Are you looking to learn about the differences between Monstera adansonii and Monstera obliqua?
These two tropical plants have gained significant popularity in recent years as houseplants for their unique appearance and lush foliage.
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While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences that make each species stand out.
Adansonii vs Obliqua
One main difference between Monstera adansonii and Monstera obliqua lies in the appearance of their leaves.
The obliqua species exhibits larger leaves with more dramatic fenestrations, or holes, while adansonii has smaller leaves with more numerous but less pronounced fenestrations.
Additionally, Monstera obliqua tends to have thinner, more delicate leaves compared to the thicker leaves of Monstera adansonii.
Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when choosing between these two beautiful species for your home or garden.
Apart from their leaf characteristics, there are other factors to consider when comparing Monstera adansonii and Monstera obliqua.
For example, Monstera adansonii tends to be more readily available and easier to care for than M. obliqua, which is often considered a rare and more challenging plant to maintain.
If you’re new to plant care or want a more forgiving addition to your home, Monstera adansonii is the better choice.
Regardless of which species you select, both can provide an attractive, exotic touch to your living space.
Monstera Adansonii
Physical Features
Monstera adansonii, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a popular houseplant recognizable by its leaves.
You’ll notice the deep green, heart-shaped leaves, which typically have distinctive holes or fenestrations.
These leaves can grow up to 13 inches (33 cm) long and 9 inches (23 cm) wide, depending on the growing conditions.
Growth Habits
Your Monstera adansonii will be a fast-growing plant if provided with an ideal environment to grow.
The plant tends to grow in a vining pattern, meaning it will climb and trail as it grows.
To encourage vertical growth, you may want to provide a moss pole or a trellis for your Monstera to climb and develop its aerial roots.
Monstera Obliqua
Physical Features
Monstera obliqua is a fascinating plant, known for its unique foliage that features both small regular holes and larger, irregularly-shaped holes.
The leaves of this plant are typically quite thin and delicate, giving it a lacy appearance.
They’re usually medium to dark green in color and have a glossy finish.
Compared to the adansonii, Monstera obliqua leaves have larger holes and a more defined oblique shape.
Growth Habits
As a climbing plant, your Monstera obliqua will naturally seek out areas in your space where it can attach itself and continue to grow.
It’s common for this plant to produce aerial roots, which will help it climb and cling onto supporting structures, such as a trellis or moss pole.
In terms of growth rate, Monstera obliqua usually grows a bit slower than Monstera adansonii, and it may take some time for it to reach its full potential.
Check out this video of a very detailed explanation of the key details of the adansonii and obliqua.
Key Differences
Here’s a comparative summary of the key differences between the adansonii and obliqua.
Leaf Appearance
Typically, Monstera obliqua is known for its extremely delicate, almost paper-thin leaves with a very high proportion of holes to leaf material, often described as more hole than leaf.
This contrasts with Monstera adansonii, which, while still exhibiting a significant number of holes, tends to have a more substantial leaf structure where the holes take up less of the leaf surface area compared to obliqua.
Growth Patterns
The growth patterns of these two Monstera species also vary. Monstera adansonii generally grows at a faster rate, with vines that can easily reach lengths of over 20 feet in favorable conditions.
This species is more likely to climb on supports or spread out across the floor.
On the other hand, Monstera obliqua is a slower-growing plant, with vines that usually remain shorter and more compact.
This species tends to grow more vertically and requires a bit more support to climb properly.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for Monstera adansonii and Monstera obliqua can be pretty similar, but there are a few key differences in their maintenance requirements:
Light
Both species prefer bright, indirect light, but Monstera obliqua is more sensitive to direct sunlight and may suffer from scorched leaves if exposed to too much direct light.
Water
Monstera adansonii requires a well-draining soil and should be watered only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Let the soil dry out between the waterings of the Monstera obliqua. It’s a much more fragile plant.
Humidity
Both species thrive in a humid environment, but Monstera obliqua is particularly sensitive to low humidity levels and may experience browning leaves if the air is too dry.
Mist your Monstera obliqua regularly or use a humidifier to maintain higher humidity levels.
Pruning
Monstera adansonii can grow quite aggressively, so regular pruning may be necessary to maintain its size and shape.
Monstera obliqua has a slower growth rate and usually requires less frequent pruning.
Remember that each plant is unique, and you should adapt your care routine to suit the specific needs of your individual Monstera, observing its growth and adjusting accordingly.
Both plants are stunning additions to any indoor plant collection, and with proper care, they will reward you with their unique, eye-catching foliage for years to come.
Remember to assess your specific living conditions and plant preferences to make the best decision for your space.
If you’re fascinated by the Obliqua, you need to know this rare variety. Read here: The One Underestimated Monstera Variety Every Indoor Gardener Needs to Know
