Shade tolerance as "Monstera deliciosa" and a number of other members of the family Araceae, such as members of the genus "Philodendron", initially grow "away" from light; this is a dramatic example of sciophilous growth, which helps them locate a tree trunk, which they then climb to regions of brighter light. The upper shoots and leaves of such a Philodendron grow as typical light-loving, "photophilic" plants once they break out into full sunshine. In forests where rainfall is plentiful and water is not the limiting factor to growth, shade tolerance is one of the most important factors characterizing tree species. However, different
Monstera deliciosa for humans. Forcing a "M. deliciosa" to flower outside of its typical tropical habitat proves to be difficult. Specific conditions need to be met for the plant to flower. However, in its tropical and subtropical habitat, the plant flowers easily. In these areas where it grows naturally, "M. deliciosa" is considered a delicacy due to its sweet and exotic flavor. Fruits of plants of the Araceae (Arum family) often contain Raphides and Trichosclereids – needle-like structures of calcium oxalate. In "M. deliciosa," unripe fruit containing these needle-like crystalline structures can cause irritation of the mouth. The fruit first shows signs