Colors and shapes

With its large, holey green leaves Monstera is unmistakable, but there are still different varieties.
The classic green version is supplemented with a white variegated variety and a climber with smaller leaves that have large holes. The leaves of a young plant are heart-shaped. If given enough light and water, the leaves grow and deep incisions develop. Adult leaves can have a diameter of up to a metre.

Symbolism

In the Chinese symbolism, the Monstera is a symbol of a long life and the honouring of elders and respected people.

Origin

The Monstera is a member of the Arum family and can be found in Panama and southern Mexico, where the plants climb up the trees to a height of some 20 metres. They also attach themselves to tree trunks, rocks or the soil with their fleshy aerial roots in the forests of Southeast Asia.
The best-known species is Monstera deliciosa. The name ‘deliciosa’ refers to the delicious 20 cm long fruit that used to be cultivated in Central America. The flavour is reminiscent of banana combined with pineapple, but at home you’ll be unlikely to come across a Monstera fruit basket sadly!

Fun fact

Monstera plants are known for their distinctive leaf patterns. The slits and holes in Monstera leaves are called fenestrations.

For more interesting info check out the Oxford University's website