Family: Araceae
Common Name: Swiss Cheese Plant, Monstera, Mexican Breadfruit, Delicious Monster
Botanical name: Monstera Deliciosa
This must-have iconic houseplant (better known and as the Swiss Cheese Plant) is surprisingly easy to love and care for! However, make sure you have plenty of room for this unassuming green beauty -- it will grow and grow some more -- and in a few years, you will be thinking, “How did you get taller than I am?” If your Monstera is still young and small, use stakes to support and shape this gorgeous Monstera as it grows. Also, keep these large leaves clean to allow photosynthesis to work its magic! If the Monstera deliciosa gets enough indirect light, it will produce fenestrations (natural holes and openings in the leaves) after the first five or six leaves have appeared. Soon after, you will have the massive Monstera leaves that have taken over the fashion and design world.
Light
These indoor plants can handle low light, but if you want them to grow faster and produce larger leaves, provide medium to bright indirect light. In a north- or east-facing window, you can place them close to access more sun, or you can keep them out of reach of direct light in a south- or west-facing window. (Learn more about light requirements for indoor plants)
Water
Monstera loves a good soaking after the soil has almost completely dried out. Water more often during the warmer months while growing, and reduce watering during the winter months, letting the soil almost completely dry out between watering. If your Swiss Cheese Plant receives bright indirect light and is stationed in an area with high temperatures, you will have to water the soil more frequently!
Soil
You may need to transplant your Monstera deliciosa every year or so, depending on how fast it grows. We recommend using a soil mixture that is rich in organic matter, has good drainage, and is light and loose. Most bagged potting soil will be fine, but avoid potting mixes that contain moisture retaining crystals, and they can keep the soil wet for long periods, which can cause root damage. Be adventurous and learn how to create your own universal potting soil mixture!
Temperature
The Monstera will grow in most household temperatures, but a temperature between 65-85℉ is ideal. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50℉, but the cold temperature will stop growth.
Humidity
All species in the Monstera genus benefit from higher humidity levels. The best way to increase humidity is to add a humidifier to your room. Trays filled with pebbles and water can help increase the humidity immediately around your plants or try grouping your indoor plants closer together. Learn how to increase humidity for your houseplants!
Fertilizer
These houseplants love to be fertilized during their active growing season, so be sure to use either ¼-diluted fish emulsion with iron or ¼-diluted complete liquid fertilizer twice a month. Another option is to top-dress your plants in the spring with compost (like worm castings). This will slowly release nutrients to the roots throughout the growing season. (Learn more about fertilizing indoor plants)
Growth Rate
Monstera once they are established are fast growers. Monstera deliciosa can reach dizzying heights up to 12+ feet or more indoors when given the right conditions. Their leaves can reach 3’ in width!
Pet Friend or Foe
All species of Monstera are toxic to pets, FOE!
Pro Tips
- Rotate your Monstera to promote a full, balanced indoor plant.
- When you are trimming the houseplant, cut under the node (swollen nodule where the leaves and aerial roots form) in order to propagate a new plant!
- Always check the leaves (top and bottom) during your care sessions. Check for unwanted guests (pests and diseases).
- Use a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter when re-potting your Monstera.
- Use a sturdy stake when staking up your Monstera deliciosa as the foliage and stems can become heavy.
- Learn what you should do and not do to your indoor plants!
- Monsteras have deep roots so do not transplant them into shallow containers.