Monstera deliciosa, commonly known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a popular houseplant admired for its strikingly large, glossy, and fenestrated leaves. Native to the tropical rainforests of Central America, this plant has become a staple in homes and offices around the world due to its unique appearance and relatively easy care requirements.
Monstera deliciosa is known for its distinctive leaves, which can grow up to three feet long and are characterized by deep splits and perforations. These holes and splits are believed to help the plant withstand heavy rainfall and strong winds in its native habitat. The plant can grow quite large, often reaching heights of 10 to 15 feet indoors with proper care.
Botanical Overview
| Common Names | Split-leaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant, windowleaf, ceriman |
| Botanical Name | Monstera deliciosa |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type | Vine |
| Mature Size | 3 -15 ft. tall, 3-8 ft. wide |
| Sun Exposure | Partial |
| Soil Type | Well-drained |
| Soil pH | Acidic, neutral |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Flower Color | White |
| Hardiness Zones | 10-12 (USDA) |
| Native Area | Central America |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans,1 cats, and dogs2 |
Types of Monstera Plants
Monstera plants are a diverse and fascinating genus within the Araceae family. While Monstera deliciosa is the most well-known, there are several other species and varieties that plant enthusiasts may find equally captivating. Here’s a closer look at some popular types of Monstera plants:
1. Monstera deliciosa
Common Names: Mexican breadfruit, split-leaf philodendron, and Swiss cheese plant
- Description: This is the most iconic Monstera species, known for its large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves with deep splits and holes. It’s a robust climber that can grow very large indoors and outdoors in suitable climates.
2. Monstera adansonii
Common Names: Adanson’s monstera, Swiss cheese vine
- Description: Monstera adansonii has smaller, more delicate leaves than M. deliciosa, with more frequent and elongated holes. It’s a vining plant that can be trained to climb or trail, making it ideal for hanging baskets and trellises.
3. Monstera obliqua
Common Names: Obliqua monstera
- Description: This species is rare and often confused with M. adansonii. M. obliqua has extremely thin, delicate leaves with large perforations that can sometimes comprise more than 90% of the leaf surface. It’s a collector’s item due to its rarity and distinct appearance.
4. Monstera siltepecana
Common Names: Silver Monstera
- Description: Known for its silvery sheen and dark green veins, M. siltepecana starts with lance-shaped leaves that are unfenestrated but develop splits as the plant matures. It’s a climbing species that thrives with support.
5. Monstera pinnatipartita
Common Names: Pinnatipartita monstera
- Description: This species features deeply pinnatifid leaves that resemble those of a palm. It starts with smaller, simpler leaves that become more segmented and fenestrated as the plant matures and climbs.
6. Monstera dubia
Common Names: Shingle Plant
- Description: M. dubia has small, heart-shaped leaves that lie flat against the surface they climb, resembling shingles on a roof. In its juvenile form, it looks quite different from the mature form, which develops fenestrations and becomes more typical of Monstera species.
7. Monstera Standleyana
Common Names: Standley’s Monstera
- Description: This species has elongated, lance-shaped leaves that are often variegated with white or cream streaks. It’s a compact, non-climbing Monstera that adds a unique aesthetic to any plant collection.
8. Monstera epipremnoides
Common Names: Epipremnoides monstera
- Description: Similar to M. adansonii, but with larger, thicker leaves and more pronounced fenestrations. This plant can grow quite large and is prized for its bold, dramatic foliage.
Monstera Deliciosa Care Guide
Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a popular and relatively easy-to-care-for houseplant. Its dramatic, fenestrated leaves and robust growth make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. Here is a comprehensive care guide to help you keep your Monstera deliciosa healthy and thriving.
Light Requirements
Monstera deliciosa thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but prolonged exposure to intense direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. In low light conditions, the plant will grow more slowly and may develop smaller leaves with fewer fenestrations.
- Optimal Light: Bright, indirect light.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight and deep shade.
Watering
For your Monstera deliciosa to stay healthy, proper watering is essential. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and become dry.
- Watering Schedule: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Method: Water thoroughly until it drains out of the bottom of the pot. To keep the plant out of the water, empty the saucer.
Humidity
Monstera deliciosa prefers a humid environment, similar to its native tropical habitat. While it can adapt to average household humidity levels, increasing humidity will promote healthier growth and prevent leaf edges from browning.
- Ideal Humidity: 60-80%.
- Tips to Increase Humidity: Use a humidifier, place a tray of water near the plant, or mist the leaves regularly.
Temperature
Monstera deliciosa prefers warm temperatures and can suffer from cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
- Ideal Temperature Range: 65-85°F (18-29°C).
- Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and sudden temperature changes.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is essential to prevent root rot and ensure proper nutrient uptake.
- Recommended Soil: A mix of peat-based potting soil with perlite or orchid bark for added aeration and drainage.
- Soil pH: slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-7.0).
Fertilization
Regular feeding will support the vigorous growth of your Monstera deliciosa.
- Fertilizer Type: Balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Frequency: Once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). As development slows in the fall and winter, cut back on feeding.
Pruning and training
Pruning helps manage the size of your monstera and encourages bushier growth. It can also be trained to climb, mimicking its natural growth habit.
- Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged leaves and trim back overgrown stems as needed. Just above a leaf node, prune to promote new growth.
- Training: Use a moss pole or trellis to support climbing. As the stems grow, gently connect them to the support framework.
Repotting
Repotting your Monstera deliciosa every 1-2 years will provide fresh soil and more room for growth.
- When to Repot: When the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its pot.
- Pot Size: Choose a pot 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Propagation
Monstera deliciosa can be easily propagated through stem cuttings.
- Method: Cut a stem just below a node with a few leaves attached. Immerse the cutting in either water or potting mix that drains properly.
- Rooting: Roots will develop in a few weeks. Once the roots are a few inches long, transplant the cutting into a pot with soil.
With proper care, Monstera deliciosa can become a stunning centerpiece in your home. By providing the right light, water, humidity, and nutrients, you can ensure that your Swiss cheese plant thrives and continues to produce its iconic, beautiful leaves. Whether you’re a novice plant parent or an experienced gardener, Monstera deliciosa is a rewarding plant to grow and enjoy.
Common Pests, Diseases and Problem
Despite being a relatively hardy and low-maintenance plant, Monstera deliciosa can still encounter various pests, diseases, and other problems. Identifying and addressing these issues promptly can help ensure the health and vitality of your plant.
Common Pests
Spider Mites
- Symptoms: Tiny, web-like structures on the undersides of leaves; speckled or yellowing leaves.
- Treatment: Increase humidity around the plant, rinse leaves with water, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs
- Symptoms: white, cottony masses on leaves and stems; sticky residue (honeydew) on the plant.
- Treatment: Wipe off bugs with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly inspect and treat as needed.
Scale Insects
- Symptoms: brown or black bumps on stems and leaves; sticky residue (honeydew) on the plant.
- Treatment: Manually remove scales with a cloth or sponge soaked in soapy water, and use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Thrips
- Symptoms: silver or bronze streaks on leaves; tiny black droppings.
- Treatment: Rinse the plant with water, use sticky traps, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Common Diseases
Root Rot
- Causes: overwatering or poor drainage.
- Symptoms: yellowing leaves, mushy or blackened roots, wilting despite moist soil.
- Treatment: Remove affected parts of the root system, repot in fresh, well-draining soil, and adjust watering habits.
Leaf Spot
- Causes: fungal or bacterial infections.
- Symptoms: Spots on leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo, that are brown or black.
- Treatment: Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply a suitable fungicide.
Powdery Mildew
- Causes: fungal infection.
- Symptoms: Spots of white powder on stems and leaves.
- Treatment: Increase air circulation, reduce humidity, avoid overhead watering, and use a fungicidal spray.
Common Problems
Yellowing Leaves
- Causes: overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or inadequate light.
- Treatment: Check the watering schedule, ensure proper drainage, provide balanced fertilizer, and adjust light conditions.
Browning Leaf Edges
- Causes: low humidity, underwatering, or excessive fertilizer.
- Treatment: Increase humidity, ensure consistent watering, and avoid overfertilizing.
Leggy Growth
- Causes: insufficient light.
- Treatment: Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect light, or supplement with grow lights if necessary.
Leaf Curling
- Causes: underwatering, low humidity, or temperature stress.
- Treatment: Ensure consistent watering, increase humidity, and avoid exposing the plant to drafts or temperature extremes.
No Fenestrations (Holes) in Leaves
- Causes: immaturity of the plant, insufficient light, or lack of nutrients.
- Treatment: Provide bright, indirect light, ensure proper feeding with a balanced fertilizer, and allow time for the plant to mature.
FAQ
Where to buy monstera deliciosa?
Monstera deliciosa plants can be bought at local nurseries, specialty plant shops, home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s, and online retailers such as Amazon, Etsy, and dedicated plant websites like The Sill and Bloomscape. You can also check local plant sales and swaps for unique options.