How do I care for my Swiss Cheese plant or Monstera Deliciosa?

Tropical rainforests of Central and South America.

Light and position in the home

Bright indoor light with no strong direct sunlight is best for this plant.

Foliage and flowers

The Monstera is famous for its split leaves but before the leaves grow sufficiently to split all the way through, the patterns start off as holes in the leaves. This is where this plant gets its alternative name 'swiss cheese plant' from, because the holes resemble the holes found in swiss cheese. Your plant may arrive with fewer holes and splits as it's a young plant, and these will develop as the plant grows and matures.

Temperature

Warm, ideally a constant temperature between 18-28 degrees Celcius.

Watering

When the top 2-4cm are dry, water the soil of your Monstera. This is a fairly drought-tolerant plant, so you don't need to water it all the time - every couple of weeks should suffice, but use your judgement. Water more frequently during the growing season and reduce at other times.

Did you know? 

Monstera deliciosa is also known as split-leaf philodendron (although it is not a philodendron). It's a vine, so you will notice it try to climb or trail, and over time may require some support to ensure it grows in the direction you want it to!

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs.