Monstera Adansonii
Native to South and Central America, it belongs to the Araceae family.
It is also known as Monstera friedrichsthalii or Monkey Mask. A cousin of Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansonii climbs surfaces using its aerial roots, which slip through cracks. It is very popular due to its wild appearance, velvety and holey leaves, and its tolerance and resilience. It adapts very well to indoor environments and is very easy to care for. Perfect for beginners!
Difficulty
Easy
Toxicity
Toxic
Light
Bright indirect light
Watering
Moderate
Light
Ideally, find a spot for your Monstera adansonii with bright indirect light, a corner near a well-lit window with a direct view of the sky, so it can enjoy good quality light and grow healthy.
It tolerates medium indirect light, meaning locations between the window and the back wall; however, it may grow more slowly, with greater distances between nodes, and its leaves may be smaller.
Tip: Too intense light can cause the plant to overheat, as its leaves are very thin and could become dehydrated and dry out.
Watering
Moderate, do not waterlog the soil! It should remain moist.
Allow the soil of the Monstera adansonii to dry out between waterings. When the petioles start to droop and the leaves lose their firmness, it’s time to water. If you allow it to stay dry for several days, an old leaf may turn yellow and wither.
Remove any excess water left in the saucer of the pot.
Tip: Check the soil instead of having a set day of the week for watering, as several factors affect the rate at which the soil dries. You can insert a pencil and remove it after a few seconds; if it comes out dry and without soil sticking to it, it's time to water.
Humidity
Medium-high.
The leaves of Monstera adansonii do not have the waxy layer that is seen in its cousin Monstera deliciosa. Because of this and since they are thin, they have difficulty retaining moisture. Consequently, they need to be misted often, especially during hot months, if the environment is dry, or if the heating or air conditioning is on, which dries out the surroundings.
If the need for humidity is higher, add a saucer at the base of the pot with clay pebbles or volcanic rock and water, without touching the base of the pot. Don’t hesitate to group it with other plants; they will cooperate and share the humidity they generate.
If this is insufficient, use a humidifier.
Repotting
Repot your Monstera adansonii when the roots generously peek through the drainage holes (there might be no space left inside the pot) or when they push the plant out of the container. If you are unsure, take the plant out of the pot and inspect.
Use a pot that is 2 sizes larger than the previous one, preferably made of terracotta (although this is a matter of preference) and with drainage holes.
Tip: If the lower or older leaves turn yellow and wither, your Monstera adansonii might be asking for more space. Make sure this is the reason and then repot it.