Description
IS IT REALLY A MINI MONSTERA? WHAT ARE ITS ORIGINS?
In reality, the Monstera ‘Ginny’ is of the Raphidophora genus. It is a tropical plant original from rainforests in Southeast Asia, where it attaches itself to the trees and climbs. It has fenestrations on its leaves, which are much smaller than those of the Monstera deliciosa in its adult form. Despite the resemblance, it is not a mini Monstera. But, like Monstera deliciosa and Philodendrons, it belongs to the Araceae family.
MONSTERA GINNY: THE IDEAL INDOOR PLANT
The Monstera ‘Ginny’ () has certain characteristics that make it an ideal indoor plant. I like to think of plants in their natural environment to get some clues on how to provide similar conditions at home. As a tropical plant, that in its natural form lives under the canopy of the rainforests, I know that it will tolerate a lower light level. Also, that it will likely prefer a bit of humidity and moisture.
RAPHIDOPHORA TETRASPERMA PLANT DESCRIPTION
Raphidophora tetrasperma is a tropical, fast growing plant with small, fenestrated leaves, of about 6 inches in size. As a house plant, it usually grows 4-5 feet in height but it can reach 10-12 feet when outdoors. It grows as a vine and does better when supported with either a moss pole, trellis or similar. Does not grow as much hanging. It is also not pet or kid-friendly as it can be toxic if ingested.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR YOUR MINI MONSTERA ‘GINNY’
How much light will Raphidophora tetrasperma need?
This plant prefers bright indirect light and can also tolerate lower light conditions. Placing it near east or west-facing windows is usually ideal. Take special care in not putting it under direct sunlight. Not only it will burn the leaves and cause browning, but it could also dry out the soil too fast. In low light conditions, a growth light can assist in meeting the plant’s needs.
How often should I water my mini monstera ‘Ginny’?
Regular watering supports growth but it is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. It is best to allow for the top inch or two to dry between watering. This is about once a week in the warm months, and a lower frequency (every other week) during winter months. A good way to determine the need for watering is to use a moisture meter, especially to distinguish when to water as the seasons change. It is also important to consider the type of pot and the amount of light it receives. If placed very close to a window or if using a terracotta pot, you may need to water more often, as it will dry out faster. Conversely, placing it in lower light conditions or in a glazed ceramic pot would keep moisture longer, thus needing less frequent watering. Water thoroughly but do not let it sit in water. Discard any water left on the saucer to prevent root rot.
What about humidity and temperature for my mini monstera?
As a tropical plant, it prefers higher humidity and warmer temperatures but it can tolerate standard humidity as well. It will appreciate a humidifier close by or the proximity to other plants. This is particularly key during winter months, where the humidity is low. If the temperature drops below 55 F, it is advisable to bring indoors.
Which soil and fertilizer should I use with my ‘Ginny’?
It prefers well-drained soil mixes such as cactus potting mix. Also you may use regular potting soil and mix in perlite or sand for aeration. It is important to use well-drained soil to avoid root rot. Fertilize monthly during growing season, but avoid harsh fertilizers as the root system is very sensitive and can burn. All purpose fertilizers will work but preferably balanced, organic options.
What pests should I worry about?
The most common pests that could infest your plant are spider mites. You may spray with NEEM oil. Take care of doing it outside and avoid contact of NEEM oil with the skin.
Scientific Name:
Rhaphidophora tetrasperma
Common Names:
Mini Monstera, Monstera Ginny
Rita (verified owner) –
Anonymous (verified owner) –
Plant came wilted and unsupported by soil. After 5 days most leaves dead. Need refund or replacement
melissa G. (verified owner) –
Pretty plant, seems healthy.
Richard Kennedy (verified owner) –
Beautiful
Jessica S. (verified owner) –
So green and lush!!! Love it!
John D. (verified owner) –
I love my new plant but I must say that I thought it would be much larger for the price
Deserae Lindsley (verified owner) –
Very full plant with tons of leaves. Can’t wait to watch it grow! I’m a repeat customer and I can’t wait to come back for more! Thanks Plant Vine. I’m already waiting on my next shipment.
La Kisha (verified owner) –
I am so pleased with my purchase! My tetrasperma is beautiful and already has new leaves. The packaging was amazing, and the package arrived in a very timely manner with minimal leaf damage. I will definitely be ordering again soon! I hope all my orders are this beautiful and well packaged.
MICHELE (verified owner) –
It had a few yellow leaves and a few ripped. I had a little higher hopes
Julie W. (verified owner) –
Happy, exquisite, picture of health. A heartthrob too.
Anonymous –
Ronald Bell (verified owner) –
Smaller than expected arrived healthy
mike r. (verified owner) –
I LOVE IT ANONYMOUS
Mike Reed (verified owner) –
I LOVE IT
Brendan C. (verified owner) –
Natalie E. (verified owner) –
More beautiful than I expected! So full and the packaging was amazing.
Jen (verified owner) –
This dude is so cool! I was so thrilled to find a Tetrasperma on a trellis with multiple vines. This is my third tetrasperma.
This one didn’t fare as well as the Monstera did with the rough handling of the Fed-ex delivery driver. It lost a lot of dirt and the trellis moved around/loosened. There were some lost leaves and it’s been a little angry. Again, NOT the fault of PlantVine, but of Fed-Ex losing the package for two days and then literally throwing a 25 lb box at my front door with no care, then running back to the truck.
I’m still thrilled and would gladly shop with PlantVine again.
Maria Godoy (verified owner) –
Happy with the plant, looks exactly like in the pic
Delphine Kelly (verified owner) –
Beautiful also, I’m so happy with my selection of plants. All plants arrived packed well .
Alexander (verified owner) –
Wsyne McGuff (verified owner) –
Peggy S (verified owner) –
Beautiful plant! Delivered to my porch in an upside down box.
mona m. (verified owner) –
The plant was frozen and dead on arrival, the packaging was not damaged but due to weather, the plant arrived dead and limp.
Beyssa (verified owner) –
Absolutely beautiful and very full
Jeffrey Smiley (verified owner) –
Everything arrived in perfect condition! This is my third order!
Joy (verified owner) –
Anonymous (verified owner) –
Just a little smaller then expected
Tanisha –
Unfortunately, my plant arrived crushed. I’m rating my experience at a 5 because PlantVine took great care of me and sent a refund through promptly.
Keith (verified owner) –
Plant came in pretty rough shape (with time and distance I anticipated that). I know it will survive and thrive.
Thanks for your service!
Anonymous (verified owner) –