatment

Remove visible insects by hand before cleaning the entire plant with diluted Achook Neem Oil.

Scale Insects

Scale insects feed by attaching themselves firmly to stems and foliage.

Symptoms

• Brown raised bumps
• Sticky residue
• Yellow leaves
• Slower growth

Treatment

Carefully remove the insects and wipe affected areas with diluted Achook Neem Oil.

Thrips

Thrips usually attack developing leaves before they unfurl.

Symptoms

• Silvery streaks
• Brown scars
• Distorted foliage
• Tiny black droppings

Prevention

Inspect new growth regularly and maintain healthy growing conditions.

Root Rot

Root rot is almost always caused by poor drainage and excessive watering.

Symptoms

• Yellow leaves
• Soft stems
• Black roots
• Bad smell
• Wilting despite wet growing medium

Prevention

Use a coarse, well-draining growing mix and never allow water to stand around the roots.

Healthy roots should always be firm and cream-coloured.

Sunburn

Although Monstera dubia appreciates bright conditions, direct afternoon sun can scorch the foliage.

Symptoms

• Brown patches
• Dry edges
• Burnt leaf tips
• Crispy foliage

Prevention

Grow in bright indirect or filtered sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Low Light Problems

Insufficient light slows growth and reduces the quality of the shingling habit.

Symptoms

• Long internodes
• Weak stems
• Smaller leaves
• Poor attachment to climbing surfaces
• Slower growth

Move the plant to a brighter position with filtered light throughout the day.

Low Humidity Problems

Dry air affects both foliage quality and aerial root development.

Symptoms

• Brown leaf tips
• Curled foliage
• Smaller leaves
• Poor aerial root attachment
• Slower climbing

Higher humidity encourages healthier growth and better wall attachment.

Repotting

Monstera dubia generally benefits from repotting every 2–3 years.

Repot when:

• Roots circle the pot.
• Water drains too quickly.
• Growth slows.
• The plant becomes unstable.

Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid excessive moisture retention.

Pruning

Pruning is usually minimal.

Remove:

• Dead leaves
• Yellow foliage
• Damaged stems
• Diseased growth

Avoid excessive pruning if your goal is to allow the plant to mature into its adult form.

Interior Design

Monstera dubia offers a completely different look from most climbing plants.

Its tightly overlapping juvenile foliage creates elegant living textures that complement:

• Modern interiors
• Tropical Modern homes
• Scandinavian design
• Japandi interiors
• Biophilic offices
• Luxury apartments
• Indoor courtyards
• Conservatories

Mounted on timber or allowed to climb a feature wall, it becomes a true conversation piece.

Hospitality and Commercial Landscaping

Monstera dubia has become one of our favourite climbing plants for commercial landscaping because it delivers a lush tropical appearance without the need for complex green wall systems.

It is ideal for:

• Boutique hotels
• Resorts
• Restaurants
• Office courtyards
• Apartment developments
• Shopping centres
• Garden feature walls
• Entrance courtyards

As the plant matures, it creates a soft green backdrop that blends beautifully with tropical planting schemes.

Using Monstera dubia as a Living Wall in Kenya

One of the greatest strengths of Monstera dubia is its ability to create beautiful living walls naturally.

Unlike modular green wall systems that require expensive irrigation and structural supports, Monstera dubia simply needs a suitable vertical surface and time to establish.

Plant it at the base of:

• Perimeter walls
• Retaining walls
• Boundary walls
• Garden walls
• Courtyard walls
• Building facades

As the aerial roots grip the surface, the plant gradually climbs upwards, covering the wall with dense overlapping foliage.

This creates a natural tropical backdrop that becomes more impressive every year.

For landscape designers, it is one of the most cost-effective ways to introduce vertical greenery into a project.

Growing Outdoors in Kenya

Monstera dubia performs exceptionally well outdoors throughout much of Kenya.

Excellent growing locations include:

• Nairobi
• Karen
• Kiambu
• Limuru
• Thika
• Naivasha
• Nakuru
• Eldoret
• Nanyuki
• Mombasa
• Diani
• Kilifi
• Watamu
• Malindi

Grow it beneath trees or against shaded walls where it receives filtered light and protection from harsh afternoon sun.

Interesting Facts

• Monstera dubia is one of the few plants that naturally grows in a shingling form.
• Juvenile leaves lie completely flat against their climbing surface.
• The aerial roots act like natural anchors, allowing the plant to scale trees and walls.
• Mature leaves can become several times larger than juvenile leaves.
• The plant changes dramatically in appearance as it matures, making it seem like two different species.
• In tropical rainforests, Monstera dubia can climb over 20 metres into the forest canopy.
• Well-established specimens can remain attractive for decades.

Conservation

Wild populations of Monstera dubia are threatened in some regions by habitat loss and deforestation.

Purchasing nursery-propagated plants helps reduce pressure on natural rainforest populations while supporting responsible cultivation.

At TropicalOrchids254, we encourage sustainable propagation so more people can enjoy this remarkable species without impacting wild habitats.

Related Products

Complete your climbing plant collection with products from TropicalOrchids254.

Plants

• Monstera dubia
• Monstera deliciosa
• Monstera Albo
• Monstera Thai Constellation
• Monstera Aurea

Growing Accessories

• Coco Fibre Support Pole

Plant Care

• NHance Seaweed Fertiliser
• Achook Neem Oil

Related Species Library Articles

Continue exploring:

• Monstera Albo
• Monstera Thai Constellation
• Monstera Aurea

About TropicalOrchids254

At TropicalOrchids254, we specialise in growing orchids, rare houseplants and tropical collector plants for homes, hotels, offices, interior designers and landscape projects throughout Kenya.

Every plant is supported by detailed Kenyan care guides based on both botanical knowledge and practical growing experience.

Our goal is to help every customer grow healthy, thriving tropical plants with confidence.

Summary

Monstera dubia is one of the most distinctive climbing aroids in the world. Its beautiful juvenile shingling leaves, remarkable transformation into larger mature foliage and natural ability to climb walls make it an outstanding choice for both plant collectors and landscape designers.

Provide bright indirect or filtered sunlight, water approximately every 3–5 days as the growing medium begins to dry, use a free-draining substrate and encourage the plant to climb rather than trail. Whether grown on a timber board indoors or planted at the base of a garden wall, Monstera dubia rewards patience by becoming increasingly dramatic as it matures.

At TropicalOrchids254, we've seen firsthand how this species can transform ordinary walls into lush tropical features. With time, its aerial roots naturally anchor to the surface, its foliage becomes progressively larger and the result is a living wall that grows more impressive with every season.

TropicalOrchids254 – Kenya's Rare Houseplant Specialists

Living Art. Made in Kenya.