Monsteras make an ideal indoor plant with their vibrant, large leaves that sport distinctive splits or holes, known as “fenestrations.” Native to the tropical rainforests of Central America and Mexico, these climbers are humidity-loving and can add a trendy jungle aesthetic to your home. 

When it comes to caring for your Monstera, paying attention to its light requirements is crucial. Providing the right amount of sunlight is one of the simplest ways to promote healthy growth. It’ll facilitate better photosynthesis and thus, strengthen the plant's upright structure and ability to produce those fenestrated leaves. If you're unsure about how much sunlight a Monstera needs or can tolerate, this article is just for you. 

Continue reading as we cover everything you need to know about Monstera light needs, from the type of light it thrives in to the optimal amoun it requirest. Let’s dive in!

About Monstera Plants

Monstera plants, known for their stunning foliage, are a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts. Characterized by large, glossy leaves that often develop unique splits and holes, these tropical beauties thrive in warm, humid environments. They symbolize growth and connection, making them popular choices for both homes and offices. Moreover, Monsteras are quite easy to propagate, so you can multiply a single plant and grow new baby Swiss Cheese plants.

Although not always easy to care for, the key to keeping these plants thriving is simple: provide bright, indirect light, water your Monstera regularly, and fertilize it occasionally to support healthy growth. It's also important to note that these plants can be toxic to pets if ingested, so keep them out of reach of your curious cats and dogs.

Among the most sought-after varieties is the Monstera Thai Constellation (Monstera deliciosa) that's known for its striking and unique varigation. The Swiss Cheese Monstera (Monstera adansonii) is equally popular, featuring smaller, heart-shaped leaves with distinctive holes to add a whimsical touch to your space. Additionally, the Split Leaf Philodendron (Monstera Deliciosa) boasts large split leaves that can evoke visual interest every time. 

Now, let’s explore what kind and how much light a Monstera truly needs for optimal health.

How Much Light Does a Monstera Need?

A Monstera needs at least 5-8 hours of dappled (or filtered) light each day to maintain its healthy growth and vibrant leaves. Even in its natural habitat - the tropical forests - Monstera grows under the canopy of larger trees, thriving in indirect light. Indoors, you can replicate the similar (if not the exact) conditions by keeping it near a window that blocks the majority of the direct sun’s rays.

What Kind of Light Does a Monstera Need? 

A Monstera needs bright, indirect light for maximum growth, as well as to protect its leaves from sunburn. This makes an east, south, or west-facing window a perfect spot to keep Monsteras indoor,s which will ensure your green buddy stretches enough to produce as many new leaves as possible. 

How Do I Know If My Monstera Is Getting Enough Light? 

You’ll know your Monstera is getting its daily dose of light if it's putting out new leaves with the characteristic splits or holes, maintaining a healthy green color (or prominanent variegation) and growing at a moderate pace. On the other hand, slow growth, fading leaves, and solid leaves without any holes signal a problem with the amount of light your plant is receiving.

What Happens If Monstera Doesn't Get Enough Light?

Your Monstera will display the following symptoms if the light levels aren't high enough or if it's struggling to get the required amount of light:

• Leaves won't split
• Leaves are turning yellow, or the natural green color is slowly fading away
• Soil retains moisture for longer than usual, indicating there's not enough light to dry it
• Slow growth
• Stems are becoming leggy

Monstera Low Light Issues: How Do You Revive Monstera? 

If your Monstera is struggling, due to low light issues, the first step is to move it closer to a bright, indirect light source. If natural light isn't possible, artificial light from grow lights will also work. Low light can slow growth and cause leaves to yellow or wilt. Once it's in a better-lit spot, be patient to see some results. Also, avoid overwatering, and make sure the soil drains well. You should start to see healthier leaves and new growth within a few weeks.

Is My Monstera Getting Too Much Light? 

Too much light isn't good for your Monstera, either. If your plant is getting more sunlight than it requires, you may notice signs like yellowing or browning leaf edges, curling leaves, or a lack of new growth. The leaves might also appear pale or scorched, weakening the overall plant structure. 

How Do I Know If Monstera Is Getting Too Much Sun? 

Again, your Monstera will let you know if it's getting too much sun through the following signs:

• Yellowing leaves
• Brown leaves
• Leaves curling at the tips
• Scorched patches all over the leaves
• Soil dries out quickly after watering

How Do You Save Monstera From Sun Damage?

To save your Monstera from sun damage or excess light, firstly, move it to a spot with indirect sunlight, as direct sun can scorch its leaves. Check for any yellow spots or browning edges, which are signs of too much light. Trim the damaged leaves to encourage new growth and mist the plant regularly to maintain humidity. You can also place a sheer curtain over the window to filter the light or move the plant a few feet away from the window to reduce intensity.

Related: Learn How to Repot Monstera: A Beginner’s Guide

Monstera Light Requirements: FAQs

Q: Why is my Monstera so pale?

A:  A pale Monstera could mean it's not getting enough light. Monsteras need bright, indirect light for at least 5-8 hours to thrive. If it's too far from a window or in deep shade, try moving it closer to a brighter spot to improve its leaf color.

Q: How close should Monstera be to the window?

A: Monsteras should be placed about 3-5 ft. away from a bright, indirect light source, like a window. This ensures it gets enough light without direct sun exposure, which can burn its delicate leaves.

Q: Does Monstera do well in shade?

A: Yes, Monsteras can survive in full shade, but they won’t grow as fast. Exposing them to insufficient light for too long will potentially cause slower growth and smaller leaves. Move your plant to a spot with partial shade if grown outdoors in the summer.

Q: Can a grow light burn my Monstera leaves?

A: Yes, grow lights can burn your Monstera if they are kept too close to the plant or their intensity is too high. Keep the light at a safe distance, about 12-18 inches away, and monitor your plant for signs of stress or leaf burning.

Q: Can Monstera tolerate low light? 

A: While Monsteras can tolerate low light, they won’t thrive in it. Low light can lead to slower growth and smaller leaves. It's best to keep your Monstera in bright, indirect light for optimal health.

Q: Can Monstera go outside in summer?

A: Yes, Monsteras can go outside in summer, but make sure to keep them in a partially shaded area with indirect sunlight. Avoid placing them in direct sun to prevent the leaves from burning.

Conclusion

Monsteras grow best in bright, indirect light. While any exposure to direct sunlight can damage their leaves, low light can stunt their growth. For optimal sun exposure, it’s recommended to place your Monstera near or beside an east, south, or west-facing window. This will ensure your lovely plant stays vibrant and thriving without the risk of leaf burn or slow development.

Good companion plants that also enjoy similar light conditions as Monsteras include the Peace Lily, Philodendrons, and Snake Plants. These housplant varieties appreciate bright, indirect light and create a lovely indoor jungle when grouped together.