BOTANICAL NAME: Monstera adansonii
COMMON NAME: Swiss Cheese Plant, Five-hole plant, Monkey mask
ORIGIN: Tropical Americas
GOOD FOR: Intermediate plant parents
HEIGHT: Vine can grow 7-20'
LIGHT: Bright, indirect light or partial sun like in their native area dwelling under trees in the tropical rain forests. Avoid direct sun, as it will burn the leaves. Place a few feet away from a south, west or east facing window.
WINDOW PREFERENCE: East and west windows work best.
WATER: Wait until the top two inches of soil is dry and then water around the base of the plant until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot. At this point you can stop. Water droplets or perspiration on the leaves indicates the plant has been overwatered. Plant is susceptible to root rot.
HUMIDITY: This plant loves humidity. Keep on a pebble tray or use a humidifier. Plant collectors can group with other plants for some self-made humidity. These plants like a good misting every few days. Remember to always mist in the morning.
TEMPERATURE: Prefers to be between 65-85 degrees. Will not do well in temperatures below 50 degrees. Keep away from drafts and heat vents.
SOIL / REPOTTING: Needs well-draining indoor potting soil with additional peat moss, orchid bark or perlite mixed in. Likes to be slightly cramped in its pot so choose a new pot that is only slightly larger. Only repot when you see new roots growing out of the bottom of the pot.
PLANT FOOD: In spring and summer, feed once a month. We recommend using Joyful Dirt Houseplant Plant Food. Stop feeding in fall and winter due to slower growth and dormancy.
PRUNING: Keep the leaves clean and dust free; can trim to keep the size manageable and the vines full.
PESTS: Thrips, scale, and whiteflies
TOXICITY: Mildly toxic if ingested.
ANGRY PLANT PROBLEMS: Water droplets or perspiration on the leaves - overwatering. Brown leaf edges or wilting leaves - Too little water. A thorough watering is in order.