M. I. kerchoveana is much better known and has pale green leaves with distinct dark blotches which give it the common name of rabbit’s tracks. Another common name is prayer plant, because of the plant’s peculiar habit of folding its leaves together like hands in prayer as darkness descends: If these arc eared for in the same way as the first-mentioned maranta they should not be too much trouble. Provided a heated propagator is available both can be increased by means of cuttings taken at almostany rime; the top section of the plant with some three leaves attached will give the best results.

Leaves will be improved by periodic cleaning with a soft sponge, using either water or one of the proprietary leaf-cleaning agents. Avoid using chemicals too frequently and at all costs ensure that soft new leaves at the top of the plant are not treated, as they are very easily damaged. Irreparable damage may also be caused to young leaves by handling them before they unfold. When the compost in the pot becomes too wet plants will sometimes exude droplets of water from the edges of leaves, an indication that the amount of water given should be reduced. The aerial roots present problems and one is often advised that these should be removed. Unless there is an excessive number of roots it is far better to direct the tips into the soil when they are long enough, and to tie the roots in to the stem of the plant to keep them tidy.

There are any number of inferior types of this particular variety available hut, if there is a choice, those with pale grey-green foliage should he selected as they make much the most superior plants. If the recommended temperature is provided they are not especially difficult, but in low temperatures success is all but impossible. Light shade, moist surroundings and a peaty compost would he other recommendations, also weak liquid fertiliser while they are growing. Propagate from top cuttings about 6 in. in length with two or three firm leaves attached.

For the garden-room owner who can afford such high temperatures this could well prove to be a most rewarding plant, hut it would only lead to frustrating failure if one were to attempt growing them at lower temperatures, particularly in winter. Although the fbliagc is not particularly attractive, the pendulous pink flowers have show-stopping qualities as the naive suggests.

Besides the Monstera deliciosa (syn. Philodendron pertusum) described above there is another, M. pertusa borsigiana, which has much smaller leaves and more upright habit of growth, and is preferred where space is limited. Both plants will produce arum-type flowers when they are a few years old ; these have an exotic attraction and remain colourful for about four days. Flowers are later followed by the fruit which is edible and must be left on the plant to become thoroughly ripe before eating.

A light window is required indoors, or a lightly shaded position in the garden room, and the temperature needs to be in the region of 16C. (60F.). Keep well fed and well watered ; any drying out will quickly result in the plants flagging and in time shedding their lower leaves. Most important, however, is to keep a watchful eye for whitefly on the undersides of the leaves and to take precautions as soon as they are noticed. The best method of increasing plants is by means of cuttings taken with a pair of leaves and a piece of stem; given reasonable treatment and conditions they root very easily

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