The answer to whether Monstera adansonii is a Philodendron is no. These popular houseplants belong to the same broader plant family but represent two separate groups. Both Monstera adansonii, frequently called the Swiss Cheese Vine, and various Philodendron species are prized for their lush, tropical foliage and vining growth habits. Their shared traits and overlapping common names are the primary reasons for the frequent confusion among houseplant enthusiasts.
The Definitive Taxonomic Answer
The classification of Monstera adansonii and Philodendron rests on the scientific hierarchy of plant names. Both plants belong to the Araceae family, commonly known as the aroid or arum family, which contains many popular indoor plants. Moving down the taxonomic ladder, they diverge into distinct genera, the classification level just above species. Monstera adansonii belongs to the genus Monstera, while the plants it is often confused with belong to the genus Philodendron.
A genus is a grouping of closely related species that share fundamental structural and genetic characteristics. The separation of these two plants into different genera means they are not closely enough related to be considered the same kind of plant. This distinction is the botanical reason they exhibit different physical traits.
Essential Physical Distinctions
While both plants are vining aroids, consistent morphological features allow for clear identification.
Fenestrations
The most noticeable difference is the presence of fenestrations, the holes that develop in the leaves of Monstera adansonii as it matures. Philodendron species do not naturally develop these enclosed holes. A Philodendron leaf may have deep cuts or lobes, but these only reach the leaf margin, creating a split rather than an enclosed perforation.
New Growth Structure
The new growth structure offers another reliable way to tell the two genera apart. Philodendron species produce a papery sheath called a cataphyll that protects the emerging new leaf. This cataphyll dries up and falls off after the leaf unfurls. Monstera species do not form a distinct cataphyll; instead, the new leaf emerges from a petiole sheath, an extension of the previous leaf’s stem.
Growth Habit
Differences in growth habit are also evident in mature plants. Monstera adansonii is a vigorous climber that uses its aerial roots to anchor itself firmly to a support structure. While many Philodendron species are vining, others grow in a more self-heading or shrub-like manner. The leaves of Monstera adansonii are smaller with oval, enclosed holes, whereas many vining Philodendron leaves are typically heart-shaped and lack fenestrations.
Sources of Confusion in the Plant Trade
The primary reason for the widespread confusion between Monstera and Philodendron is the inconsistent use of common names in the retail environment. The term “Split-Leaf Philodendron” is frequently, yet incorrectly, used to refer to Monstera deliciosa, a larger relative of Monstera adansonii. This misnomer has been used for so long by growers and retailers that it has become an accepted, though botanically inaccurate, trade name.
Another element is the juvenile appearance of the plants. Young, immature Monstera adansonii plants have small, entire leaves that lack the characteristic holes and closely resemble the leaves of many vining Philodendron species. Since most plants are sold when they are still small, the lack of distinguishing fenestrations makes it nearly impossible for an inexperienced buyer to tell them apart. The close visual similarity and the fact that both genera require similar care conditions contribute to them being mentally grouped together by the general public.