Monstera epipremnoides aka Swiss Cheese Plant

Monstera epipremnoides is an evergreen climbing vine in the arum family, Araceae. Its native range runs from Costa Rica to Panama. It grows in wet tropical forests, including Costa Rica's mountain forests. There, it climbs trees beneath the forest canopy. It is an epiphyte, using other plants for support. Its common name, Swiss cheese plant, refers to its leaf holes.

Indoors, this vine reaches 6–8 feet [1.8–2.4 metres] tall. Plants in forest settings can reach 13 feet [4 metres]. Thick, long stems sprawl and grip supports with aerial roots. The leaves grow alternately in two rows on long stalks. Each leaf is simple, glossy, leathery, and light green. Leaves measure about 1–2 feet [0.3–0.6 metres] long. Their width can reach about 1.1 feet [0.33 metres]. Shapes range from heart-shaped to oblong or rounded. Young leaves often have smooth, unbroken edges and no holes. As leaves age, holes form within the blade. Some openings reach the edge, making the leaf pinnatifid.

Small greenish-white flowers appear in spring and summer. They crowd a spadix, with a spathe around it. A long flower stalk holds this structure above its base. The spathe reaches about 1.3 feet [0.4 metres] tall. The spadix reaches about 0.6 feet [0.19 metres] long. Fruits form a close cluster of fragrant white berries. Indoor plants seldom bear fruit. The plant is scarce in trade and attracts collectors. Its large, cut leaves give it value as a container houseplant.

Give it bright, indirect light or light filtered through foliage. Direct sun can scorch its leaves. It needs high humidity and moist soil that drains well. The soil should contain plenty of organic matter and be acidic. It prefers temperatures of 65–80°F and does not tolerate drafts. The listed outdoor hardiness range spans USDA zones 9a–11b. Stem cuttings offer a way to grow new plants. Pinching stem tips helps limit growth. Dust can hinder photosynthesis, so wipe leaves with a soft cloth.

Watch for whiteflies, red spider mites, mealybugs, and fern scale. Yellow leaves may signal too much or too little water. Calcium oxalate crystals make this plant toxic to people and pets. Swallowing it can cause mouth, throat, and stomach pain. Other effects include swelling, drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing. Sap and leaves can irritate skin; wear gloves when handling them. Only fully ripe fruit is excepted from the source's toxicity warning.