Also known as Balazo · Breadfruit Vine · Ceriman
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a popular houseplant known for its large, split, and holey leaves, adding a tropical vibe to indoor spaces.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C. Avoid cold drafts.
Indoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause oral irritation if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during the winter months when the plant's growth slows down.
Overwatering is a common issue; err on the side of underwatering.
Prune to control size, shape, and to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. Cut back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Pruning can also be done to propagate new plants from cuttings.
Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts just above a leaf node.
Propagate through stem cuttings or by air layering. Take cuttings of 15-20 cm with at least one node and place them in water or moist potting mix. Ensure cuttings have aerial roots for better success.
New plants can also be divided from the base.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, typically in the spring. Choose a pot that is 5-10 cm larger in diameter than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Fresh soil provides essential nutrients and allows for continued root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)
Where Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Monstera |
| Species | Monstera deliciosa |
Similar in genus Monstera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
