Climbs up to 20 metres in nature
In tropical rainforests the Monstera climbs up large trees with aerial roots in search of sunlight. It can reach up to 20 metres.
Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant)
Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant)
All you need to know about the Monstera, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant. Species, care, ideal location, and our XXL Monstera collection all in one place.
The most important thing in 30 seconds
- The Monstera (Monstera Deliciosa) is a tropical climbing plant from Central America with characteristic holes in its leaves
- Prefers a bright spot with indirect sunlight and high humidity
- Toxic to dogs and cats due to oxalate crystals, so place out of reach of pets
- Grows as a climbing plant and needs a moss pole for beautiful growth
- Air-purifying according to the NASA Clean Air Study, ideal for living and workspaces
- Repot every 2 to 3 years in spring, fertilize during the growing season for lush growth
About this Monstera planting guide
Did you know?
Three facts about the Monstera that you may not have known yet.
Has edible fruit
The Monstera Deliciosa owes its name to its deliciously flavoured fruit, reminiscent of a cross between banana and pineapple. In the wild they ripen fully, indoors rarely.
Holes protect against wind
The characteristic holes in the leaves protect the plant from storm winds in its natural habitat by letting the wind pass through.
Monstera types and differences
Monstera Deliciosa (80 to 150 cm)
The classic Swiss cheese plant with large, split leaves. The most popular Monstera, with deep slits and holes in mature leaves.
Monstera Adansonii (50 to 100 cm)
The smaller Monkey Mask variety with narrower, round leaves full of holes. More compact than the Deliciosa and perfect for hanging pots or a support.
Monstera Variegata (60 to 120 cm)
The rare variegata with white or cream markings on the leaves. A unique collector's plant that needs a little more light than its green sisters.
Top 5 Monstera
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Monstera care step by step
Follow these steps to keep your Monstera healthy.
- 1
Watergift
Water the Monstera moderately. Let the top 2 to 3 centimetres of compost dry out between waterings. Once a week in the growing season, once every 10 to 14 days in winter. Avoid waterlogging, as the roots rot quickly.
- 2
Light and location
The Monstera likes a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. A spot by an east or west window is ideal. In shade it grows more slowly and forms fewer holes.
- 3
Bemesting
Feed the Monstera every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season, from March to September, with liquid houseplant food. In winter the plant needs no extra feed. Use a balanced feed for green plants.
- 4
Verpotten
Repot your Monstera every 2 to 3 years in spring into a pot 3 to 5 centimetres wider. Use airy houseplant compost and ensure good drainage. Add a moss pole for support at the same time.
- 5
Humidity and leaf care
The Monstera likes a humid environment. Mist the leaves regularly with lukewarm water or place the plant on a tray of pebbles and water. Wipe the large leaves clean with a damp cloth weekly to remove dust and boost photosynthesis.
Frequently asked questions about the Monstera
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Monstera.
How often should I water my Monstera?
A Monstera wants water once a week in spring and summer and once every 10 to 14 days in autumn and winter. Only water when the top 2 to 3 centimetres of compost feel dry. Avoid waterlogging, as it is the biggest cause of root rot.
Is the Monstera toxic to dogs and cats?
Yes, the Monstera is toxic to pets. The plant contains oxalate crystals that can cause irritation, drooling and vomiting in dogs and cats. Place the Monstera somewhere your pets cannot reach, or choose a pet-friendly palm as an alternative.
What is the difference between Monstera Deliciosa and Adansonii?
The Deliciosa has large, broad leaves with deep incisions and can reach up to 3 metres indoors. The Adansonii is smaller with narrower, oval leaves full of true holes. The Adansonii stays more compact and is ideal for hanging pots, while the Deliciosa needs more space and climbs a moss pole.
How long does a Monstera live?
With good care a Monstera can live 20 to 40 years as a houseplant. In the wild the plants live even longer. Regular repotting, enough light and correct watering keep the plant healthy and vigorous for decades.
Why is my Monstera getting brown leaves?
Brown leaves on a Monstera usually indicate too little humidity or irregular watering. Brown edges point to dry air, brown patches to too much water or sunburn. Raise humidity by misting and keep watering consistent.
Can a Monstera stand in the shade?
A Monstera tolerates partial shade, but then grows more slowly and develops fewer holes in its leaves. For nicely split foliage the plant needs indirect sunlight. Avoid deep shade and direct midday sun; neither is ideal for a healthy Monstera.
Hoe verpot ik mijn Monstera?
Repot your Monstera in spring when the roots come out of the pot. Choose a pot 3 to 5 centimetres larger in diameter with drainage holes. Use airy houseplant compost and add a moss pole as a climbing support straight away. Do not give extra water in the first week after repotting.
Which size Monstera fits my space?
For small spaces and desks choose a Monstera Adansonii of 50 to 80 cm. For living rooms a Deliciosa of 100 to 150 cm works beautifully. If you have high ceilings, an XXL Monstera of up to 2 to 3 metres can become a real eye-catcher in any room.
Plant concepts explained
- Araceae
- The scientific family name of all arum plants, including Monstera, Philodendron and Anthurium.
- Fenestratie
- The formation of natural holes or slits in the Monstera's leaves. It occurs on mature plants with enough light.
- Luchtwortels
- Roots that grow above ground and help the Monstera climb trees or moss poles. They also absorb moisture from the air.
- Variegata
- A cultivar with white, yellow or cream spots or stripes on the leaves caused by a chlorophyll variation.
- Mosstok
- An upright moss-covered pole that the Monstera can climb with its aerial roots, just as it does in its natural habitat.
- Epifyt
- A plant that grows on another plant or tree without parasitising it. In nature the Monstera often starts as a hemi-epiphyte.
Resources and further reading
-
Kew Gardens
Scientific description of the Monstera genus
-
Missouri Botanical Garden
Care information for Monstera Deliciosa
-
Wikipedia
General encyclopedia information about Monstera
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