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MONSTERA DELICIOSA - SWISS CHEESE PLANT.
 Synonym Philodendron pertusum Common name Mexican breadfruit, Swiss cheese plant, ceriman, window leaf, split leaf philodendron, pina anona, arum du pays, hojadillo. Family Araceae (Arum family). Overview Swiss cheese plant is a tropical ornamental plant, indigenous to Suriname. However, this aroid is also grown for its fruit. It has large leathery leaves, up to 3 feet; these are glossy and deeply cut. The Swiss cheese plant must be supported, so it can climb upwards. It has aerial roots growing downwards out of the stem and take root when they reach the ground. It has a cream colored flower spike (spadix) covered with hexagonal scales; when mature, it is edible and has a sweet pineapple-mango taste! The fruit is high in vitamin C and potassium. A close relative is the Monstera Adansonii, which is called five holes plant in Suriname. Medicinal applications A leaf or root infusion taken daily to relieve arthritis (Mexico). A root preparation is used in Martinique as a remedy for snakebite Hardiness USDA zone 9B - 11. Propagation Seeds, suckers or offshoots and stem cuttings. Due to recalcitrant nature of the seeds, they have a short viable life, can not be dried well and can not withstand low temperatures. Culture Full sun / half shade; moist, well drained soil. Grows best at temperature of 70° - 80° F; it does not tolerate frost well. Needs high humidity. Plant in frost free spots; can be grown as a container plant indoors. It takes 12 to 14 months from opening of the inflorescence to the maturity of fruit. |
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