The iconic split-leaf houseplant — big, glossy, holey foliage that turns any bright corner into a jungle. Easy-going indoors and dramatic at scale.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 3 m tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Swiss Cheese Plant
Botanically, Monstera deliciosa is a fast-growing indoor plant in the Araceae family. It reaches around 3 m tall at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Plant suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Swiss Cheese Plant provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Swiss Cheese Plant does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Swiss Cheese Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Swiss Cheese Plant in the garden
Swiss Cheese Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Swiss Cheese Plant with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and tropical climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
