Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)
The hole plant, also known as the Monstera Deliciosa, is more popular than ever. Who doesn't like the hole plant? With its large round leaves, the hole plant gives an extra stylistic boost to any living room! The hole plant, also known as the Monstera Deliciosa, is more popul...
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Everything you need to know about the Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)
The Monstera, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a striking and hugely popular houseplant that owes its name to the unique holes and slits in its leaves. This tropical plant adds an exotic touch to any home and is known for its lush, climbing growth. The Monstera is an easy houseplant that asks for very little care, which makes it ideal for beginners and seasoned plant lovers alike.
Where the Monstera comes from
The Monstera is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. In the wild it grows in the shade of larger trees, which means that at home it prefers a spot with indirect light too.
How big does a Monstera get?
The Swiss cheese plant is a fast grower and can get quite large, depending on its care and its surroundings. The leaves can reach more than 30 centimetres across. The plant has a climbing habit, so it will stretch upwards, especially if you give it room to climb up a moss pole.
Is a Monstera toxic?
The Monstera is toxic if swallowed. The plant contains oxalate crystals that can irritate the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, pain in the mouth and throat, and stomach ache. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. Do you have pets but would still love a green houseplant? Then take a look at our pet-friendly houseplants.
Different kinds of Swiss cheese plant
There are several kinds of Monstera, each with its own characteristics. Although every Monstera is fundamentally the same plant, these varieties can look very different from one another, which makes choosing the perfect Swiss cheese plant a pleasant challenge.
- Monstera Deliciosa: the classic Monstera, known for its large, pinnate leaves. This plant climbs happily or grows free-standing, whichever you prefer.
- Monstera Monkey Leaf: this smaller variety has leaves that look as though they have been punched through in the middle. It is ideal for smaller spaces and has a playful look.
- Monstera Siltepecana: this Monstera looks nothing like its 2 relatives above. The Siltepecana has silver-green leaves with a beautiful pattern. Its leaves have no holes, but are a little more pointed.
How do you choose the perfect Monstera?
Choosing the right Monstera needn't be difficult, but there are a few things worth thinking about:
- Position: does your Monstera need plenty of daylight, or would it rather grow in shade? The Monstera does well in indirect light, but avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorched leaves.
- Time for care: some Monstera varieties, such as the larger Deliciosa, need more attention (pruning, and training the plant up a moss pole). Think about how much time you can give your plant.
- Space: Monsteras can grow considerably, so make sure you have enough room. If space is tight, a smaller Monstera such as the Monkey Leaf may be the better choice. This plant is also available as a hanging plant, an ideal option if you have little room for houseplants. A hanging plant sits perfectly on top of a tall cabinet, or you can hang it from the ceiling with a hook.
Would you like to pick out your own Monstera? You can! With our Personal Plantshopper option you receive photos via WhatsApp within seconds and choose your own Swiss cheese plant.
Caring for the Monstera
The Monstera is an easy houseplant, but it is important to give it the right care.
- Watering: water the plant weekly. The soil should stay slightly moist, but never soggy. Check regularly that the soil has dried out before you water again.
- Light: the Monstera does best in bright indirect light or light shade. Too much direct sunlight will scorch the leaves.
- Pruning: prune away dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy and encourage growth. Pruning also helps you keep the shape you want.
- Humidity: Monsteras love high humidity. If the air in your home is dry, mist the plant regularly with a plant mister or use a humidifier.
Taking cuttings from the Monstera and repotting it
Want to grow new Monsteras? Taking cuttings is simple. Cut off a healthy stem and place it in a mix of potting soil and sand. Keep the soil moist until roots develop.
Repot your Swiss cheese plant once the roots have completely filled the pot. That gives the plant more room to grow. Make sure the new pot drains well to prevent root rot. In our blog we tell you more about repotting your houseplants.
Diseases and pests
The Monstera can be affected by various diseases and pests. Look out for the following symptoms:
- Root rot: this is usually caused by too much water. Make sure the pot drains well and use a moisture meter to check whether the soil is too wet.
- Spider mite: spider mites are tiny insects that damage the leaves. They can be treated with a pesticide.
- Mealybug: these small insects attach themselves to the leaves. Mealybug can be removed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth.
Buying a Monstera at Green Bubble
Discover the splendour of Green Bubble, the place to find your perfect Monstera. Order your Monstera easily online and have it delivered straight to your door. Choose easy ordering and bring nature into your home with a stunning Swiss cheese plant from Green Bubble!
