Ceriman (Monstera deliciosa)

Family: Araceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Native to tropical rainforests of Mexico, Monstera deliciosa or Ceriman is a climbing, flowering shrub commonly grown as an ornamental indoor plant but has delicious, edible fruits. It grows about 20 m high, with aerial roots and large, leathery, glossy, and heart-shaped leaves. It can be propagated by air layering or internal cuttings. The aerial roots are used as ropes and in making baskets. Root infusion is used against arthritis.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste, combining the flavours of bananas and pineapples. — The juicy, subacid fruits have an excellent aroma and taste, combining the flavours of bananas and pineapples.; The fruit is eaten raw, made into jellies and jams, and is also used in ice creams, sherbets, soft drinks etc.; Some people find the fruit unpleasant to eat because it can contain irritating crystals in the pulp.; The fruit is 8 - 12mm long, held in a bunch on a spadix that can be 25cm long.

Habitat & North American Range

An epiphytic vine, growing in the branches of trees in moist or wet, mountain forests at elevations of 900 - 1,500 metres. (Zone 10)