Here’s a detailed comparison of the care differences between Monstera Adansonii and Monstera Deliciosa from a plant’s perspective:
Monstera Adansonii: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Direct sunlight may scorch its delicate, perforated leaves. It thrives in dappled sunlight, mimicking its natural rainforest understory habitat.
Monstera Deliciosa: Requires more intense bright, indirect light to support its larger leaves and faster growth. While it can adapt to medium light, insufficient light may result in smaller leaves with fewer fenestrations (splits). Direct sun should be avoided to prevent leaf burn.
Monstera Adansonii: Prefers consistently moist soil but is sensitive to overwatering. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Its thinner leaves lose moisture faster, so it may need more frequent watering in dry environments.
Monstera Deliciosa: Has thicker, more robust leaves and can tolerate slightly drier conditions. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
Monstera Adansonii: Thrives in high humidity (60-80%) due to its tropical origins. Low humidity may cause leaf edges to brown or curl. Regular misting or a humidifier can help maintain ideal conditions.
Monstera Deliciosa: Adapts well to average household humidity (40-60%) but grows best with higher humidity. While less demanding than Adansonii, it still benefits from occasional misting or a pebble tray.
Monstera Adansonii: Requires a well-draining, aerated mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and orchid bark. Its roots are fine and prone to rot in compacted soil.
Monstera Deliciosa: Needs a chunky, well-draining mix but can handle slightly heavier soil due to its sturdier root system. A combination of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well.
Monstera Adansonii: Grows as a trailing or climbing vine, making it ideal for hanging baskets or moss poles. Its stems are slender and flexible, requiring support to encourage larger leaves.
Monstera Deliciosa: Develops a more upright, tree-like growth habit with thick, woody stems. It benefits from a sturdy moss pole or trellis to support its mature size and encourage fenestration.
Monstera Adansonii: Prefers warm temperatures (65-80°F/18-27°C) and is sensitive to cold drafts. Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can stunt growth or cause leaf damage.
Monstera Deliciosa: Tolerates a slightly wider temperature range (60-85°F/16-29°C) but should be protected from frost. Its hardiness makes it more forgiving in fluctuating indoor conditions.
Monstera Adansonii: Benefits from a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in its delicate root system.
Monstera Deliciosa: Requires more frequent feeding due to its rapid growth. Use a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks in spring and summer, reducing frequency in winter.
Monstera Adansonii: Requires regular pruning to manage its trailing vines and encourage bushier growth. Trim leggy stems to maintain shape and propagate cuttings easily.
Monstera Deliciosa: Needs occasional pruning to remove yellowing leaves or control size. Heavy pruning can be done to reshape the plant, but it recovers slowly compared to Adansonii.
