Climbing Houseplants

Climbing houseplants are species that use aerial roots, tendrils or twining stems to grow upward in the wild. Indoors, they climb moss poles, trellises, wall grids or any textured surface their roots can grip. Most belong to the Araceae family, including Monstera, Philodendron, Epipremnum and Syngonium.

When given a support, many climbing species produce larger, more mature foliage than when left to trail. This is why a small Monstera on a moss pole often develops its iconic split leaves sooner than one left unsupported.

Golden Pothos is the most forgiving climber we sell. It attaches readily to a moss pole, grows quickly, and tolerates a wide range of conditions. Monstera adansonii is another fast grower that produces fenestrated leaves more reliably when climbing.

Syngonium species are compact, colourful and easy to manage on a small support. Philodendron scandens is equally forgiving and works well either climbing a pole or trailing from a shelf.

Insert a moss pole, coir totem or bamboo trellis into the pot at repotting time. Gently tie the main stem to the support using soft plant ties, spacing ties every 10 to 15 cm. As the plant grows, its aerial roots will begin gripping the support. Keeping a moss pole lightly moist encourages root attachment.

For wall training, use small adhesive hooks or a wire grid. Guide new growth toward the support and secure it loosely until the aerial roots take hold. Avoid wrapping stems too tightly; the plant needs room to thicken as it matures.

Most climbing houseplants prefer bright indirect light but tolerate moderate conditions. Monstera deliciosa and Golden Pothos cope well in rooms that are not directly sunlit. Avoid harsh direct midday sun, which can scorch thinner leaves.

Species with variegation or velvety texture, such as Philodendron melanochrysum and Marble Queen Pothos, benefit from slightly brighter conditions. Check individual product pages for specific light recommendations.

Most climbing aroids are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Monstera, Philodendron and Epipremnum species all contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause mouth irritation and nausea if chewed.

Placing climbing plants on tall supports can reduce access, but does not eliminate risk entirely. For pet-safe alternatives, browse our Pet-Safe Houseplants collection. Always check the individual product page for pet safety details before purchasing.

Small leaves are usually a sign that the plant is growing in juvenile form. Without a support to climb, many aroids produce smaller, simpler foliage because their growth pattern defaults to trailing along the forest floor. Adding a moss pole or trellis often triggers larger, more mature leaves within a few months.

Low light and insufficient feeding can also limit leaf size. Move the plant to a brighter spot (avoiding direct sun) and feed every two to four weeks during spring and summer. Higher humidity, above 50%, also helps species like Philodendron verrucosum and Monstera siltepecana produce larger foliage.