Once upon a time, in a lush rainforest, lived a curious little seedling named Monty. Unlike her siblings, Monty’s leaves weren’t smooth and round. They were bumpy and strange, with little holes scattered all over them.
“Why am I so different?” she wondered, looking at her reflection in a dewdrop. “All the other leaves are perfect!”
Her siblings laughed. “Look at you, Monty! You look like Swiss cheese!”, they teased.
Monty felt sad. She wished she could have beautiful, smooth leaves like everyone else.
One day, a wise old owl swooped down. “Why the long face, little one?” he hooted.
Monty explained her troubles. The owl chuckled. “My dear, those holes are not flaws; they are a gift!’
“A gift?” Monty was confused.
“Yes, a gift from the rainforest!”, the owl explained. “Those holes allow rainwater to pass through easily, reaching the roots of other plants below. They also help to prevent the leaves from tearing during strong winds.”
Monty was amazed. “So, my holes are helping the rainforest”
“Indeed!”, the owl nodded. “You are not just a beautiful plant, Monty, you are a helpful one too!”
The owl continued saying, “These are not only holes but windows to the world. These windows allow sunlight to reach the smaller plants below. They even help the wind dance through the forest, carrying sweet scents and playful whispers. The leaves, with their unique windows, are heaven for tiny insects, a shelter for sleepy lizards, and a pathway for curious forest creatures. The holes in the leaves act like tiny windows, capturing the moonlight and reflecting it softly. Monty, you illuminate the dark jungle floor!”
From that day on, Monty was proud of her unique leaves. She knew that her holes were a special gift, making her a valuable part of the rainforest. And whenever the wind blew, she would whisper, “Thank you for my special leaves!”
And these leaves are the majestic Monstera adansonii, Swiss Cheese Plant leaves.
All photos by Pallabi Mohapatra.
About the Author: Pallabi Mohapatra, an educator, resource person, and counsellor, cultivates scientific excellence in teachers and students. A devoted nature lover, she addresses societal issues and strives for a better world.
