Monstera Esqueleto and Monstera Adansonii are two popular houseplants that often cause confusion due to their shared genus and fenestrated leaves. While both bring a tropical aesthetic to indoor spaces, they possess distinct characteristics. Understanding these differences helps enthusiasts properly identify and care for their plants.
Distinctive Physical Characteristics
Monstera Esqueleto and Monstera Adansonii primarily differ in their leaves. Esqueleto leaves are typically larger, more elongated, and feature a more pronounced heart shape as they mature. Adansonii leaves tend to be smaller, ranging from oval to teardrop, and often appear more uniform. Color also varies, with Esqueleto leaves being a lighter green, sometimes with a yellowish tinge, while Adansonii leaves are generally a darker green.
The fenestrations, or distinctive holes, also vary. Monstera Esqueleto displays larger, more dramatic perforations. These fenestrations often appear oblong and extend from the midrib towards the leaf’s edge, creating a skeletal or web-like pattern. The holes can become quite expansive, leading to a lacy appearance. Monstera Adansonii, conversely, has more numerous, smaller, and often oval or circular holes that are scattered across the leaf and can sometimes reach the edges.
Leaf texture and thickness also provide clear distinctions. Monstera Esqueleto leaves are notably thicker, more rigid, and possess a glossy, leathery texture. Monstera Adansonii leaves are comparatively thinner, softer, and can have a matte finish, though some forms might exhibit a slightly velvety texture.
The petiole, the stalk connecting the leaf to the stem, also shows subtle differences. While both plants have slender, long petioles, Monstera Esqueleto often features longer and sturdier petioles, supporting its larger leaves. The overall plant structure reflects these leaf characteristics; Esqueleto tends to have a more open appearance due to its large, widely spaced leaves, whereas Adansonii can appear bushier.
Care Requirements
Both Monstera Esqueleto and Monstera Adansonii thrive in similar tropical conditions, preferring bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, so placement near an east or north-facing window or a few feet from a west or south-facing window is ideal. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth or a reduction in fenestrations for both plants.
Watering practices are also similar, requiring the soil to dry out partially between waterings to prevent root rot. For Monstera Esqueleto, the top 1-2 inches of soil should dry before rewatering, while for Monstera Adansonii, the top inch is sufficient. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to significant problems for both species.
High humidity is beneficial for both plants, ideally between 60% and 80%. Low humidity can cause brown leaf tips or crispy edges. Methods to increase humidity include using a humidifier, misting, or placing the plant on a pebble tray.
A well-draining, aerated potting mix rich in organic matter is suitable for both Monstera Esqueleto and Monstera Adansonii. A blend containing peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark is often recommended. During the growing season, typically spring and summer, both plants benefit from monthly fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength.
Growth Habits and Support Needs
Monstera Esqueleto and Monstera Adansonii both exhibit vining and climbing growth habits, characteristic of their epiphytic nature in the wild. Monstera Esqueleto is known for its robust climbing tendency, using aerial roots to attach to structures. This strong climbing habit encourages the development of larger leaves and more pronounced fenestrations. When given proper vertical support like a moss pole or trellis, Esqueleto can reach impressive sizes, with leaves potentially growing up to three feet long indoors.
Monstera Adansonii also vines and climbs, and can be trained to grow upwards or allowed to trail from hanging baskets. Providing support for Adansonii can lead to larger, more mature leaves. While it can be a proficient climber, it generally grows at a faster rate than the Esqueleto. Mature Adansonii leaves can reach up to 1.5 feet in length when provided with appropriate climbing support. The overall dimensions can be substantial, with Esqueleto growing over six feet tall indoors.
Rarity, Availability, and Value
Monstera Adansonii is widely available and significantly more accessible to the average plant enthusiast. It is commonly found in most nurseries, garden centers, and online plant retailers. Its widespread availability contributes to its relatively affordable price point, with average prices often ranging between $25 and $50 for a potted plant.
Monstera Esqueleto, in contrast, is considered a rare and highly sought-after collector’s plant. Due to its rarity, it is less commonly found in standard nurseries and is typically sourced from specialty plant shops, online rare plant vendors, or plant importers.
The scarcity of Monstera Esqueleto directly impacts its market value. It commands a significantly higher price than Monstera Adansonii, often costing hundreds of dollars for even juvenile plants.