Monstera deliciosa (F)
Swiss cheese plant
M. deliciosa is an evergreen shrub to 5m or more, climbing by aerial roots, with heart-shaped, pinnatisect and often perforated, glossy deep green leaves to 90cm; flower spathes 30cm, white, followed by cone-like cream fruit
Other common names
cerimancustard plant
see morefruit salad plant
Indian ivy
Mexican breadfruit
monstera
Synonyms
Philodendron pertusum
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | Cream | |
| Autumn | Green | Cream | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Araceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Climbing
- Potentially harmful
- Ingestion may cause severe discomfort, skin and eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Monstera are evergreen climbing shrubs with aerial roots, and usually ovate leaves which are often pinnately cut or lobed; arum-like flowerheads with white spathes arise from the leaf axils on mature plants
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mexico to Panama
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow outdoors in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade in a sheltered frost-free area. Grow under glass in loam-based compost in bright indirect light with moderate to high humidity
Propagation
Propagate by seed, root tip or leaf cuttings or by layering in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Sub-tropical
- Patio and container plants
- Low Maintenance
Pruning
Pests
May be attacked by glasshouse red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects under glass
Diseases
Generally disease free
Get involved
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