Monstera deliciosa aka Monstera

Monstera deliciosa, known as the Swiss cheese plant or split-leaf philodendron, belongs to the arum family, Araceae. Despite its common name, it is not a true philodendron. It grows wild from southern Mexico through Guatemala to Costa Rica and Panama. There it lives in hot, humid forests, including moist mountain forests up to about 1,500 metres. Other names include ceriman, Mexican breadfruit and hurricane plant.

This evergreen climber starts life rooted in the soil. Once it reaches a sturdy tree, it climbs and becomes epiphytic. In the wild it can reach 70 feet (21 m) or more. Indoors it usually stays at 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 m). Under glass it may reach 13 to 26 feet (4 to 8 m), with a spread of 5 to 8 feet (1.5 to 2.5 m). The thick green stems carry long, cord-like aerial roots. These roots take hold wherever they touch the ground. Without a pole or trellis, the plant tends to sprawl sideways.

The glossy, deep green leaves are heart-shaped and can grow 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 0.9 m) long. Mature leaves develop holes and deep cuts that reach the margin. Young leaves are small and mostly whole. Stiff stalks up to 3 feet (0.9 m) long hold the blades. Mature plants produce a creamy-white spathe up to 1 foot (0.3 m) long around a thick spadix. Outdoors it flowers from January to April. The fruit is a cylindrical cluster of berries under green hexagonal scales. It takes about a year to ripen. The scales drop away when the fruit is ready. Plants rarely flower or fruit indoors.

This tropical plant is hardy only in USDA zones 10 to 12. Frost damages the leaves at around 32°F (0°C). As a houseplant it wants bright light without strong direct sun, plus warmth and high humidity. A rich, well-drained, peat-free potting mix suits it. Water thoroughly in the growing season, then let the top layer dry. Give less water from autumn through winter. Outdoors in warm regions it grows best in light shade. Strong sun can scorch the leaves. It tolerates sandy and chalky soils but not waterlogging. It grows fast and can be propagated by stem cuttings or layering.

Gardeners value it as a bold specimen plant for containers and tropical gardens. In Guatemala, people weave the long aerial roots into baskets and furniture. Left unchecked outdoors, the vine can climb trees and take over a large area. Regular pruning keeps it in bounds.

Pest problems are few, and the plant is generally free of disease. Watch for scale insects, mealybugs, aphids, thrips and red spider mite. All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals. These irritate the mouth and throat if chewed, and the sap can irritate skin. The plant is toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Signs include drooling, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Only the fully ripe fruit is edible. It tastes like a blend of banana and pineapple. People eat it fresh or use it in drinks, jams and ice cream. Unripe fruit causes irritation, and some people are allergic to the ripe fruit.