Monstera Deliciosa, Swiss Cheese Plant

Monstera deliciosa, aka Swiss Cheese Plant or Split Leaf Philodendron, is a very ornamental perennial fruiting vine native to tropical Mexico and Central America. It can be grown both indoors and outdoor and regarded as a highly sought after for its exotic fruit and has a unique tropical houseplant. Monstera produces large white showy flowers that yield an amazing tropical fruit that tastes like a combination of mango, banana, and pineapple. The plant is fast-growing and requires very little maintenance.

It’s name comes from the latin word for “abnormal”, because of it’s odd, perforated leaves, often punctured through with holes.  This is known as leaf fenestration.  Hardy and beautiful, the Monstera vine has large glossy splitting leaves that can reach an incredible 2-4 ft size themselves.  Growers marvel as the impressive new leaf growth unfurls over 1-2 days. Grown outdoors in the shade, the Monstera plant will thrive for many years. Monstera can grow in a somewhat bushy habit but is also happy climbing up large oak trees.

How to Eat Monstera Fruit: 
Not only does this plant make a statement in your home, it also deserves a worthy spot in your food forest! Monstera produces a rare and delicious fruit that’s highly coveted for it’s unique tropical flavor. Fruit must be allowed to ripen naturally before eating.  Place it upright in a glass for 2-3 days. When ripe, the inedible outer scaly shell will naturally peel away, revealing the soft edible interior flesh.