Monstera adansonii image • Photo: Author Diogo Luiz• CC BY-SA 4.0
Monstera adansonii is a hemiepiphyte vine with heart-shaped leaves featuring large oval perforations that give it the nickname 'Swiss cheese plant'. Its leaves have a thick, waxy texture and grow 3-5 feet tall as a houseplant, reaching up to 13 feet when allowed to climb as a vine. The plant thrives in tropical forests with high humidity and is recognized for its distinctive fenestrations (natural leaf holes) that help it withstand heavy rainfall in its native habitat. It grows as an epiphyte in the wild, often climbing trees with aerial roots.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Monstera adansonii
Light Requirements
bright, indirect sunlight
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
Native Climate
Native to South America, Central America, West Indies (including Antigua, Grenada, Trinidad, and Tobago)
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
well-draining soil
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Monstera adansonii plants
Propagation methods for this plant are not available yet.
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
South America, Central America, West Indies (including Antigua, Grenada, Trinidad, and Tobago)
moderate
3-5 feet tall as a houseplant, up to 13 feet as a vine
perennial
Pet safety unknown
Fun Fact
The leaf perforations (fenestrations) evolved to allow sunlight to reach lower leaves and help the plant withstand tropical rainstorms by reducing wind resistance.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Monstera adansonii
No problems reported
Good news! No common problems have been reported for this plant. If you encounter any issues, check back later or join our community to share your experience.
Varieties
Different varieties of Monstera adansonii
A variegated cultivar of Monstera adansonii
Community Tips
Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Monstera adansonii
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Nurseries Near You
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