Monstera adansonii aka Swiss Cheese Plant

Monstera adansonii is an evergreen vine in the arum family. Gardeners know it as Swiss cheese vine or five hole plant. It comes from tropical Mexico, Central America, and South America. Its native range also includes parts of the Caribbean. In dense rain forests, it climbs trees with aerial roots. Young plants creep across the ground until they find support. As they climb, they may lose their first link to the soil.

This fast-growing plant can climb a pole or trail from a basket. Indoor plants reach about 3–8 feet [0.9–2.4 metres] tall. RHS gives a mature height up to 8.2 feet [2.5 metres]. Their spread reaches about 3.3 feet [1 metre]. Outdoor plants can reach 13 feet [4 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants records stems as long as 20 feet [6 metres]. The stems form roots that help them grip a support. The glossy green leaves have a heart shape and oval holes. These holes lie between the main veins. Wild leaves can reach 1.5 feet [0.46 metres] wide. Leaves tend to stay smaller indoors.

Flowers may appear outdoors in spring, but indoor plants seldom bloom. The flower head has a cream-white spathe and a yellowish spadix. Bees and other insects pollinate the plant. Gardeners grow it for its leaves rather than its flowers. It suits pots, hanging baskets, greenhouses, and conservatories. A moss pole or trellis lets it grow upright. Without support, its stems hang down.

Give it bright light out of direct sun, which can scorch leaves. It needs warmth, humid air, and moist soil that drains well. RHS recommends peat-free potting compost based on loam. Both RHS and NC State list a broad soil pH range. NC State favours slightly acid soil in its growing advice. Water more during growth and less in winter. RHS recommends a balanced liquid feed each month during growth. Keep it away from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F. Its listed hardiness is USDA zones 10–12 and RHS H1B. Useful Tropical Plants reports slight leaf damage after light frost.

Scale and spider mites can attack it. Other pests include mealybugs, aphids, and whiteflies. Too much water can cause root rot. Leaf spots, rust, mildew, and blight may also occur. Air flow and dry foliage help limit leaf spots. Calcium oxalate crystals make it harmful to people and pets. Eating it can cause mouth pain, vomiting, and drooling. Its sap can irritate skin and eyes; wear gloves when handling it. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known food use. It records folk uses for boils, abscesses, pain, and bites. These reports do not establish safe or effective treatment.