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Plant Profiles / Swiss cheese vine
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Swiss cheese vine
Monstera adansonii · Five holes plant, adansonii
Heart-shaped leaves full of holes on fast trailing or climbing stems. Lush in a hanging pot or on a moss pole.
Bright indirect lightLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect light
ShadeFull sun
Avoid harsh direct sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Water when the top 3 cm is dry.
Humidity
Average to high
LowHigh
Enjoys humidity.
Temperature
15–30°C (59–86°F)
CoolWarm
Keep above 12°C.
Growth
Fast, trailing
SlowFast
Trails or climbs 2 m+.
Soil
Chunky aroid mix
LeanRich
Mix with bark and perlite.
Fertiliser
Monthly in growing season
RarelyOften
Balanced liquid fertiliser.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Toxic to pets.
About this plant
From Central and South America, this monstera climbs trees in the wild. It grows quickly indoors and can trail or be trained upwards.
Best spots
Hanging pots, shelves, moss poles and bright bathrooms.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Monstera adansonii |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | Central and South America |
| Plant type | Climber |
| Mature size | 2 m+ |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Leaves | Perforated hearts |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Repot
Propagate
Fertilise
Water less
RepotPropagateFertiliseWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering. |
| Small leaves, no holes | More light and support. |
| Brown edges | Low humidity. |
| Leggy | Pinch and replant tips. |
Common questions
Can it hang?
Yes.
Is it pet safe?
No.
Does it climb?
Yes, give it a pole.
Is it easy?
Yes.
