Adanson's monstera Plant Care

Adanson's monstera (Monstera adansonii subsp. adansonii) belongs to the Araceae family within the Monstera genus. Adanson's monstera is native to Central and South America, Mexico, and the West Indies. Adanson's monstera is also known as Swiss cheese vine, Five holes plant, Monkey Mask.

Adanson's monstera displays a climbing, vining growth habit, reaching up to 13 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Adanson's monstera produces spathe and spadix.

Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.

Monstera adansonii subsp. adansonii requires watering every 5–7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Adanson's monstera thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Adanson's monstera in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Monstera adansonii subsp. adansonii grows best at temperatures of 64–81°F. Adanson's monstera prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Well-draining soil mix using peat, perlite, charcoal, orchid bark and some potting soil. Slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8. Good drainage is essential for Adanson's monstera to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Adanson's monstera every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Monstera adansonii subsp. adansonii should be repotted every 1-2 years, preferably in the spring when it is actively growing.. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Adanson's monstera can be propagated through stem cuttings, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to swiss cheese vine plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Adanson's monstera is susceptible to mealybugs, thrips, scale, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Adanson's monstera grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10b. Adanson's monstera is native to Central and South America, Mexico, and the West Indies. In cooler regions, grow Adanson's monstera as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.