Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa
Swiss cheese plant
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Description
Monstera deliciosa is a lush, easygoing tropical climber known for its dramatic, split and fenestrated leaves. Give it bright, indirect light, a chunky potting mix, and something to climb, and it will reward you with fast growth and bold, jungle vibes. It’s forgiving for beginners yet stunning enough for collectors.
Common Names
Swiss cheese plantSplit-leaf philodendronCerimanMexican breadfruitFruit salad plantHurricane plant
Context
nativeRegion
Tropical rainforests from southern Mexico to Panama.
usdaZones
USDA 10–12 outdoors (sheltered, frost-free).
companionPlants
Philodendron hederaceum, Epipremnum aureum (Pothos), Spathiphyllum (Peace lily), Calathea (Goeppertia) species, Ficus elastica
culturalUses
Highly valued as an ornamental indoors and in tropical landscapes; iconic foliage used in floristry and décor. In its native range, the ripe fruit (ceriman) is eaten; unripe fruit is irritating.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light is ideal; tolerates medium shade. Avoid harsh midday sun. More light encourages leaf fenestrations.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) of soil is dry. Keep evenly moist in the growing season; reduce in winter. Do not let it sit in water.
SoilChunky, well-draining aroid mix (peat/coir + perlite/pumice + orchid bark). Slightly acidic to neutral pH. Pot with drainage.
FertilizerFeed monthly in spring–summer with a balanced fertilizer at half strength or use a slow‑release formula. Little to none in winter.
HumidityPrefers 50–70%+. Tolerates average indoor levels; humidifier or pebble tray helps in dry air.
TemperatureBest at 65–85°F (18–29°C). Protect from drafts; avoid temps below 55°F (13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen hemiepiphytic climber; juveniles creep, adults climb with aerial roots. Benefits from a moss pole or trellis.
Mature SizeIndoors 6–10 ft (1.8–3 m) tall and 3–6 ft wide; outdoors vines can exceed 20 ft (6+ m). Leaves up to 2–3 ft (60–90 cm).
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm, bright conditions.
BloomingArum-type spadix with spathe; rarely blooms indoors. Fruit is edible when fully ripe and can take up to a year to mature.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler, lower-light winter months.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings with at least one node, Air layering, Division of offshoots
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune to control size and shape, remove yellowed leaves, and cut back leggy stems just above a node. Train and tie to support.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years when rootbound or when mix breaks down. Increase pot size slightly and refresh with chunky mix; add sturdy support.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and thrips. Overwatering can cause root rot; occasional bacterial/fungal leaf spots possible.
ToxicityToxic to pets and people if chewed (insoluble calcium oxalates) causing mouth irritation. Unripe fruit is also irritating.