If you’ve ever admired a Monstera leaf with its dramatic holes and cuts, you’ve already been introduced to one of the plant world’s most iconic features: fenestrations. These natural leaf splits are more than just eye-catching—they’re a fascinating example of how plants adapt to their environment. Let’s take a closer look at why Monsteras develop fenestrations, what they mean, and how to encourage them in your own plant at home.
What Are Fenestrations, Exactly?
Fenestrations are the splits or holes that appear in the leaves of mature Monstera deliciosa, often nicknamed the “Swiss cheese plant.” These perforations aren’t random—they serve a purpose. In the wild, Monsteras grow in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, climbing trees in the dense jungle underbrush. Their fenestrated leaves allow:
• Rain and wind to pass through without damaging the plant
• Light to filter down to lower leaves on the vine
• Energy efficiency, enabling the plant to grow large leaves without expending unnecessary resources on fully solid surfaces
Fun fact: In their natural habitat, wild Monsteras can climb up to 60 feet high, with enormous, deeply fenestrated leaves that look more like living art than houseplants.
What Do Fenestrations Mean for Your Monstera?
In short? Your Monstera is thriving.
Fenestrations are a sign of maturity and health. Young Monsteras start with solid, heart-shaped leaves. As they grow—and if they’re happy with their environment—the leaves begin to evolve, first with slits, then with full holes, and sometimes even double splits. This transformation is a visual indicator that your plant is entering its glow-up era.
So if you start noticing new leaves with holes, take it as a win. Your care routine is working.
How to Encourage Fenestrations at Home
You don’t need to live in a rainforest to help your Monstera thrive. With a little care and the right setup, your plant can channel its inner jungle giant right from your living room.
✅ 1. Give It the Right Light
Monstera deliciosa houseplants thrive in bright, indirect light—similar to what they’d experience beneath the rainforest canopy. This can be achieved by placing your plant near an east- or west-facing window, or by using a high-quality LED grow light. Be cautious of direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves over time.
If you’re supplementing with grow lights, consistency is key. Aim for 10–12 hours of light per day to support healthy growth and encourage fenestrations.
• For the Large Aspect, hang the light 2–4 feet above your Monstera to deliver optimal coverage.
• If you’re using the Highland, allow 3–5 feet of distance for a narrow beam or 2–3 feet for a wide beam setting.
Keep in mind that while Monsteras can survive in low to medium light, they may experience slower growth and fewer fenestrations under those conditions. Using a properly positioned grow light ensures your Monstera has the energy it needs to thrive—even in rooms without natural sunlight.
💧 2. Water Wisely
Keep the soil lightly moist but never soggy. Overwatering can cause root stress and stunt leaf development. Stick to a routine, but always check the soil before watering.
🌱 3. Feed During the Growing Season
A balanced fertilizer during spring and summer can help support lush, healthy growth. Fenestrated leaves require more energy to produce—feeding helps fuel that process.
📏 4. Provide Support
In the wild, Monsteras are natural climbers—basically the overachievers of the plant world. Giving your Monstera a moss pole, trellis, or stake is like giving it a promotion: it’ll start reaching upward and producing larger, more mature (and fabulously fenestrated) leaves. As it climbs, you’ll likely notice aerial roots popping out. These help the plant anchor itself and absorb moisture in its native habitat. You can tuck them into a moss pole or let them do their thing—but if they get unruly or start creeping across your bookshelf, it’s totally okay to trim them back. It won’t hurt the plant.
And if your Monstera is starting to look cramped or root bound, consider giving it a fresh pot. Everyone appreciates a little more legroom—even your plant.
⏳ 5. Be Patient
If your Monstera is still young, don’t worry—it just needs time. Fenestrations typically appear as the plant matures, and younger plants or recent cuttings often produce solid, heart-shaped leaves for a while before developing those signature splits and holes.
I see plenty of posts in houseplant Facebook groups asking, “Why doesn’t my Monstera have fenestrations yet?” The answer is usually one of three things: it’s still a baby, it was recently propagated, or it’s simply not getting the light or nutrients it needs. With consistent care, the right amount of bright, indirect light, and a little patience, those iconic fenestrations will show up—sometimes gradually, and sometimes all at once in a new leaf.
A Plant That Tells a Story
Monsteras don’t just grow—they express. Each new leaf is like a living journal entry, showing exactly how well it’s been cared for. Fenestrations are your plant’s way of saying, “I’m thriving, thanks!” Plus, did you know the name Monstera comes from the Latin word for “monstrous”? Not because it’s scary—but because those huge, holey leaves were once considered wild and unusual by early botanists.
So whether you’re nurturing a baby Monstera or caring for a climbing giant, remember: those iconic holes are a badge of health, strength, and serious jungle energy. With the right setup—including supportive lighting and a little upward encouragement—you’re well on your way to growing your very own indoor rainforest masterpiece.
Want help styling your Monstera or curious about more ways to make your indoor plants thrive? Let’s keep growing together—ask us a question. 🌿
