Swiss Cheese Plant
Monstera deliciosa
Also listed as Philodendron pertusum, Tornelia fragrans
Also known as Mexican Breadfruit, Fruit Salad Plant, Ceriman
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A tropical climbing vine prized for its large, deeply lobed leaves that develop characteristic holes as the plant matures. It thrives as a houseplant in bright indirect light and is an excellent choice for adding dramatic foliage to indoor spaces.
Why grow it
Monstera deliciosa offers larger, more dramatic foliage than most other commonly grown houseplants, with fenestration (leaf holes) that develops naturally as the plant matures rather than being a cultivar trait. Unlike some climbing aroids, it tolerates lower light conditions reasonably well, making it adaptable to average indoor environments. The plant's vigorous growth habit and climbing capacity suit vertical gardening arrangements where space is limited horizontally.
Watch out for
This plant requires sturdy support or climbing structures as it can become quite large and heavy over time, potentially straining weak trellises or weak attachment points. Aerial roots that emerge during growth can adhere to walls or furniture if not actively managed or directed toward a moss pole or similar substrate. Indoor specimens may develop fewer fenestrations if grown in consistently low light, though the plant will still survive.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Araceae
Native Range
Central America, Mexico
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Climber
Vines that climb the layers above on a support.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A tropical climbing vine prized for its large, deeply lobed leaves that develop characteristic holes as the plant matures. It thrives as a houseplant in bright indirect light and is an excellent choice for adding dramatic foliage to indoor spaces.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Swiss Cheese Plant grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Monstera deliciosa offers larger, more dramatic foliage than most other commonly grown houseplants, with fenestration (leaf holes) that develops naturally as the plant matures rather than being a cultivar trait. Unlike some climbing aroids, it tolerates lower light conditions reasonably well, making it adaptable to average indoor environments. The plant's vigorous growth habit and climbing capacity suit vertical gardening arrangements where space is limited horizontally.
Watch out for
This plant requires sturdy support or climbing structures as it can become quite large and heavy over time, potentially straining weak trellises or weak attachment points. Aerial roots that emerge during growth can adhere to walls or furniture if not actively managed or directed toward a moss pole or similar substrate. Indoor specimens may develop fewer fenestrations if grown in consistently low light, though the plant will still survive.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Araceae
Native Range
Central America, Mexico
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Climber
Vines that climb the layers above on a support.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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