Easy to Moderate
Swiss Cheese Vine
Scientific Name
Monstera adansonii
Family
Araceae
Native Region
Rainforests of Central and South America
Growth Rate
Fast
Origin + Story
'Swiss Cheese' is used for two different plants: Monstera deliciosa, the large-leaf classic with split fenestrations, and Monstera adansonii, the smaller trailing vine with hole-like fenestrations. This profile is for the trailing M. adansonii. The deliciosa is its own listing.
Native to the rainforests of Central and South America. A natural climber, using aerial roots to scale trees in search of light.
Heart-shaped leaves with elongated holes that develop with maturity. Trails beautifully or climbs a moss pole. The vines get long, fast.
Grows well in hanging planters, on moss poles, on bookshelves, anywhere with vertical real estate.
Care guide
Light: Bright indirect light. Tolerates medium.
Water: When the top inch is dry.
Humidity: 50% or higher. Bigger holes with more humidity.
Temperature: 65 to 80°F.
Soil: Chunky aroid mix. Bark, perlite, coco coir, a touch of charcoal.
Growth Rate: Fast.
Detailed care
Light
Bright, indirect. Tolerates medium light, but fenestrations develop better with more.
Watering
Top inch dry, then water thoroughly. Don't let it dry out completely.
Humidity
50% and up. Higher humidity equals bigger holes.
Soil
Chunky aroid mix. Bark, perlite, coco coir, a touch of charcoal.
Feeding
Monthly during the growing season.
Common Issues
Solid leaves with no holes: Not enough light, or the plant is still young.
Yellowing: Overwatering.
Leggy growth: Reaching for light.
Grows well with
Plants that share a trait: same family, similar care, or complementary aesthetics.
