Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Large split and holed leaves; the icon of tropical interiors.

Give it a moss pole and it will climb and produce bigger, more split leaves. The jungle look next to a bird of paradise.

Monstera deliciosa

Varieties: Standard, Thai Constellation (variegated)

Central American forests

Approx. 90-150 cm

Final size varies with the variety, pot size and light conditions.

Fast

Bright indirect light

Near a bright window behind a sheer curtain. Direct Riyadh midday sun can scorch the leaves.

Water once the top 3-5 cm of soil is dry and empty the saucer afterwards. Yellow leaves mean too much water; drooping means watering was late.

Watering needs change with room temperature, pot size and season, so check the soil rather than following a fixed schedule.

Average humidity

Copes with normal indoor humidity; keeping it out of direct AC airflow helps.

Ordinary indoor temperatures between 18 and 28°C suit it well.

Avoid direct AC airflow and intense heat behind glass in summer.

A well-draining indoor potting mix.

A balanced diluted liquid feed once a month from spring to early autumn; stop in winter.

Repot when roots fill the pot or push through the drainage holes, when the plant becomes unstable, or when growth slows. Move up one pot size only.

Remove yellow or dried leaves at the base; most of these plants need no regular pruning.

Wipe broad leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, and avoid leaf-polish products.

Bright indirect light keeps the splits coming; in a dim room the new leaves come out small and solid.

Toxic (calcium oxalate crystals): mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting.

Source: the ASPCA list of toxic and non-toxic plants. If a pet swallows any plant, contact a veterinarian immediately.

• Yellow leaves: usually overwatering or poor drainage.
• Brown tips: dry air, tap-water minerals or a direct AC draft.
• Drooping: watering was delayed or the soil dried out completely.
• Slow growth: not enough light or time to repot.

Spider mites in dry conditions, Mealybugs on stems and leaves, Fungus gnats when the soil stays wet

• Living room
• Office
• Entrance

• Congratulations
• Corporate
• Birthday

A large neutral stone-look or cream ceramic planter that balances the plant's size.

• Small·20-40 cm · 12-15 cm pot
• Medium·40-90 cm · 17-21 cm pot
• Large·90-150 cm · 24-30 cm pot
• Statement·Over 150 cm · 30 cm pot and above

Available sizes vary by plant and stock; confirm the size when ordering.

Its split leaves need room; add a support pole as it matures.