You may have heard the name Swiss Cheese Pothos, but here’s the truth: this plant isn’t actually a pothos at all. The real name is Monstera adansonii, a tropical vine famous for its unique hole-filled leaves that look like Swiss cheese.
Because it shares some similarities with pothos—like being a fast-growing vine and easy to care for—many people mix them up. In this guide, we’ll explain what makes Swiss Cheese Pothos special, how to care for it, and how it compares to true pothos.
What Is Swiss Cheese Pothos?
Swiss Cheese Pothos is the common nickname for Monstera adansonii, a plant native to Central and South America. It belongs to the same family (Araceae) as pothos and philodendrons, which is why they often get confused.
Its defining feature is its fenestrated leaves—the natural holes that develop as it matures. These holes are believed to help the plant survive in the wild by letting wind pass through and capturing more light in rainforest environments.
Swiss Cheese Pothos vs True Pothos
Although they’re often grouped together, Swiss Cheese Pothos (Monstera adansonii) and pothos are different plants. Here are the main differences:
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Leaves: Monstera adansonii has holes in its leaves, while pothos leaves are solid and smooth.
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Growth habit: Adansonii is a climbing plant that loves to grow up moss poles, while pothos usually trails down or climbs less aggressively.
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Texture: Pothos leaves are waxier, while Monstera adansonii leaves are thinner and more delicate.
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Care: Both enjoy similar conditions, but Monstera prefers slightly higher humidity.
Swiss Cheese Pothos Care Guide
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch its thin leaves, while too little light can cause leggy growth and fewer fenestrations.
Watering
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Like pothos, it doesn’t like sitting in soggy soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering will make leaves curl or droop.
Soil
Use a well-draining, rich potting mix. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark works best since it mimics the airy soil conditions of its natural habitat.
Temperature and Humidity
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Temperature: Ideal range is 65–85°F (18–29°C).
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Humidity: This plant loves humidity. If your home is dry, mist the leaves, use a humidifier, or place it in a bathroom with natural light.
Fertilizer
Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter.
Pruning and Training
Trim back long vines to encourage bushier growth. Monstera adansonii can climb if given support, such as a moss pole or trellis, or trail beautifully from a hanging basket.
Propagating Swiss Cheese Pothos
Propagation is simple and similar to pothos:
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Cut a stem just below a node, making sure it has at least one leaf and one node.
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Place the cutting in water or directly into soil.
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Roots usually develop within 2–4 weeks.
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Once the roots are about 2 inches long, pot it into well-draining soil.
This makes it easy to expand your collection or share cuttings with friends.
Common Problems and Fixes
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Yellow leaves: Usually caused by overwatering.
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Brown edges: Often due to low humidity or too much fertilizer.
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Leggy vines: Not enough light—move it closer to a window with filtered light.
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Pests: Spider mites and mealybugs can show up. Wipe leaves regularly and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
Is Swiss Cheese Pothos Toxic?
Yes, like true pothos, Monstera adansonii is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Conclusion
Even though it’s commonly called Swiss Cheese Pothos, this plant is actually Monstera adansonii. With its striking, hole-filled leaves and vining habit, it’s a showstopper in any indoor plant collection.
It’s easy to care for as long as you provide bright, indirect light, moderate watering, rich soil, and humidity. Whether you let it trail from a hanging basket or climb up a support, Swiss Cheese Pothos is sure to bring a tropical, dramatic touch to your space.
