Monstera deliciosa

​Monstera deliciosa

• Common name: Split-Leaf Philodendron, Swiss Cheese Plant
• Scientific name: Monstera deliciosa
  
• Family name: Araceae
  
• Origin: Southern Mexico
  
• Height: Depends on supporting structure; known to grow up to 66 ft high in the wild
  
• Width: Depends on supporting structure
  
• Growth: Fast
  
• Zone: 10b-11
  
• Light needs: Shade
  
• Salt tolerance: Low
  
• Soil/pH/Texture: Well-drained clay, sand, or loam soil, acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0-7.5)
  
• Moisture: Humidity tolerant. Moderate water needs, should be watered regularly until established
  
• Drought tolerance: Moderate
  
• Pests/Diseases: Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites
  
• Growing conditions: Should be grown in a shady area with soil rich in organic matter content. Monstera deliciosa grows in a climbing pattern, so its best planted near a tree, trellis, or other tall object it can climb. It can be easily grown indoors as a houseplant, but will likely be shorter and less likely to flower than if it were grown outside.
  
• Characteristics: Leaves grown alternately and may be 18 to 36 inches in length. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have characteristic holes throughout the blade, which may extend to the leaf margin, giving the leaf a split appearance. The flower consists of an off-white spade covering a yellow-white spadix, and the flowers are self-pollinating. The fruit consists of green hexagonal scales covering the flesh, and gives off a pungent odor as it ripens. Once ripe, the fruit is edible.
  
• Propagation: By cuttings or air layering
  
• Wildlife: Fruit is a food source for animals
  
• Facts: Its name, Monstera deliciosa, has two meanings: Monstera, for the monstrous size the plant can grow to, and deliciosa, for the delicious fruit the plant produces. The fruit may take over a year to ripen. If eaten unripe, the plant’s needle-like oxalate crystals will cause discomfort. The fruit is often used to flavor drinks or ice cream, and is described as tasting like a mix of pineapple and banana.
  
• Designer considerations: Great houseplant for the home or office. Outdoors, it can be used as a decorative plant to climb up tree trunks, giving the garden a lush quality.
  

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Monstera deliciosa

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Butterfly Garden