Upcoming Events: Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Plant Stake Stained Glass Workshop Sunday Sept. 27th @ 2pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm / Intro to Stained Glass October 3rd @ 2 pm
Monstera Adansonii is a popular tropical climbing plant prized for its distinctive green leaves filled with natural oval-shaped openings called fenestrations. Young leaves may begin with only a few openings, while established plants grown under good conditions can develop larger foliage with increasingly dramatic fenestration. Its fast-growing vines make it an excellent choice for climbing displays, hanging baskets, shelves, or moss poles.
The proper botanical name is Monstera adansonii, commonly called Swiss Cheese Vine, Swiss Cheese Plant, or Adanson’s Monstera. It is a true member of the Monstera genus and is native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Different natural forms of Monstera adansonii can vary in leaf size, shape, texture, and the amount of fenestration.
Monstera Adansonii does best in medium to bright, indirect light. Plenty of filtered light encourages vigorous growth and well-developed fenestrations. It can tolerate medium light, but growth may become slower and new leaves may remain smaller. Avoid prolonged harsh direct sunlight, which can scorch the foliage.
Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain. Monstera Adansonii prefers consistent moisture during active growth but should never remain soggy or waterlogged. Avoid allowing the plant to stay completely dry for extended periods.
Use a well-draining, chunky aroid potting mix in a container with drainage. A mixture containing quality houseplant soil or coco coir, orchid bark, perlite or pumice, and other coarse amendments works well. This provides moisture retention while maintaining plenty of airflow around the roots.
Monstera Adansonii prefers warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity. It adapts to average household humidity, although additional humidity can encourage larger, healthier foliage and help prevent crispy leaf edges. Good airflow is beneficial in higher-humidity environments.
This plant has a vigorous climbing and vining growth habit. It can be allowed to trail, but providing a moss pole, plank, or other vertical support allows its aerial roots to attach and can encourage progressively larger leaves with more mature fenestration. Pruning longer vines can encourage branching and maintain a fuller appearance.
Monstera Adansonii is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Like other Monsteras, it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, along with drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Upcoming Events: Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Plant Stake Stained Glass Workshop Sunday Sept. 27th @ 2pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm / Intro to Stained Glass October 3rd @ 2 pm
