Monstera Adansonii Vs Monstera Deliciosa

Imag of Monstera Adansonii Vs Monstera Deliciosa

Have you ever seen a Monstera adansonii and wondered how it differs from Monstera deliciosa?

It’s easy to get them mixed up because they’re part of the larger Monstera family. But there are some notable disparities between the two Monstera species.

To iron out things, we’ve gathered all the info you need so you can tell which one you’re looking at.

If you’re like us and love all things plants, then this is the perfect blog post for you. Not only will we cover the basics of each plant, but we’ll also discuss how to care for each of them.

So grab a coffee and settle in—it’s time to learn more about two of your favorite Monsteras.

Monstera Adansonii Vs Monstera Deliciosa

The difference between Monstera Adansonii and Monstera Deliciosa is their leaf shape and flexibility. Deliciosa’s leaves are perforated, while adansonii feature small holes. Monstera deliciosa is also not as flexible as adansonii, making it more difficult to train and grow according to your desire.

About Monstera Adansonii

If you’re looking for a dramatic, easy-care statement plant, the Monstera Adansonii is for you. It is an exotic species of evergreen vine found in the rainforests of South America. 

Adansonii’s dark green heart-shaped leaves feature unique oval perforations that easily identify it as a Monstera species.

Unlike other houseplants that grow vertically, this beauty has a trailing growth pattern with long vines reaching up to 40 inches.

This dramatic look comes with surprisingly minimal care; it requires bright indirect light, high humidity, and regular watering – but that’s all it takes. 

Unlike its cousin (Monstera deliciosa), this plant is less prone to disease and pests and requires less pruning and care.

It’s also easier to contain in smaller spaces – so this might be the perfect pick if you don’t have an indoor jungle yet.

About Monstera Deliciosa

Monstera deliciosa often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, is an iconic houseplant that’s gained immense popularity in recent years. 

It produces glossy and green leaves with perforations and splits along the edges– hence the name split-leaf philodendron.

But unlike Monstera pinnatipartita, deliciosa’s leaf splits do not reach the midrib. These splits are also found in Monstera borsigiana, so you must be keen when shopping for vines.

The Swiss Cheese Plant boasts many impressive characteristics – from its sweet fruit to its unique beauty and low maintenance needs.

Its vining stems are perfect for decorating airy corners or creating traversing accents along entryways or walls.

So if you want to add a showstopper piece to your décor, this Swiss cheese vine may be the perfect choice.

Monstera Deliciosa

Monstera Adansonii Vs Monstera Deliciosa: What Are the Differences?

When comparing Monstera adansonii vs Monstera deliciosa, you’ll notice distinct differences in appearance. Let’s look at each one in detail:

1. Fenestrations/ perforated leaves

The most striking difference between these Monstera varieties is the holes or “fenestrations” in their leaves.

Monstera adansonii is known for its heart-shaped leaves with large oval holes, while the deliciosa has deeply cut and perforated ovate leaves.

You’ll also notice that adansonii has more holes than deliciosa.

monstera deliciosa

2. Leaf size

The leaf size is another distinguishing feature. Monstera adansonii usually has smaller leaves, typically around 8-12 inches.

In comparison, Monstera deliciosa has huge perforated leaves that grow 24 inches long. 

Deliciosas typically cover much space and can be a great addition if you’re looking for a statement plant.

Meanwhile, Monstera Adansonii plants will suffice if you want a minimalist indoor garden.

3. Growth habit

Monstera deliciosa Growth habit

The third major difference between these two plants is their growth habits.

Monstera adansonii is a trailing vine, which gives it an impressive stature making it appear larger especially if placed in hanging baskets.

It grows faster than deliciosa and can show significant improvement in a few weeks.

Monstera deliciosa, on the other hand, is a much slower grower and is more likely to form a creeping or upright clump. 

4. Leaf shape & edges

Leaf appearance remains the most apparent distinguishing feature in Monsteras.

Adansonii has much smaller and more heart-shaped green leaves, while deliciosa has broad oval-shaped leaves with deep holes that give them a Swiss cheese appearance. 

You’ll also find striking differences in the leaf edge. The edges of the Monstera adansonii are pointed and smooth; if you were to rub your finger along them, it would feel relatively soft.

Meanwhile, the edges of the split leaf philodendron are characterized by deep cuts and jagged points — they feel more like ridged teeth than smooth edges.

5. Height

Plant height matters, especially if you grow your greens indoors. As hinted earlier, Monstera adansonii is an air plant and typically needs something to climb.

Still, mature plants can manage impressive heights of 2-3 m. 

Meanwhile, deliciosas can double that up and reach 6 m, with enough care and support, even when grown indoors.

6. Fruit

Finally, the most significant difference between these two species lies in their fruit. Yes, both Monstera varieties produce fruits.

But while deliciosa is famous for its edible pineapple-like fruit, adansonii’s fruit is poisonous and should not be eaten.

Monstera deliciosa  fruit

Okay, that’s it! Those are the primary differences between these two Monsteras. So, you may wonder; do these plants have any similarities?

Monstera adansonii fruit

Swiss Cheese Plant (Deliciosa) and Monstera Adansonii Similarities

Adansonii and deliciosa have similarities that make them attractive tropical plant choices for any home.

They have the same root systems, stem structure, ease of propagation, etc. Read on to discover more.

i. Propagation

Both Monstera varieties are relatively easy to propagate. The most common method is via stem cuttings.

These are cuttings of the stems, including any aerial roots, taken directly from the parent plant. The cuttings can then be rooted in soil or water to produce new plants. 

ii. Stem

The stems of both Monstera varieties have a similar structure with large eye-catching green leaves that emerge from the nodes in the branches.

The only difference is Monstera adansonii tends to be more twining and vining, while Monstera deliciosa prefers to remain more compact.

iii. Root system

Monstera adansonii and Monstera deliciosa have aerial roots that help them attach and climb. Their comparatively large root structure allows them to thrive in areas with poor soils. 

Since they’re both epiphytic, they can take advantage of the air around them; their large plant roots also help to sustain their growth. 

iv. Growth requirements

Both Monstera species require regular watering and moderate fertilizing. 

However, Monstera adansonii prefers slightly drier soil than the Monstera deliciosa and should be left to dry out between waterings.

They respond well to moderate fertilization (once a month) with dilute liquid fertilizer. 

Other shared growth requirements include bright indirect sunlight, moderate to warm temperatures (60-85°F), high humidity (60% or more), and a well-draining potting mix. 

Best Growth Conditions for Monstera Plants

A plant’s natural habitat dictates its growth requirements indoors. Monstera plants are native to tropical climates and have similar needs.

Check the following if you’re considering getting an adansonii, deliciosa, or any other monstera plant variety for your home.

Soil

Soil is factor number one. It is best to use potting soil specially formulated for indoor plants. It should be light, airy, and slightly acidic, which will help the plants absorb the nutrients they need. 

Be sure to add some organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to the potting mix as this will help retain moisture and ensure the soil remains loose and light. 

Pot size

Pot size also matters when planting vines because Monstera plants like to be root bound. Therefore, it’s best to use a pot slightly larger than the plant’s root system. 

A large pot ensures sufficient drainage preventing root rot, a common problem if you overwater Monstera plant.

Light

Both Monstera varieties prefer bright indirect light (or direct sunlight if you’re growing your plants outdoors). However, they can tolerate lower light levels too.

But plenty of natural light is essential if you want your plants to produce beautiful foliage and thrive. 

Temperature

Monsteras can handle cooler temperatures. However, it’s best to keep them away from cold drafts and fluctuating temperatures.

They like it when the temperature is consistently between 16-27°C (60-85°F).

Pruning

Pruning is also necessary to encourage healthy growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves or stems as soon as they are noticed.

This will help prevent the spread of disease and ensure that the plant remains healthy. 

Humidity

Monstera plants prefer humid environments as they originate from tropical rainforest regions.

If the indoor air is dry, use a houseplant humidifier or mist the leaves every few days to replicate their natural habitat.

Fertilizing

Lastly, these Monstera species require moderate fertilizing. A balanced liquid fertilizer should be applied once a month during the growing season, with the dosage depending on the type of fertilizer used.

Otherwise, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year. 

Once you settle your Monstera plant into its new home and provide optimal growth conditions, you’ll surely enjoy healthy foliage all year round.

Is Mini Monstera/Monstera Minima a Deliciosa Variety?

Mini Monstera

No, the Mini Monstera (or Rhaphidophora tetrasperma) is also a tropical vine but not a variety of deliciosa. In fact, these two plants belong to different genera and species. 

But Monstera minima is often considered a deliciosa variety because the two look alike at a glance. Both have characteristic leaf splits and aerial roots. Read more on when do monstera leaves split and philodendron leaf splits.

Rhaphidophora tetrasperma is also a tropical trailing vine native to Southeast Asia.

On to the differences:

You’ll notice that Mini Monstera leaves are smaller than deliciosa and have split edges, but they do not feature the small holes in deliciosa.

Plus, Mini Monsteras tend to stay relatively small and bushy with slender, lacey vines (great for decorating). But deliciosa can grow much larger and have broader leaves and vines.

So if you hear someone refer to Mini Monsteras as “deliciosa” or vice versa, you know they are talking about two different plants.

Is Monstera Acuminata Similar to Monstera Adansonii?

Though they belong to the family Araceae and have striking similarities, Monstera acuminata is quite different from adansonii.

Both Acuminata and adansonii leaf surfaces have well-defined oval lobes. Their leaves are heart-shaped but narrow, have smooth edges, and are more pointed than other Monstera varieties. 

But these plants tend to grow differently; while adansonii has flexible climbing stems, acuminata is a more rigid stem that grows up to 1 meter- without support.

The Monstera obliqua is another rare species with oval-shaped holes, so you must be careful when comparing the three. 

Monstera Deliciosa Vs Monstera Adansonii Prices

So how much do these two beauties cost? Well, the price of either one can depend on where you purchase it, the plant size, etc. 

Monstera deliciosa is the most sought-after species and can cost anywhere from $30 to $50. In comparison, Monstera adansonii is usually less expensive, ranging from $10 to $25. 

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference when choosing between these two Monstera varieties.

Maybe you’re looking for something more affordable that won’t break the bank. In that case, you’ll want to go with Monstera adansonii. 

On the other hand, if you’re after a unique and show-stopping statement piece, Monstera deliciosa is the way to go. 

You can’t go wrong with either selection—both Monstera varieties will make a great addition to your home.

FAQ

What are the differences between Monstera Borsigiana and Deliciosa?

Monstera Borsigiana and Deliciosa are two varieties of Monstera plants that have some differences. Borsigiana has smaller leaves and is more adaptable to indoor environments, while Deliciosa has larger leaves and requires more space to grow. However, both Monstera varieties have similar care requirements and are easy to propagate.

Also Read: Monstera Laniata Vs Adansonii

Conclusion

Monsteras are a perfect example of how two plants can be similar in many ways yet different in others. Now that you know all about deliciosa and adansonii, it’s time to choose the right plant for your home.

Whether you’re a newbie gardener looking for a tough-but-cute houseplant or a skilled one trying a new vine, Monsteras will provide a rewarding experience. 

The difference between the two Monstera varieties is subtle, but it can help you determine what suits you best. Read this guide to find the Differences between Split Leaf Philodendron and Monstera.

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