Swiss Cheese Plant

Monstera deliciosa     Origin: Southern Mexico and Central America

With large perforated leaves on long stalks, the Monstera deliciosa will totally transform the feel of a room. Scientists theorize that the holes of the Monstera increase its surface area for absorbing light, or could help protect it from heavy downpours in its native tropical habitat. At home, they make for interesting shadows and play with the light, adding to an urban jungle vibe.

Common Issues

Yellowing leaves: This is most likely from overwatering and/or improper drainage leading to heavy soil.
Drooping leaves: Your plant is probably thirsty. Monstera will let its foliage hang limply to let you know it's time for a drink.
Leaf curl: Most often a case of under-watering or low humidity.

Light: Monstera craves a balance of sun and shade, so indirect sunlight is best. We recommend an Eastern exposure in the home, and rotating the plant regularly to ensure even growth.

Water: Evenly water your Monstera about once a week, waiting till the soil is fairly dry before watering it again. Remember: in the jungle, this plant experiences both wet and dry seasons, and its roots need air as much as they need water.

Humidity: Monstera is a tropical understory plant that loves humidity, but it can adapt to the average humidity in your home.

Growth: Though it grows quite fast in the wild, at home, it will grow at a much more moderate pace. Monstera deliciosa are natural climbers, so giving your plant a means of support like a post or a trellis can help it reach its maximum height.

Soil: Monsteras prefer peaty, well-draining soil. Adding perlite or orchid bark to the mix will help with drainage and help you avoid over-watering issues, like root rot.

Temperature: Try to keep temperatures between 60-85°F for good growth.

Repotting: Plan on uppotting every two years in the spring. Gently pull your Monstera from its container, uppotting to a new pot that is about 3 inches larger in diameter and introducing fresh potting mix.

Extra TLC: Because the humidity level in our homes is dramatically lower than outside generally, the plant is unable to ‘breathe’ as well and less successful at tolerating direct southern or extended exposures.