Exploring Popular Monstera Varieties
Monsteras are beloved for their stunning, lush foliage, making them a favorite among indoor plant enthusiasts. Two of the most popular varieties, Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii, stand out for their unique looks and manageable care needs. If you’re wondering which one is the best fit for your home, this guide compares their features, care requirements, and suitability for beginners. Whether you’re new to plant care or expanding your collection, Monstera Haven is here to help you choose the perfect monstera for your space.
Key Features of Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa, often called the Swiss cheese plant, is the iconic monstera most people picture. Its large, heart-shaped leaves with deep splits and holes (called fenestrations) make it a statement piece in any room.
Size and Growth: Monstera deliciosa can grow big, reaching 6–10 feet indoors with proper care. Its leaves can span up to 2 feet wide in ideal conditions, so it needs plenty of space to spread out. This variety often climbs or trails, making it perfect for a trellis or moss pole.
Leaf Characteristics: The leaves are dark green, glossy, and develop more fenestrations as the plant matures. Young plants have solid leaves, but splits appear as they grow, giving them their signature look.
Appearance Appeal: Deliciosa is bold and dramatic, ideal for those who want a plant that commands attention. It’s a great choice for large living rooms or spaces with high ceilings.
Growth Rate: This variety grows steadily in bright, indirect light, producing new leaves every few weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Key Features of Monstera Adansonii
Monstera adansonii, also known as the Swiss cheese vine, is a smaller, more compact variety with a delicate, airy appearance. Its unique leaf structure makes it a favorite for those who prefer a daintier look.
Size and Growth: Adansonii stays smaller, typically reaching 3–5 feet indoors. It’s a vining plant that loves to trail or climb, making it perfect for hanging baskets or shelves.
Leaf Characteristics: The leaves are smaller (4–10 inches long) and feature numerous oval-shaped holes across their surface, giving them a lacy look. Unlike deliciosa, adansonii’s fenestrations are more consistent even in younger plants.
Appearance Appeal: Adansonii has a softer, more whimsical vibe, ideal for small spaces or as a decorative accent on bookshelves or in hanging planters.
Growth Rate: This variety grows quickly in the right conditions, producing new vines and leaves regularly during spring and summer.
Care Differences and Beginner Suitability
Both Monstera deliciosa and adansonii are relatively easy to care for, but their needs differ slightly. Here’s how they compare and which is better for beginners.
Light Requirements: Both thrive in bright, indirect light. Deliciosa can tolerate slightly lower light but may grow slower, while adansonii needs consistent bright light to maintain its vibrant leaves. Place either near a north- or east-facing window for best results.
Watering Needs: Water both when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry (every 7–14 days, depending on the season). Adansonii’s smaller size means it may dry out faster in small pots, so check the soil regularly. Deliciosa’s larger root system can handle slightly longer gaps between waterings.
Humidity and Temperature: Both prefer humidity above 50% and temperatures between 65–85°F. Adansonii is more sensitive to low humidity, so a humidifier or pebble tray can help. Deliciosa is a bit more forgiving but still loves humidity.
Support and Pruning: Deliciosa benefits from a moss pole or trellis to support its heavy stems, while adansonii can trail freely or climb with light support. Both need occasional pruning to remove dead leaves or control growth.
Beginner-Friendliness: Adansonii is slightly easier for beginners due to its smaller size and faster growth, which makes it more forgiving of minor care mistakes. Deliciosa requires more space and patience but is still manageable with basic care knowledge. For more care tips, visit Monstera Haven.
Tips for Choosing Based on Space and Style
Deciding between Monstera deliciosa and adansonii comes down to your space, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences. Here are some tips to help you choose.
Space Considerations: If you have a spacious room with room for a large plant, deliciosa is a great pick. Its bold leaves make it a focal point in living rooms or offices. For smaller apartments or tight spaces, adansonii’s compact vines fit perfectly on shelves or in hanging baskets.
Style Preferences: Want a dramatic, jungle-like vibe? Go for deliciosa. Prefer a minimalist, airy look? Adansonii’s lacy leaves add subtle charm. Both can complement various decor styles, from boho to modern.
Time Commitment: Both are low-maintenance, but adansonii’s smaller size makes it easier to manage for busy plant parents. Deliciosa may need occasional staking or repotting as it grows larger.
Budget: Adansonii is often more affordable and easier to find, while mature deliciosa plants can be pricier due to their size. Start with a smaller plant if you’re on a budget.
Final Thoughts on Picking Your Monstera
Whether you choose the bold Monstera deliciosa or the delicate Monstera adansonii, both varieties bring tropical beauty to your home. By understanding their features, care needs, and how they fit your space, you can pick the perfect monstera for your lifestyle. With the right care, either will thrive and elevate your indoor jungle. Explore more monstera tips at Monstera Haven to grow your collection with confidence.