What To Know
- In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Monstera deliciosa vs Swiss cheese, examining their similarities and differences, and helping you decide which plant is right for you.
- The Swiss cheese plant is a slower-growing plant than the Monstera deliciosa.
- The Monstera deliciosa is a larger plant with more dramatic leaves, while the Swiss cheese plant is a smaller plant with more delicate leaves.
The world of indoor plants is vast and diverse, with countless species to choose from. Two of the most popular and beloved plants are the Monstera deliciosa and the Swiss cheese plant. Both plants are known for their large, striking leaves, but there are some key differences between them. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Monstera deliciosa vs Swiss cheese, examining their similarities and differences, and helping you decide which plant is right for you.
Origin and History
Monstera deliciosa: Native to Central and South America, the Monstera deliciosa is a tropical vine that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It was first introduced to Europe in the 18th century and has since become a popular houseplant all over the world.
Swiss cheese plant: Also known as the Monstera adansonii, the Swiss cheese plant is native to the rainforests of Central and South America. It’s a smaller plant than the Monstera deliciosa, typically growing to a height of 3-6 feet. It was introduced to Europe in the 19th century and has also become a popular houseplant.
Appearance
Monstera deliciosa: The Monstera deliciosa is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with deep lobes and perforations. The leaves can grow up to 2 feet long and wide, and they’re a beautiful shade of dark green.
Swiss cheese plant: The Swiss cheese plant has smaller leaves than the Monstera deliciosa, but they’re just as striking. The leaves are also heart-shaped, but they have more rounded lobes and smaller perforations. The leaves are a lighter shade of green than the Monstera deliciosa, and they often have a variegated pattern.
Growth Habits
Monstera deliciosa: The Monstera deliciosa is a fast-growing plant that can quickly outgrow its pot. It’s important to provide it with a sturdy support structure, such as a trellis or moss pole, to help it grow upright.
Swiss cheese plant: The Swiss cheese plant is a slower-growing plant than the Monstera deliciosa. It’s also more compact, making it a good choice for smaller spaces.
Light Requirements
Monstera deliciosa: The Monstera deliciosa prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate low light conditions, but it won’t grow as quickly or produce as many leaves.
Swiss cheese plant: The Swiss cheese plant prefers bright, indirect light, but it can also tolerate low light conditions. It’s a good choice for rooms that don’t get a lot of natural light.
Water Requirements
Monstera deliciosa: The Monstera deliciosa prefers to be watered regularly, but it’s important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Swiss cheese plant: The Swiss cheese plant prefers to be watered less frequently than the Monstera deliciosa. It’s important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Monstera deliciosa: The Monstera deliciosa benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Swiss cheese plant: The Swiss cheese plant also benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Toxicity
Monstera deliciosa: The Monstera deliciosa is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and stomach.
Swiss cheese plant: The Swiss cheese plant is also toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and stomach.
Summary: Monstera Deliciosa vs Swiss Cheese
The Monstera deliciosa and the Swiss cheese plant are both beautiful and easy-to-care-for plants that make excellent additions to any home. The Monstera deliciosa is a larger plant with more dramatic leaves, while the Swiss cheese plant is a smaller plant with more delicate leaves. Ultimately, the best plant for you will depend on your personal preferences and the size of your space.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which plant is easier to care for, the Monstera deliciosa or the Swiss cheese plant?
A: Both plants are relatively easy to care for, but the Swiss cheese plant is slightly more tolerant of neglect.
Q: Which plant is more toxic to pets?
A: Both plants are toxic to pets if ingested, but the Monstera deliciosa is more toxic than the Swiss cheese plant.
Q: Can I grow these plants outdoors?
A: Yes, both plants can be grown outdoors in warm climates. However, they need to be protected from direct sunlight and frost.
