The focus of this article shifts from the popular Monstera deliciosa, known for its split leaves. Instead, I want to highlight another beautiful plant—the Monstera adansonii. This plant features more delicate, hole-filled leaves and a climbing form, making it a great choice for adding greenery to any interior.
Understanding the Monstera Adansonii
Monstera adansonii commonly known as the Swiss Cheese plant is a spomonas tropical vine from central and south America. Unlike the Monstera deliciosa, this variety has smaller, heart-shaped leaves. These leaves have many holes or “fenestrations.” The natural openings allow more light to reach the plant’s tissues, which helps it thrive in the dark rainforest.
Key Characteristics of the Monstera Adansonii
- Fenestrated Leaves:The characteristic which can be attributed to the Monstera adansonii and at the same time sets it apart from other similar plants is fenestration of the leaves. Yet, these holes, or splits in the leaves of this species are different in size and number and are not typical for other plants.
- Vining Growth: The Monstera adansonii is climbers which should be trained to climb a moss pole or a trellis. It can also be trained to climb and to develop as a Trailing plant.
- Air Roots: Also common with other Monstera species, Monstera adansonii produces aerial roots which enable it to wrap and stick to surfaces.
- Low Maintenance:Maintenance of this plant is not very demanding and it can adapt well to most of the interiors.
Caring for Your Monstera Adansonii
- Light: Monstera adansonii should be positioned in bright, indirect light. Do not expose it singly to the sun because the heat can burn the new bulk of leaves that will come out.
- Temperature: This plant grows best in temperature ranges within 65-80°F (18-27°C), while it’s noting that it can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but not a lot. Do not leave it in a cold current of air or place it in a hot water if that is not necessary.
- Humidity: Notably and as it is the case with most Monstera species, Monstera adansonii ticks the box for high humidity. Place a spray on the leaves or get a humidifier to increase the humidity of the environement.
- Watering: Pests: You should water your Monstera adansonii more frequently than most other types of Monstera but, avoid over watering which may make the soil too soggy. During watering, only let the top soil inch to dry before you proceed to water your plant.
- Soil: Choose a well-draining soil that is also fertility enriched but contain a lot of organic matter.
- Fertilizer: Bekim your Monstera adansonii with a diluted liquid fertiliser when they are actively growing (spring and summer) only.
Propagating Your Monstera Adansonii
It is comparatively easy to propagate Monstera adansonii. You can propagate it from stem cuttings or aerial roots:
- Stem Cuttings: It is recommended choosing a stem cutting that should contain a node as well as a leaf. Bury it in a good drainage soil and water it until it germinates.
- Aerial Roots: In the case your Monstera adansonii is producing aerial roots, you can cut the roots and put the plant in a pot. Water them well and give them the necessary humidity till they grow their roots.
Common Problems and Solutions
- Yellowing Leaves: This could be because of over watering the plant, a very dangerous thing to do especially for plant growers. Water your house plants slightly less often and allow the soil to dry out even more before watering them again.
- Brown Leaf Tips: This may be connected with low humidity in the air. Bath the plant more often or use a humidifier in the area.
- Leggy Growth: Sometimes the plant grows tall and thin, this is an indication it needs more light. Take it away from a dark area.
- Pests: This plant can be susceptible to pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Conclusion
This plant is a stunning and adaptable plant to grow in your home and gives you an incredible look for your indoor garden. Easy to grow with lovely fenestrated leaves and a vine like carrying this little gem is sure to soon become a favourite. If you take care of it in the right way, it’s possible to have it around for several years.
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