How much water does Monstera deliciosa need?

Monstera deliciosa has moderate, allow soil to dry between waterings water needs.

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Vines

Monstera deliciosa

Swiss Cheese Plant

AraceaeCentral America

At a Glance

Typevine

Habitclimbing

Foliageevergreen

Height6-10 feet indoors, 30-70 feet in nature

Width3-8 feet

Maturity2 years

Key Features

Deer Resistant

Fragrant (light)

Container Friendly

Maintenancemoderate

Overview

Monstera deliciosa is a spectacular tropical climbing vine renowned for its dramatic, deeply fenestrated leaves that develop characteristic holes and splits as the plant matures. The glossy, dark green leaves can reach up to 3 feet in length and width, starting as heart-shaped juvenile foliage before developing the iconic perforations and deep lobes that give the plant its distinctive 'Swiss cheese' appearance. This epiphytic vine produces thick, fleshy aerial roots that help it climb trees in its native habitat, and thick, segmented stems that can extend considerable lengths when given proper support. The fenestrations, or natural holes in the leaves, are thought to help the plant withstand strong winds and allow dappled sunlight to reach lower leaves. In ideal conditions, mature plants may produce cream-colored spadix flowers enclosed in a white spathe, followed by edible, pineapple-scented fruit, though flowering is extremely rare in indoor cultivation.

Native Range

Monstera deliciosa is native to the tropical rainforests of southern Mexico and Central America, ranging from Mexico through Panama. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphytic climber in the humid understory of tropical forests, using its aerial roots to ascend tall trees toward the forest canopy where it can access brighter light.

Suggested Uses

Excellent as a dramatic indoor houseplant, living room statement piece, office plant for bright spaces, conservatory specimen, or outdoor tropical garden element in frost-free climates. Perfect for modern and tropical interior design schemes, plant collections, and as a climbing specimen on moss poles or trellises.

How to Identify

Monstera deliciosa can be identified by its large, glossy, dark green leaves with distinctive holes (fenestrations) and deep splits that develop as the plant matures. Young plants have solid, heart-shaped leaves without holes, while mature specimens display the characteristic perforated foliage that gives the plant its common name. The thick, segmented stems and prominent cream-colored aerial roots are key identifying features, along with the plant's natural climbing habit when provided with vertical support. The leaves can grow exceptionally large, up to 3 feet across, and the fenestrations become more pronounced and numerous with age.

Appearance

Size & Dimensions

Height6' - 10'

Width/Spread3' - 8'

Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years

Colors

Flower Colors

cream

white

Foliage Colors

green

Bloom Information

Rarely flowers indoors; blooms seasonally in tropical climates when mature

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

Cream-colored spadix with white spathe

Foliage Description

Glossy dark green with prominent fenestrations and natural holes

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

Partial Shade

• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight

• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight

• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight

Soil Requirements

pH Range6.0 - 7.0(Neutral)

357912

Drainage

well drained

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate, allow soil to dry between waterings

Frost Tolerance

tender

Time to Maturity

2-3 years for fenestrations to develop

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Monstera deliciosa requires bright, indirect light and well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture but doesn't become waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks depending on environmental conditions and season. Provide a moss pole, trellis, or other vertical support for climbing, which encourages larger leaf development and more pronounced fenestrations. Maintain humidity levels of 40-60% and temperatures between 65-85°F for optimal growth. Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring through early fall). Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to maintain their glossy appearance and remove dust that can impede photosynthesis. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.

Pruning

Prune Monstera deliciosa in spring or early summer to control size and encourage bushier growth. Remove any yellowing, damaged, or diseased leaves at the base using clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent disease spread. Trim aerial roots that become unwieldy or unsightly, though some should be left to support the plant's climbing habit and nutrient uptake. Pinch or cut growing tips to promote branching and prevent the vine from becoming too leggy. Always wear gloves when pruning as the sap contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause skin irritation. Clean tools between cuts to maintain plant health.

Pruning Schedule

springsummer

Maintenance Level

moderate

Container Growing

✓ Suitable for container growing

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Monstera deliciosa is toxic to humans and pets if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals present in all plant parts including leaves, stems, and roots. Consumption can cause mouth pain, difficulty swallowing, excessive drooling, and digestive upset in both humans and animals. Keep away from children and pets, especially cats and dogs. The mature fruit is edible when fully ripe and the oxalate crystals have broken down, but unripe fruit is toxic and should never be consumed. Handle with gloves to avoid skin irritation from the sap.