Swiss Cheese Plants
Cheese plants, or Monstera, are one of the most popular and well-known houseplants, and for good reason! These impressive plants produce large, green leaves, often with ‘fenestrations’ that give them an unusual, lacy appearance. They are good air purifying plants, and like a warm spot with bright but indirect light. The compost should be well-drained, but they will need regular waterings, and prefer a bit of humidity.
The Monstera deliciosa is the best known, but there are many varieties to choose from, each with its own unique qualities:
Monstera deliciosa
The standard Swiss Cheese plant! These plants have stunning holey leaves, and can grow to be quite large; a fantastic statement plant, they will appreciate some support from a coir pole or similar.
The name “deliciosa” refers to the edible fruit, but monstera kept as houseplants are unlikely to have the conditions to produce this. The leaves and stems should not be eaten by humans or pets.
Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’
A much sought-after variety of the popular Monstera deliciosa, with the same large, fenestrated leaves. What sets this one apart is its beautiful colour; the leaves are splashed and speckled with white, creating an eye-catching, variegated display.
Monstera adansonii
The Monstera adansonii is a more compact variety, with large, quite even holes in its leaves, which give it the name ‘Monkey Mask Plant’. A great climber, it will scramble readily up a support, but can also be left to trail, creating a beautiful cascade of foliage down a bookshelf or from a hanging planter.
Monstera standleyana
These plants have much narrower leaves than their relatives, and tend to lack the fenestrations. They are, however, beautifully coloured, the lance-shaped leaves being marbled with white or yellow markings. These plants are climbers, with an upright growth pattern and newer leaves that reach upwards before drooping slightly as they age.
Monstera obliqua
A rare and highly perforated Monstera, sometimes described as more hole than leaf. These delicate specimens are slow-growing and more compact than other varieties, making them a good choice for a smaller space. However, they can be trickier to keep than others, requiring a careful eye on their watering & humidity.
Monstera dubia
An unusual type with pretty, silvery veining on heart-shaped leaves, which can also develop holes as they age. Although a smaller variety, it is a vigorous climber, and is also known as the ‘Shingle plant’ as its leaves will lie flat against a surface, giving the impression of roof tiles.
Pop in store to find out which types of Cheese Plant we currently have available!
Please note: Monstera are toxic to both humans and animals if ingested.