Species guide

Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)

Toxic if eaten

Monstera deliciosa

Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)
Photo: Mustapha · CC BY

What does Monstera (Swiss cheese plant) look like?

A climbing houseplant with large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that develop dramatic holes and deep splits as they mature.

Is Monstera (Swiss cheese plant) dangerous?

A hugely popular houseplant, but every part contains calcium-oxalate crystals that cause painful mouth and throat irritation if chewed — toxic to cats and dogs, and irritating to people.

What should I do about Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)?

Keep it out of reach of pets and toddlers, and wear gloves if your skin is sensitive to the sap.

Never decide what's safe to eat or touch from a photo or a web page. Identification here is for learning and curiosity only. For anything you might eat, handle or that could harm you or a pet, consult a qualified local expert, and seek medical or veterinary care if exposure has happened.

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