Monstera delicosa

Common Name:

Swiss Cheese Plant

Description:

Monstera deliciosa, widely known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is an iconic tropical foliage plant prized for its dramatic, perforated leaves and bold presence. Native to Central America, this evergreen climber is especially popular as an indoor plant in Melbourne but can also be grown outdoors in sheltered, frost-free gardens. Its large, glossy green leaves develop characteristic splits and holes as the plant matures, creating a striking architectural feature. Under optimal humid conditions and plenty of indirect light, Monstera deliciosa may produce creamy-white, corn cob-like flowers followed by edible fruit with a flavour said to resemble a blend of pineapple and banana. With its vigorous growth and jungle-like feel, this plant brings a lush, exotic atmosphere to any interior or shaded outdoor space.

Form:

• Climber

• Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding (young stage indoors)

Mature Size:

• Height: 2–4 metres indoors, up to 6+ metres outdoors with support

• Width: 1.5–3 metres

Aspect:

• Part Shade

• Full Shade

• Indoors / Well lit

Flowering:

• Flowers in Summer (under ideal conditions)

Flower Colour:

• Creamy White (inflorescence with a spadix and spathe)

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Edible Fruit (when fully ripe)

• Perennial

• Suitable for Indoors

• Air Purifying

• Tropical Appearance

• Fast Growing

• Architectural Foliage

• Suitable for Climbing Support or Moss Pole

Toxicity:

• Toxic to pets (cats and dogs) and mildly toxic to humans if leaves or unripe fruit are ingested; causes irritation to mouth and throat

Companion Plants:

• Epipremnum aureum (Devil’s Ivy)

• Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ Plant)

• Calathea orbifolia

• Philodendron scandens

• Aspidistra elatior (Cast Iron Plant)