Native to the rainforests of Central America, the Monstera deliciosa plant is also known as the "tropical split-leaf philodendron." This climbing evergreen is a popular easy-to-grow houseplant and a favorite of many interior designers for both residential and commercial spaces. Indoors, the plant grows about two feet high, its leathery, glossy, characteristic split and heart-shaped leaves coming from intricate aerial roots, which can be used for ropes and basket making. It is also called Swiss cheese plant due to the perforated leaves, which can grow up to three feet long and are significantly larger than the related petite varietyM. adansonii.Hardy in USDA Zones 10 through 12, Monstera deliciosa thrives in high humidity, produces tan-cream flowers pollinated by bees and bears edible juicy fruit with the combined flavor of pineapple and banana. Fruiting is not common in houseplants.
