While both Monstera adansonii and Monstera deliciosa belong to the same celebrated genus and share a family history in the Araceae family, they are distinct species with unique characteristics and, consequently, some differing care requirements. Understanding these differences from a botanical perspective is key to providing each plant with an optimal environment.
The most apparent difference lies in their foliage. Monstera deliciosa develops large, often massive, heart-shaped leaves that become deeply pinnatifid (split) and develop fenestrations (holes) as they mature. In contrast, Monstera adansonii leaves are smaller, more elongated, and ovate. Their fenestrations form internally on the leaf blade rather than splitting the margin, creating its characteristic "Swiss cheese" look. This is an adaptation for light capture and wind resistance in their native habitats. Furthermore, M. deliciosa is a vigorous hemiepiphytic climber that can become a sprawling giant, while M. adansonii is a faster-growing, vining plant with a more delicate, trailing habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets.
Both plants are understory species adapted to bright, dappled light. However, M. adansonii is often found on tree trunks at a slightly higher elevation than the often more terrestrial M. deliciosa. This translates to care: M. adansonii can tolerate slightly lower light conditions but will exhibit slower growth and fewer fenestrations. It is crucial to avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch its thinner leaves. M. deliciosa, with its larger and slightly tougher leaves, can handle brighter indirect light and is more dependent on it to develop its signature splits and mature form.
The thinner leaf lamina of Monstera adansonii has a higher transpiration rate relative to its size compared to the thicker, more leathery leaves of M. deliciosa. This means the adansonii variant will often dry out more quickly and has a lower tolerance for drought. It typically requires more frequent watering, preferring consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil. Both species thrive in high humidity, but M. adansonii is generally more sensitive to very dry air, which can lead to crispy leaf edges.
Monstera adansonii is generally a faster grower under ideal conditions, rapidly producing new vines. Its growth is more chaotic and trailing. While it appreciates a moss pole to climb, which encourages larger leaves, it is less dependent on it than M. deliciosa. Monstera deliciosa is a structural climber; its stem is thicker and it develops long, heavy, aerial roots that actively seek out a support structure. Without a sturdy moss pole or trellis, its growth can become unbalanced and it will fail to develop the large, mature leaf forms it is known for.
