Monstera deliciosa

Common Name:
Fruit Salad Plant

Description:
Monstera deliciosa, commonly known as the Fruit Salad Plant, is a bold, fast-growing tropical species adored for its iconic, deeply lobed and perforated foliage. Native to the rainforests of Central America, it earns its name from the sweet, pineapple-like flavour of its rare edible fruit. In Melbourne, the Fruit Salad Plant is primarily grown for its stunning ornamental leaves, which develop dramatic holes and splits as the plant matures, creating a lush, sculptural statement in homes, offices, or shaded outdoor spaces. Thriving in bright, indirect light and warm, humid conditions, it prefers well-drained soil and occasional watering, with more during the growing season. Indoors, it may be trained to climb using a moss pole, mimicking its natural growth habit. While flowering and fruiting are rare in cultivation, the foliage alone makes it a standout. Its low-maintenance nature and bold jungle aesthetic make it a favourite for both beginner and experienced plant lovers.

Form:

• Shrub - Large

• Climber

• Indoor Foliage Plant

Mature Size:

• Height: 2–4 metres (indoors or in pots)

• Height: Up to 6 metres (outdoors in tropical conditions)

• Width: 1–2 metres

Aspect:

• Part Shade

• Indoors / Well lit

Flowering:

• Flowers in Summer (rare indoors)

Flower Colour:

• White (spathe with central spadix – rarely seen in cultivation)

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Suitable for Indoors

• Perennial

• Air-purifying qualities

• Edible Fruit (only when fully ripe)

• Low Maintenance

• Climbing Habit (benefits from a moss pole or support)

Toxicity:

• Toxic to humans if unripe fruit or leaves are ingested (contains oxalates)

• Toxic to cats and dogs (can cause oral irritation, vomiting, drooling if ingested)

Companion Plants:

• Philodendron selloum ‘Hope’

• Alocasia ‘Wentii’

• Epipremnum aureum (Pothos)

• Calathea orbifolia

• Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ Plant)