Why Monstera doesn’t have holes?
Monstera deliciosa, also known as “Monstera deliciosa” or “Monstera philodendron” , is a plant that has long fascinated plant lovers with its unique leaves. These green, large leaves with characteristic holes and indentations are not just decoration; have their specific meaning and function. Wondering why Monstera has such unusual leaves?
Well, the reasons are both practical and evolutionary.
On the one hand, holes in the leaves help the plant survive in its natural environment. In humid and dense tropical forests, where access to light is limited. Thanks to these holes, the leaves can better capture light and transmit it to the lower parts of the plant.
On the other hand, holes in leaves have adaptive significance . These enable the leaves to better cope with rainfall and strong winds typical of tropical environments. Instead of retaining water on their surface, which could lead to damage or rot, monster leaves allow water to flow easily thanks to their holes.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the secrets that lie behind these characteristic holes.
Understanding them will allow you not only to take better care of your monstera but also to appreciate its extraordinary beauty and uniqueness.
Reasons for the lack of holes in Monstera leaves
Although holes in the leaves are characteristic of Monstera, there are cases where this plant does not develop these unique characteristics. Let us take a look at why a monstera plant may not have holes in its leaves.
The youth of the plant
Young Monstera deliciosa plants often have leaves without holes. This phenomenon is normal – holes begin to appear as the plant matures.
In the natural growth cycle, only older leaves develop characteristic indentations and holes.
Insufficient lighting
One of the key factors influencing the development of holes in leaves is light. Insufficient lighting can cause new leaves to grow full, without holes.
Monstera requires bright but diffused light to develop holes in its leaves properly.
Improper care
Factors such as improper irrigation, lack of adequate nutrients or improper temperature can affect leaf development.
Environmental stress can disrupt normal leaf development, leading to the appearance of full leaves without the characteristic holes.
Plant genetics
Some Monstera varieties may naturally develop fewer or no holes in their leaves. It depends on the genetic makeup of the plant in question.
Genetic diversity among monster plants means that not all of them will have the same leaf appearance.
Why do monstera leaves have holes?
Monstera leaves with holes are not only a decorative element, but also have important biological and adaptive functions. Here are some reasons why holes appear in the leaves of this wonderful plant.
Adaptation to environmental conditions
Adaptation of monstera leaves to environmental conditions is a complex biological process. Its aim is to increase the plant’s chances of survival and growth in its natural environment. Here’s a detailed description of how it works.
Optimization of the Photosynthesis Process
In dense tropical forests, where the monstera naturally occurs, access to light is limited. Holes in the leaves allow light to transmit better to the lower parts of the plant.
Photosynthesis , the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy, is optimized by this unique leaf structure. The holes allow greater exposure to light for the entire plant, which is crucial for its health and growth.
More efficient water management
In humid tropical environments, rainfall can be heavy. Holes in the leaves allow water to drain faster, preventing it from accumulating on the leaf surface, which could lead to rot and the development of fungal diseases.
Water retained on the leaves could also block the light needed for photosynthesis.
Response to environmental conditions
Monstera leaves, depending on the availability of light and other environmental conditions, may develop in different ways. Larger and more pronounced holes may appear in response to greater light availability.
In conditions where light is limited, leaves may develop fewer or no holes at all, an adaptation to
maximize leaf area to absorb light.
Protective mechanism
Protection against predators
In the natural environment of tropical forests, the monstera must cope with a variety of threats. Including pests and herbivorous animals.
Holes in leaves can make leaves look damaged or diseased. This makes them less attractive to some pests and herbivores. This is a way to reduce the risk of being eaten or attacked by pests.
Preventing water accumulation
Holes in the leaves can also prevent rainwater from collecting, which is important in humid, tropical environments. Water remaining on the leaves may promote the development of fungal diseases and attract various pests.
This allows the leaves to dry faster after rainfall, which is another protective factor for the plant.
Evolutionary aspects
Through evolution, plants that developed holes in their leaves were more likely to survive harsh
environmental conditions. This led to such individuals being more common.
How are holes created in Monstera?
Creating holes in the leaves of Monstera Deliciosa is a fascinating phenomenon, combining aspects of biology and plant adaptation. Here is a detailed description of this process:
Leaf Development
In the young growth stage, Monstera Deliciosa leaves are usually full, without holes. As the plant matures, cuts begin to appear on the leaves, which gradually evolve into characteristic holes.The process of creating holes is gradual and may vary depending on the individual growing conditions of the plant.
Genetic Programming
The formation of holes is genetically programmed into the DNA of Monstera Deliciosa. It is a hereditary trait that is passed down from generation to generation.
The plant’s genes dictate how and when holes will begin to form on the leaves.
Response to the Light
One of the key factors influencing the formation of holes is exposure to light. More light often results in more and larger holes, allowing the plant to use light more efficiently in the dense understory of tropical forests.
Environmental factors
In addition to light, other environmental factors such as humidity, temperature and soil quality can affect Monstera leaf development. Conditions similar to the natural tropical environment favor the formation of more holes.
Which monstera varieties have holes?
Monstera Deliciosa is known primarily for its holey leaves, but it is worth noting that there are different varieties in the Monster family, not all of which have this feature. Here is an overview of Monstera varieties and their characteristic foliage features:
Monstera Deliciosa ‘Typical’
This is the most recognizable variety of Monstera, known for its large, holey leaves. This variety is most often associated with characteristic holes.
Monstera Deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’
This variety is similar to the typical Monstera deliciosa, but has smaller leaves. Holes in leaves also occur, but may be fewer or smaller.
Monstera Adansonii
This variety, also known as “Monstera holey” or “Swiss Cheese Plant”, is characterized by smaller leaves with more, smaller holes. It is a separate species from Monstera Deliciosa.
Monstera Obliqua
This is a rarer variety whose leaves have more holes than green surface. It is highly sought after by collectors, but difficult to find and often confused with Monstera Adansonii.
Holeless Varieties
There are also varieties of Monstera that do not naturally develop holes in their leaves. However, they are less common and may be harder to find commercially. Examples of such varieties are:
- Monstera Deliciosa ‘Albovariegata’ – This variety can sometimes develop leaves without holes, especially when the plant is young or not receiving enough light.
- Monstera ‘Borsigiana’ – Young plants of this variety may have leaves without holes, which may develop over time as the plant matures.
- Monstera Siltepecana – While not as common as other varieties, this Monstera variety tends to develop smaller leaves that are often without holes.
- Monstera Hybrids – Some hybrids may also display fewer distinctive features, including the
absence of holes in the leaves, depending on their genetics.
How to make a Monstera have holes?
To achieve the striking appearance of Monstera Deliciosa leaves with their characteristic holes, there are
several key care practices you can follow. Here are tips to encourage the development of holes in leaves:
Optimal Light
Provide the plant with bright but diffused light. Too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves, but too little light can inhibit the development of holes. Consider placing the plant where it will receive adequate natural light, but avoid direct sunlight.
Proper Hydration
Monstera deliciosa likes moderately moist soil. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Regular but moderate watering promotes healthy leaf growth and hole development.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization during the growing period (spring-summer) supports the healthy development of the plant. Use fertilizers intended for indoor or tropical plants. Excessive fertilization can harm the plant, so apply fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Air humidity
Ensuring adequate air humidity is crucial, especially in dry interiors. Consider using a humidifier or misting the plant regularly. High humidity mimics Monstera’s natural environment and encourages the development of holes in the leaves.
Care and pruning
Regularly trimming damaged or old leaves can stimulate the plant to produce new, healthier leaves with holes. Pruning also helps keep the plant in good condition and promotes its growth.
Summary and Conclusions
To sum up, monstera is a plant that fascinates with its unique leaf structure. In this article, we have discussed various aspects related to the characteristic holes in its leaves, including their adaptation to environmental conditions, protective mechanisms, as well as the various reasons why some leaves may not have holes.
Key conclusions
- Adaptation and Function. The holes in Monstera leaves are not only decorative but play a key role in adapting the plant to its natural environment, enabling better use of light and drainage of rainwater.
- Variety of Varieties. Different varieties of Monstera show different leaf characteristics, from full leaves to intensely pitted leaves, which is the result of genetic differences.
- The Impact of Growing Conditions. Growing conditions such as lighting, humidity, and proper care have a significant impact on the development of holes in Monstera leaves.
- Plant Development. Young Monstera Deliciosa plants usually have full leaves, with holes appearing as the plant matures.
Sources
HS1071/HS311: Monstera Growing in the Florida Home Landscape – This article offers information on planting and caring for Monstera Deliciosa in various soil types, and also provides tips on fertilizing and caring for the plant in the home landscape. You can find it at edis.ifas.ufl.edu
Monstera Deliciosa on the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox – This page describes the various varieties of Monstera Deliciosa, including ‘Albo Variegata’ and ‘Thai Constellation’, as well as general information about growing and caring for the plant. Check out plants.ces.ncsu.edu
“The Adaptive Function of Leaf Fenestrations in Monstera spp (Araceae)” by Cassie Lubenow – This article examines the adaptive functions of holes in Monstera leaves, such as water absorption, wind damage reduction, and herbivory prevention. It is available at digitalcommons.usf.edu
