Rhaphidophora Cryptanta

Rhaphidophora Cryptantha (Rhaphidophora cryptantha) is a shingling aroid from Papua New Guinea whose small, round, dark leaves press flat against a board as it climbs. Labijo ships it to US buyers as a rooted 7-inch top cutting.

What does Rhaphidophora Cryptantha look like?

In its juvenile stage the leaves are small, rounded and lie completely flat against the surface they climb, overlapping like roof shingles. They are dark green, often with a coppery or bronze cast, and the veins show paler. The plant grows straight up a board in a neat flat column rather than trailing.

It is often confused with shingling Monstera dubia, but cryptantha leaves are darker, rounder and lack the silver marbling of dubia. It sits with our other monsteras because the care is similar.

How do you care for Rhaphidophora Cryptantha?

• Light: Bright indirect light. No direct sun.
• Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches of mix are dry. Don’t let the mix stay bone dry for long.
• Humidity: 60% or higher. A terrarium, cabinet or humid room helps the leaves grip and stay flat.
• Soil: A moisture-holding but airy mix with sphagnum moss, bark and perlite.
• Temperature: 65–85°F. Keep it above 60°F.
• Pets: Toxic to cats and dogs. Like other aroids it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which irritate the mouth and stomach if chewed.

Give it a flat support from day one: a wood plank, cork slab or moss board. Keep the board slightly damp so the aerial roots attach. A round pole doesn’t work as well, because the leaves can’t lie flat against it.

What will I receive?

A rooted 7-inch top cutting, ready to put against a board. Every plant is an individual, so leaf size and pattern can vary a little.

How does Rhaphidophora Cryptantha ship?

We ship within the United States by USPS from our California warehouse. Orders leave within 1–3 business days and usually arrive 2–5 days later. Shipping is $12 for the first plant and $4 for each extra plant. Hawaii is a flat $30.

Ordering in cold weather? We can add a heat pack to the box for a small extra fee. Message us when you place your order.

If your plant arrives dead or badly damaged, tell us within 3 days of delivery and include an unboxing video. We will send a replacement.

Can I order from outside the US?

Labijo.com ships to US addresses only. If you live in another country, contact our home nursery in Indonesia through labijo.id and ask what they can send to you. Plant material crossing borders needs a phytosanitary certificate, and some countries also ask for an import permit, so they will check your country’s rules with you.