Rhaphidophora tetrasperma
Mini Monstera
From: £23.95
A brilliant choice for those who like the appearance of a Swiss Cheese Plant, but want a more elegant specimen that is suited for a smaller space.
Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, also known as Philodendron ‘Minima’, boasts gorgeous green foliage, which develop fenestrations (the memorable holes and splits) in the leaves in maturity.
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Plant Biography
Native to southern Thailand and peninsular Malaysia, in cultivation this plant is often described as looking like a small Monstera deliciosa, however the two plants are not actually closely related.
The foliage, rather than being coriaceous (stiff and leathery) alike the leaves of Monstera deliciosa, are relatively thin and flexible and as such provide a more delicate appearance.
Contributing to its elegance, the form of its mature fenestrated leaf is pinnatifid in shape, resembling the fine appearance of a feather.
Expert Tip
Leaf Fenestration
The foliage of Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is heterophyllus, meaning the leaves take on different forms at different stages of the plant’s life.
In this case, the young leaves look markedly different from those of mature plants, as the younger leaves do not form its iconic fenestrations (holes) until later into maturity.
The prevailing theory is that the fenestrations are an evolutionary strategy that allows the plant to capture as much light as possible.
It grows in tropical rainforest environments where little light reaches the forest floor. Fenestrated leaves allow the leaf to cover a larger area without expending extra energy, and allows some light to pass through the holes to the leaves towards the base of the plant.
Care & Size Guidance
The relatively fast growing foliage of Rhaphidophora tetrasperma can easily be trimmed to control and size and define its shape to your liking. Any trimmings can be easily propagated.
Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, as per the name ‘Minima’, is smaller than Monstera deliciosa, but nonetheless grows to a good medium size, suitable for any home.
Great plants, healthy and cheerful.
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