When Mia first brought home her Swiss cheese plant or Monstera Deliciosa, she didn’t anticipate how quickly it would become the centrepiece of her home. With its glossy, fenestrated leaves that seem to grow more prominent and striking by the day, the plant brought a touch of the jungle into her urban apartment. As she watched the plant flourish, she became fascinated by its unique appearance, how it got its name, and how to properly care for it. Like many plant enthusiasts, Mia was part of a growing community that cherishes the Monstera for its beauty and air-purifying qualities. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of the Swiss cheese plant, from its origins and unique features to how you can successfully grow and care for one in your own home.
What is a Swiss Cheese Plant?
The Swiss cheese plant, scientifically known as Monstera Deliciosa, is a tropical plant native to the rainforests of Central America. It is named for its large, perforated leaves, which resemble slices of Swiss cheese. The plant belongs to the Araceae family, which includes other popular houseplants such as the philodendron and peace lily.
One of the Swiss cheese plant’s most striking features is its leaves. As the plant matures, its leaves develop deep splits and holes, a natural adaptation that allows it to withstand strong winds in its native jungle environment. These fenestrations, or leaf holes, are not only visually interesting but also serve a functional purpose. The leaves can grow up to 3 feet long, creating an impressive display indoors.
Popularity of the Monstera Deliciosa in Homes
The Swiss cheese plant has recently become incredibly popular among houseplant enthusiasts, and for good reason. Its aesthetic appeal, combined with its relative ease of care, makes it a favourite choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. According to a report by The Sill, houseplants like the Monstera Deliciosa have seen a 50% increase in sales in the past five years due to a rise in the “plant parent” movement. Millennials, in particular, are driving this trend, turning to plants to connect with nature while living in urban environments.
The plant’s ability to thrive indoors with indirect light and minimal care makes it ideal for those living in apartments or homes with limited outdoor space. Additionally, the Monstera’s air-purifying qualities have added to its appeal, as studies by NASA show that certain houseplants, including members of the Araceae family, can help improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene.
How Big Can a Swiss Cheese Plant Get?
One of the most common questions new plant owners like Mia have is, “How big will my Swiss cheese plant grow?” Under the right conditions, Monstera Deliciosa can grow into a massive houseplant. Indoors, it can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet, with leaves growing more prominent as the plant matures. The plant can grow even taller in its natural habitat, climbing up trees to reach 70 feet.
The plant’s aerial roots, which grow out of the stem and attach to nearby surfaces, allow it to climb and support itself. In a home setting, many plant owners use stakes or moss poles to give their Monstera something to climb, which helps encourage vertical growth and promotes larger leaves.
Caring for Your Swiss Cheese Plant
Despite its exotic appearance, the Swiss cheese plant is surprisingly easy to care for, which is one reason for its popularity. The key to success is replicating its natural environment as closely as possible, providing it with the right amount of light, water, and humidity.
- Light: Monstera Deliciosa thrives in bright, indirect light. In the wild, it grows beneath the canopy of large trees, so it’s accustomed to receiving dappled sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, while too little light will cause the plant to grow leggy, with smaller leaves and fewer fenestrations. Ideally, place your Monstera near an east or west-facing window where it will receive plenty of indirect light.
- Watering: Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes new Monstera owners make. Let the top few inches of soil dry out between waterings to avoid root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water your Swiss cheese plant once every 1-2 weeks, adjusting the frequency depending on the season and the plant’s environment. When the plant’s growth slows in winter, it will need less water.
- Humidity and Temperature: Monstera Deliciosa is a tropical plant that prefers high humidity levels. If you live in a dry climate or your home’s air is particularly dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant on a humidity tray to keep the air around it moist. The ideal temperature for a Swiss cheese plant is between 65°F and 85°F. It’s essential to avoid placing it near drafts or vents, as sudden temperature changes can stress the plant.
- Fertilization: During the growing season, which typically lasts from spring to early fall, it’s a good idea to fertilize your Swiss cheese plant every month with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This will provide the nutrients it needs to produce lush, large leaves. In the winter, you can reduce or stop fertilization, as the plant’s growth will naturally slow.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
While Monstera Deliciosa is relatively low-maintenance, a few common issues can arise, especially for new plant owners. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems and how to address them:
- Yellowing Leaves: If your Monstera’s leaves turn yellow, it’s often a sign of overwatering. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom. Let the soil dry out before watering again.
- Brown Leaf Tips: Brown tips on your Monstera’s leaves usually indicate low humidity. Try misting the leaves regularly or placing the plant in a more humid room, like a bathroom.
- Leggy Growth: If your plant is growing long, spindly stems with small leaves, it likely needs more light. Move it to a brighter location with indirect sunlight to encourage fuller growth.
- Pests: Like many houseplants, Monstera Deliciosa can sometimes attract pests like spider mites or aphids. If you notice small webs or tiny insects on the plant, treat it with a natural insecticidal soap or wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth.
The Swiss Cheese Plant’s Impact on Well-Being
Beyond its visual appeal, owning a Swiss cheese plant can positively impact your mental and physical well-being. Studies have shown that caring for houseplants can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of calm and relaxation. Research published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that interacting with plants can reduce physiological and psychological stress by suppressing autonomic nervous system activity.
Moreover, the Monstera’s air-purifying qualities can contribute to a healthier indoor environment, making it a perfect plant for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Removing toxins from the air can help alleviate symptoms of allergies or respiratory issues, making your home a more comfortable place to live.
Conclusion: A Green Investment in Your Home
For plant enthusiasts like Mia, the Swiss cheese plant isn’t just a piece of decor—it’s a rewarding and impactful addition to any home. With its dramatic, perforated leaves, the Monstera Deliciosa can transform a space while providing numerous health benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor garden, the Swiss cheese plant is an excellent choice for its beauty, ease of care, and positive impact on well-being. If you provide the right conditions, your Monstera will thrive, growing more extensive and impressive each year.
