The Ultimate Monstera adansonii Care Guide
Master the basics. Here is exactly what she needs to grow big and beautiful in your space.
Meet Your Swiss Cheese Plant, Monkey Mask
-
Top-layer drying cycle
Keep a consistent cycle where you allow the top layer of substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, while keeping the deeper root zone evenly moist but never saturated. Always pour off any standing water from the saucers so your plant baby's roots aren't sitting in stagnant water. If you're ever unsure whether to water, wait a bit and check the root zone again later!
-
Bright, indirect light
Your Monstera adansonii will do best in bright, indirect light near a window. Be sure to avoid long stretches of harsh, direct midday sun on bare glass, as leaf tissue grown in softer greenhouse light can scorch and burn quickly. If it's not getting enough light, it will let you know by putting out stretched, leggy growth or very small new leaves.
-
Stable room warmth
Keep your plant in a stable, warm room temperature spot away from direct hot air, like right above a radiator, which can cause crispy edges and sluggish growth. You'll also want to protect its delicate tropical foliage from cold winter drafts coming from doors or tilted windows.
-
Appetite:
Dilute, balanced growth feeding
-
Fur-Baby Friendly
Toxic to pets (keep away from curious cats and dogs)
-
Skill Level
Easy Care
-
Trailing Support & Propagation
As a climbing and trailing plant, you can let it cascade beautifully from a shelf or give it a moss pole to climb! To keep it looking full and gorgeous, keep an eye out for any common pests and pinch them off early. Track your newest leaves to see how the plant is feeling—if the new growth comes in strong, clean, and beautifully fenestrated, you're on the perfect track!

