Monstera deliciosa vs Monstera adansonii
Monstera deliciosa develops larger leaves with edge splits and internal holes. Monstera adansonii has smaller leaves with holes that stay inside the blade.
Side by side
| Monstera deliciosa | Monstera adansonii | |
|---|---|---|
| Mature leaves | Large leaves with holes and splits reaching the edge | Smaller leaves with enclosed oval holes |
| Young leaves | Can be solid before splits and holes develop | Often develop enclosed holes on smaller leaves |
| Growth habit | A large climbing vine | A smaller-leaved climbing or trailing vine |
| Support | Climbs using aerial roots | Can climb a support or trail from a pot |
| Light | Bright filtered or indirect light | Bright, indirect light |
| Watering | When the upper mix is almost dry | Every 6 to 8 days (summer), every 11 to 17 days (winter) |
| Pet safety | Toxic to cats and dogs | |
Which should you choose?
Monstera deliciosa
Choose Monstera deliciosa if you have room for larger leaves and a climbing support. Young plants can have solid leaves, so do not expect every new plant to have the mature split shape.
Monstera adansonii
Choose Monstera adansonii if you prefer smaller leaves with enclosed holes. Let it trail or give it support to climb. It remains a growing vine, so allow space for its stems.
Check the plant label before choosing care. Similar common names can refer to different species.
More plant comparisons
Common questions
Are Monstera deliciosa and adansonii the same species?
No. They are separate species in the Monstera genus. Both are called Swiss cheese plant, so check the scientific name when buying.
Why does my young Monstera deliciosa have no holes?
Juvenile leaves can be solid. Mature foliage develops more holes and splits as the plant grows. One young leaf is not enough to distinguish the species.
Are both Monsteras toxic to pets?
Monstera deliciosa is toxic to cats and dogs. Monstera adansonii is toxic to cats and dogs. Keep both away from pets that chew leaves or stems.
Sources3 references
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