Monstera Adansonii Vs Philodendron

If you’ve ever found yourself admiring a lush, leafy vine with holes in its leaves, you might wonder: is that a Monstera Adansonii vs Philodendron? You’re not alone in your confusion. These two popular houseplants look very similar at first glance, leading to frequent mix-ups at garden centers and in online photos. Both are beloved for their beautiful foliage and relatively easy care, but they are distinct species with key differences. Knowing how to tell them apart helps you provide the right care and choose the perfect plant for your space. Let’s clear up the confusion and look at the specifics.

This heading highlights the core comparison. While they share a family tree (both are in the Araceae family), Monstera adansonii and many common vining Philodendrons (like the heartleaf Philodendron) are different genera. Think of them as cousins, not twins. The confusion often stems from their similar growth habits and leaf shapes, especially when the plants are young. However, paying attention to a few specific features will make you an expert at distinguishing them in no time.

1. Leaf Structure and Fenestrations

The most famous difference lies in the leaves. This is where the details really matter.

Monstera Adansonii: The leaves are typically thinner and more papery in texture. Their most defining feature is the presence of closed fenestrations (holes). These holes are formed while the leaf is still developing and remain entirely enclosed by leaf tissue. The leaf edges are also more wavy or ruffled.
Philodendron: Leaves are usually more heart-shaped with a smoother, often glossier texture. Any splits or divisions in the leaf are open fenestrations, meaning they extend to the leaf’s edge, creating deep lobes. They rarely, if ever, have isolated holes in the middle of the leaf.

2. Growth Habit and Aerial Roots

How these plants climb and support themselves offers another clear clue.

Monstera Adansonii: This plant is a vigorous climber. It produces thick, fuzzy aerial roots that are primarily used for anchoring itself to a support like a moss pole or tree bark. These roots are less efficient at absorbing water and are mainly for stability.
Philodendron: Vining types also climb, but they produce multiple, thinner aerial roots along the stem. These roots are often smoother and are more adept at absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air and their support. Their growth can sometimes appear a bit more chaotic.

3. The Presence of a Geniculum

This is a technical but foolproof identifier. A geniculum is a small, flexible joint.

Monstera Adansonii: Does not have a geniculum. The leaf stem (petiole) connects directly to the base of the leaf without this distinct joint. This means the leaves are less mobile and don’t tilt as much to follow light.
Philodendron: Does have a prominent geniculum. This little joint allows the leaf to swivel and orient its face toward the light source, a behavior you can often observe over the course of a day.

4. New Leaf Growth (Cataphylls)

Watch how new leaves emerge—it’s a dead giveaway.

Monstera Adansonii: New leaves grow directly from the previous leaf’s stem. They emerge rolled up and tightly wrapped, slowly unfurling to reveal their fenestrated form. There is no protective sheath.
Philodendron: Each new leaf is protected by a sheath called a cataphyll. This papery, often green or brown sheath covers the developing leaf. Once the leaf matures, the cataphyll dries up and eventually falls of.

5. Overall Size and Leaf Size

Considering the mature potential of each plant can guide your choice.

Monstera Adansonii: Leaves can grow quite large when the plant is allowed to climb, often reaching 1-2 feet in length in ideal indoor conditions. The internodes (spaces between leaves) are typically longer.
Philodendron: While some species get huge, common vining types like heartleaf usually have smaller leaves, typically 2-4 inches long indoors. The internodes are often shorter, creating a denser appearance.

Side-by-Side Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick reference guide to summarize the key differences:

Leaf Holes: Monstera: Closed holes. Philodendron: Open splits or none.
Leaf Texture: Monstera: Thinner, papery. Philodendron: Glossier, smoother.
New Growth: Monstera: Unfurls bare. Philodendron: Protected by a cataphyll.
Geniculum: Monstera: Absent. Philodendron: Present.
Aerial Roots: Monstera: Thick, fuzzy, for anchoring. Philodendron: Thinner, for anchoring and absorbing.

Care Requirements: Similar but Not Identical

Fortunately, their care is quite similar, which adds to the confusion but makes them great companions in your plant collection.

Light Needs

Both plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch their leaves. However, Monstera adansonii can often tolerate slightly lower light conditions than some Philodendrons, but its fenestrations will be less pronounced. A Philodendron may become leggy and produce smaller leaves without enough light.

Watering Schedule

This is a common area for error. Both like their soil to dry out a bit between waterings.

Stick your finger about an inch into the soil.
If it feels dry, it’s time to water thoroughly.
If it’s still moist, wait a few more days.

Overwatering is the fastest way to harm either plant, leading to root rot. Monstera adansonii’s thinner leaves may mean it shows thirst a bit sooner than a waxy-leafed Philodendron.

Soil and Potting

A well-draining, airy potting mix is crucial. You can use a standard houseplant mix and amend it with perlite or orchid bark to improve drainage. Both plants appreciate being slightly root-bound, so don’t rush to repot them. Repotting every 2-3 years is usually sufficient unless you see roots growing out of the drainage holes.

Humidity Preferences

As tropical plants, they both enjoy higher humidity (above 50%). They will adapt to average household humidity, but low humidity can lead to brown, crispy leaf tips. Using a humidifier, placing them in a bathroom, or grouping plants together can help. Philodendrons are sometimes a tad more adaptable to drier air.

Common Problems and Solutions

Since their care is similar, they face similar issues.

Yellow Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Check your soil moisture and ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Brown Leaf Tips/Crispy Edges: Usually caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase humidity or check your watering frequency.
Leggy Growth with Small Leaves: This indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location (but not direct sun).
Pests: Both can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and fungus gnats. Inspect leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.

Which Plant is Right for You?

Choosing between them often comes down to aesthetic preference and the specific look you want.

Choose Monstera Adansonii if you love the distinctive “Swiss cheese” hole look, want a fast-growing climber for a moss pole, and enjoy watching leaves unfurl dramatically.
Choose a Vining Philodendron if you prefer a more classic, heart-shaped leaf, want a plant that trails beautifully from a shelf or hanging basket, or desire a plant with leaves that visibly follow the light.

You really can’t go wrong with either. They are both resilient, beautiful, and excellent for beginners and experienced plant lovers alike. Many people end up with both in there collection!

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Are Monstera and Philodendron the same thing?

No, they are not. They belong to the same plant family (Araceae) but are different genera. They have distinct characteristics, as outlined above.

Is a Swiss Cheese Plant a Monstera or Philodendron?

The name “Swiss Cheese Plant” most commonly refers to Monstera deliciosa (large splits) or Monstera adansonii (smaller holes). It is rarely used for Philodendrons, which helps avoid some confusion.

Which is easier to care for, Monstera adansonii or Philodendron?

Both are considered easy-care houseplants. Philodendron varieties like the heartleaf are often touted as nearly indestructible and may be slightly more forgiving of occasional neglect, but Monstera adansonii is also very adaptable.

Can I grow them together in the same pot?

While possible because their care needs are similar, it’s not generally recommended. They may have different growth rates and one can outcompete the other for space and resources. It’s also best to keep them separate for easier pest management and watering.

Why does my Monstera not have holes?

Young Monstera adansonii plants often produce solid leaves. Fenestrations develop with age and sufficient light. If a mature plant is making leaves without holes, it likely needs more bright, indirect light to encourage this trait.

Understanding the differences between Monstera adansonii and Philodendron empowers you to be a better plant parent. With this knowledge, you can confidently identify them, meet their specific needs, and appreciate the unique beauty each one brings to your home. Next time you’re at a nursery, you’ll be able to spot the key features and choose the perfect green friend.