Monstera

Monstera is a genus in the Araceae family, representing about 60 species that are native to the tropical jungle regions of the Americas.  They are evergreen perennial climbing vines which climb by the use of strong aerial roots, attaining heights of around 70'.  Aerial roots are not exclusively used for attaching and support, but also grow into the soil directly so Monstera is a hemiepiphyte. 

The genus name, Monstera, is derived from Latin meaning 'monstrous' or 'abnormal'.  This is due in part to the sheer size possible in the wild, of dark green leathery leaves 10' long; and also for the adaptation of fenestrations.  Fenestrations are deep side slits and oval openings that develop naturally to permit filtered light to penetrate to lower, otherwise shaded, leaves.  This allows the vine to retain photosynthesis capabilities along the entire climbing vine and not only the sun exposed crown.  The result are dense, vigorous vines dominating the tropical forest understory.

Care should be observed in that Monstera have calcium oxylate crystals and trichosclereids, and not that either are considered lethal they are directly related to causing strong irritation and possible complications-if ingested.  These are adaptions design to fend off herbivores, and they work.