How to Grow and Care for Swiss Cheese Plant

The Swiss Cheese Plant, scientifically known as Monstera deliciosa, is a tropical favorite cherished by indoor plant enthusiasts for its striking split leaves and easy care requirements. Native to the rainforests of Central America, this lush climber is known for its dramatic foliage that develops fenestrations—holes and slits resembling Swiss cheese—hence the common name. Whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced plant collector, the Swiss Cheese Plant makes a stunning addition to your indoor jungle.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for the Monstera deliciosa—from propagation and potting to watering, light needs, and pest control. By the end, you’ll be ready to grow a thriving Swiss Cheese Plant in your home or garden.

Common Name	Swiss cheese plant, Swiss cheese vine, five holes plant, cheese plant
Botanical Name	Monstera adansonii
Plant Type	Perennial
Family	Araceae
Mature Size	10–13 ft. tall (outdoors), 3–8 ft. tall (indoors), 1–3 ft. wide
Soil Type	Moist, well-drained
Sun Exposure	Partial
Bloom Time	Spring (does not bloom indoors)
Flower Color	White
Native Area	Central America, South America

What is Swiss Cheese Plant?

The Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa) is a tropical climbing plant belonging to the Araceae family. It features glossy, heart-shaped leaves that develop holes and splits as the plant matures. These holes are an adaptation that allows light to filter through to lower leaves in its natural rainforest habitat. Over time, the plant can reach 10 to 15 feet indoors and even more in the wild.

It’s also sometimes called the “Split-leaf Philodendron,” although it’s not a true philodendron. The plant can bear fruit in the wild, known as the Monstera fruit, which is edible and tastes like a mix of pineapple and banana—hence the species name “deliciosa.”

How to Plant a Swiss Cheese Plant

Planting a Swiss Cheese Plant is simple and rewarding. Start by selecting a well-draining pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot. Choose a rich, airy soil mix—ideally a blend of potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite—to promote proper aeration and moisture retention. Gently remove the plant from its nursery pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new container.

Ensure the root ball sits about an inch below the pot’s rim. Fill in with soil around the roots, pressing lightly to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly until excess drains out. Place the plant in a spot with bright, indirect light and keep it in a warm, humid environment. For support as it grows, consider adding a moss pole. Regular repotting every 1–2 years ensures healthy growth. With the right setup, your Monstera will thrive and produce its iconic split leaves in no time.

Water

Water the Swiss Cheese Plant when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry. Use room-temperature water and allow excess to drain completely. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil causes root rot. Reduce watering during winter. Consistent moisture—not wetness—helps the plant thrive and develop healthy, fenestrated leaves.

Soil

To grow a Swiss Cheese Plant successfully, use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. A mix of potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite works best. This combination ensures proper aeration, moisture retention, and root health, helping the plant thrive. Avoid compact or waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.

Light

To grow a Swiss Cheese Plant successfully, provide it with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. In low-light areas, the plant may grow slowly and develop fewer splits. Placing it near an east or north-facing window ensures healthy, vibrant, and fenestrated foliage.

Temperature and Humidity

The Swiss Cheese Plant thrives in warm temperatures between 18°C to 30°C and prefers high humidity levels above 50%. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C. To boost humidity, mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier. Maintaining these conditions encourages healthy growth and vibrant, fenestrated foliage.

Fertilizer

Fertilize your Swiss Cheese Plant monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Dilute to half strength to avoid overfeeding. Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows. Proper feeding promotes lush foliage and encourages healthy, vibrant leaf development.

Prune

To grow a healthy Swiss Cheese Plant, regular pruning is essential. Trim yellow, damaged, or overgrown leaves using clean scissors. Cut just above a node to encourage new growth. Pruning controls size, promotes bushier growth, and keeps the plant looking neat and vibrant throughout the growing season.

How to Propagate Swiss Cheese Plant

Propagating a Swiss Cheese Plant is easy and rewarding. The most common method is stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem with at least one node and an aerial root. Cut just below the node using clean scissors. Place the cutting in water or moist, well-draining soil. Keep it in a warm, humid spot with bright, indirect light. Change the water every few days if using the water method. Roots typically develop within 2–4 weeks. Once the roots are a few inches long, transfer the cutting to a pot with soil. Continue regular care, and new growth will soon appear.

Types of Swiss Cheese Plant

Monstera deliciosa: The classic Swiss Cheese Plant known for large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves with deep splits and holes. Grows big and is perfect as a statement indoor plant.

Monstera adansonii: Smaller and more delicate than deliciosa, with multiple oval-shaped holes. Great for hanging baskets or trailing along shelves.

Monstera obliqua: A rare and highly delicate variety, with extremely thin leaves and large, dramatic holes—often more hole than leaf!

Monstera borsigiana: Sometimes confused with deliciosa, but grows faster and stays slightly smaller. Ideal for indoor spaces with limited room.

Monstera siltepecana: A unique vining variety with silvery-green juvenile leaves. It becomes fenestrated as it matures and is great for trellises or moss poles.

Each variety has its charm, making Swiss Cheese Plants a diverse and beautiful group of indoor foliage plants.

Benefits of Growing Swiss Cheese Plant

Growing a Swiss Cheese Plant offers multiple benefits:

Air Purification	Like many houseplants, it helps filter indoor air.
Aesthetic Appeal	Its large, sculptural leaves add tropical vibes and elegance.
Low Maintenance	It’s relatively easy to care for.
Adaptable	Thrives in various indoor conditions.
Fast-Growing	Can quickly fill a space with lush greenery.
Stress Reduction	Indoor plants are known to boost mood and productivity.

Common Problems and Solutions for Swiss Cheese Plant

The Swiss Cheese Plant is generally easy to care for, but it can face a few common issues when not provided with the right environment.

Yellow Leaves: This often results from overwatering or poor drainage. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and make sure the pot has drainage holes.
Brown Leaf Tips: Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity using a humidifier or pebble tray, and ensure consistent watering.
Drooping Leaves: This may be due to underwatering, overwatering, or root-bound conditions. Check the soil moisture and root health. Repot if roots are overcrowded.
No Fenestrations (Holes in Leaves): Lack of sunlight or immaturity can cause leaves to remain solid. Provide bright, indirect light and be patient as younger plants develop fenestrations with age.
Pests (Spider Mites, Mealybugs): These pests thrive in dry conditions. Wipe leaves regularly and treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can lead to stretched stems and sparse leaves. Move the plant closer to a light source or provide supplemental grow lighting.

By recognizing and addressing these issues early, your Monstera deliciosa will stay vibrant, lush, and healthy year-round.

Swiss Cheese Plant vs. Monstera – What’s the Difference?

The term “Swiss Cheese Plant” commonly refers to Monstera deliciosa due to its large, split leaves with holes resembling Swiss cheese. However, confusion arises because “Swiss Cheese Plant” is also used for Monstera adansonii, a related species with smaller, more delicate leaves full of oval-shaped holes. Both belong to the Monstera genus but differ in size, leaf shape, and growth habits. Monstera deliciosa grows larger with deep splits and can produce fruit, while Monstera adansonii remains smaller and is often grown in hanging baskets. Despite the similar nickname, they are distinct in appearance and care needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Swiss Cheese Plant toxic to pets?

Yes, Monstera deliciosa is toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets due to calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation or swelling if ingested.

Why are there no holes in my plant’s leaves?

Lack of fenestration often results from insufficient light or the plant being too young. Ensure your plant receives bright, indirect light and proper nutrition.

Can I grow Swiss Cheese Plant outdoors?

Yes, in USDA zones 10–12. In colder climates, it should be grown indoors or brought inside during winter.

How often should I repot my Monstera deliciosa?

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots become crowded. Use fresh potting mix to boost growth.

How tall can a Swiss Cheese Plant grow indoors?

With proper support and care, it can grow up to 10 feet indoors. Use a moss pole or trellis to support vertical growth.

Conclusion

The Swiss Cheese Plant is more than just a trendy houseplant—it’s a long-lasting, visually captivating plant that brings a tropical atmosphere into your home. Its stunning foliage, low maintenance requirements, and fast growth make it ideal for both beginner and seasoned plant lovers. With the right care—ample indirect light, moderate watering, and occasional pruning—your Monstera deliciosa will thrive and become a stunning centerpiece in your indoor garden.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your home decor or start a lush green collection, the Swiss Cheese Plant is a must-have that delivers beauty and benefits year-round.