The Monstera adansonii, popularly called the Swiss cheese plant or monkey mask plant, is loved for its glossy green leaves full of natural oval holes. It is a smaller, faster-growing cousin of the Monstera deliciosa, with the same tropical look in a size that fits a table, shelf or windowsill. This plant arrives about 12–15 inches (30–38 cm) tall with a full, bushy set of leaves, in a 5-inch black plastic nursery pot.
Highlights
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Iconic holey leaves: every new leaf opens with its own pattern of "windows"
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Quick grower: puts out new leaves regularly through the warm months
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Climb or trail: give it a moss pole to climb, or let the vines spill from a shelf or hanging planter
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Air-purifying houseplant: Monstera is commonly listed among air-purifying indoor plants
Care
Easy care, great for beginners.
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Sunlight: bright, indirect light, such as near an east or north window. Avoid harsh direct afternoon sun, which scorches the leaves
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Watering: water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry, roughly every 5–7 days in summer and every 10–14 days in winter. Never let it sit in water
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Soil & temperature: a well-draining potting mix; happiest between 18–30°C and away from cold AC drafts
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Fertilizing: fertilize once every 30–60 days with NPK 19:19:19 or vermicompost
Ideal for
A fresh tropical touch for a living room, bedroom, study desk or office, and a lovely housewarming, Diwali or birthday gift for plant lovers. Every plant is hand-picked at Abana Homes, carefully packed and delivered across India in 2–5 days, with a live-plant guarantee and free aftercare support.
FAQs
What is the difference between Monstera adansonii and Monstera deliciosa?
Adansonii has smaller, oval leaves with holes inside the leaf, and grows as a climbing or trailing vine. Deliciosa has large, heart-shaped leaves that split from the edges and grows into a big floor plant. Both are called the Swiss cheese plant.
Can Monstera adansonii grow indoors?
Yes, it is an indoor plant. Keep it in bright, indirect light; in a dark corner it grows slowly and makes fewer holes in new leaves.
Why are my Monstera leaves turning yellow?
Most often overwatering. Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry before watering again and make sure the pot drains freely.
Is Monstera safe for pets?
No. Monstera contains calcium oxalate, which irritates the mouth and stomach of cats, dogs and children if chewed. Keep it out of their reach.
Can I repot it into a decorative planter?
Yes. You can place the nursery pot inside any planter about 6 inches wide, or repot it into a slightly bigger pot with fresh, well-draining mix whenever you like.
Is it available in a ceramic pot?
Yes, the same plant also comes in a 5-inch glossy white ceramic pot, ready to display or gift.