Neighbor of the Week: Jesse "Monstera" Aleman

After 25 years in concrete construction, Jesse discovered a new creative path rooted in nature. Blending his longtime love of music with a passion for plants, he became a DJ and plant artist, launching a portable plant shop called Succs 2 B You. His inventive style and plant-forward creativity earned him the 2024 Mayor's Ball for the Arts Wild Card award for his Plant Art Exhibit at the Riverside Art Museum.

Born and raised in Casa Blanca, Jesse credits his neighborhood as the foundation of his journey. The community was the first place that embraced his DJ aspirations and provided positive role models that shaped his path. Through his creative ventures in plants and art, Jesse has brought unique perspectives to Riverside's creative scene. Plants have become more than a business for him; they've been therapeutic, helping with anxiety. All who know him—or even just work near him—say he fills every space with contagious joy. Whether spinning records or arranging greenery, Jesse brings a playful, vibrant energy to Riverside while proudly representing where he came from.

What does Riverside mean to you? For me—if I were a tree—Riverside would be my trunk and roots.

What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? I need to get back into it, so maybe twice a month. My legs start hurting quick!

What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Antone’s Italian Eatery, Capone’s Pizza, Johnny Burgers, and Tempol Del Sol.

What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? Riverside Art Museum.

What is your favorite Riverside small business? Vixen & Beard—Men’s apparel.

What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Casa Blanca Home of Neighborly Services.

The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? Maybe on a Thursday during an ArtsWalk.

What is your go-to sandwich in town? The Uncle Ed Meatball Sandwich at Antone’s!

What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? Saturday morning starts with the "Kitchen Sink" omelette at The Soup Shoppe. Then it’s off to the Van Buren Swap Meet to hunt for plants, pots, and vinyl records. We’ll hit Elements Record Store for more vinyl and art supplies, then take a stroll through the UCR Botanical Garden to see what’s blooming. After that, it’s Villegas Park to enjoy some Johnny’s Burgers or maybe In-N-Out. I like to walk through the Raincross District, stop by the Food Lab, and head up Main Street for a Casey’s Cupcake. If there’s a new exhibit at the Riverside Art Museum, I’ll check that out too. I might wrap up the night grilling some amazing carne asada from our favorite carnicería—or we’ll take the family to catch a movie at the Van Buren Drive-In. Riversiderrrrsss!

What is your favorite spot for a date night? Tio’s Tacos for a shrimp cocktail and to check out all the cool art and cacti.

Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Tyler Mall.

What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? The Club Metro! I got to see Casa Blanca USA Boxing matches there when I was young, but I never got to DJ and play music.

If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? Goosfraba!!

Finally, tell us what you’re working on right now and how our readers can support your efforts—whether it’s a project, passion, or cause close to your heart! I’ve been growing and working with plants for seven years, and it’s brought so much joy back into my life. Plants brought love and growth to my home and my family. Now I teach others about the health benefits of having plants in our lives. I lead fun, hands-on workshops and activities for everyone—from kids to senior adults.

Neighbor of the Week is our way of celebrating the hidden heroes of Riverside—those who go above and beyond to make our community stronger, kinder, and more vibrant. We believe every remarkable Riversider deserves their story told. Know someone who’s making a difference? Nominate a Neighbor of the Week