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Monstera /mɒnsˈtɛɹə/

Common name: Monstera · Swiss cheese plant · Split-leaf philodendron

Monstera A genus of about 60 species of evergreen climbing vines in the arum family, native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. Monsteras are famous for their large, glossy leaves that develop dramatic holes and splits as they mature, an adaptation thought to let light through to lower leaves. Monstera deliciosa, the Swiss cheese plant, is both a blockbuster houseplant and, in the wild, a producer of an edible, pineapple-banana-flavored fruit.

Care summary

Sun Bright, indirect light
Water Water when the top few cm of soil dry
Soil Airy, chunky, well-draining mix
Hardiness
Mature height
Pet safe

Fun facts

  • The holes in its leaves are called fenestrations and may help light reach lower leaves in dense jungle.
  • Like other aroids, it produces a spathe-and-spadix flower, though rarely indoors.
  • It climbs trees in the wild using aerial roots that anchor to bark.

Common problems

    • Let soil dry fully between waterings
    • Use a free-draining chunky mix
    • Empty saucers after watering
    • Wipe leaves with soapy water
    • Isolate affected plants immediately
    • Move closer to bright indirect light
    • Rotate the pot every few weeks