It’s true, Switzerland isn’t just home to the beautiful Swiss Alps and delicious Swiss chocolate. It’s also home to the infamous Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa). A native of Mexico and Central America, this plant is incredibly popular thanks to its distinctive leaves, which feature ragged holes that, indeed, do look like Swiss cheese!
Swiss Cheese Plant is an evergreen perennial vine that can reach up to 20 feet in height when given plenty of space and sunlight! It prefers humid climates and is often grown in containers or hanging planters since it does not require much soil and likes plenty of fresh air. It easily develops aerial roots, which can also be used for support if needed – this is why it’s sometimes used as a climbing plant. The showy palmate leaves, which measure up to two feet in length, are marked with large, deep holes, giving it the familiar ‘Swiss cheese’ look. The plant is also known for its large fragrant white flowers, which bloom around September and October each year.
The Swiss Cheese Plant is relatively easy to care for and is a moderately fast grower, although it does not tolerate cold weather. The soil should be kept slightly moist and the plant should be kept in semi-shade for best results. Pruning of dead or dying leaves is encouraged in order to keep the plant looking healthy and attractive. Fertilizing monthly is recommended, especially during the growing season. When kept indoors, it is important to give it space to grow so that it can develop its beautiful foliage and flowers.
Given its tropical origins, the Swiss Cheese Plant is often used as an indoor houseplant. It can also be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical areas, or in some warmer regions of the United States. It makes a great accent plant for gardens or patios, providing an attractive backdrop or focal point, and of course conversation piece. It is also popular with bonsai enthusiasts and often featured in bonsai shows.
Surprisingly, the plant’s distinctive leaves are actually edible. The ‘Swiss cheese’-style holes are actually spongy arils, which can be eaten raw or cooked. To harvest the arils, simply pick off the new growth at the tips of the stems and peel away the outer layer to reveal a soft, sweet, and flavourful inner core. So, if you’re ever feeling a craving for a cheesy snack, you know where to turn!
The Swiss Cheese Plant is a unique flora originating from Mexico and Central America, and is prized for its distinct leaves – resembling Swiss cheese – and fragrant white flowers. It’s relatively easy to care for, and can be used both as a houseplant or in gardens or patios. Bonus: its leaves are actually edible! Whether you’re looking for a conversation starter or just something to nibble on, you can’t go wrong with this plant.