Exploring the Characteristics and Variants of Monstera Adansonii with Smooth Leaves

Introduction to Monstera Adansonii with Smooth Leaves

The form of Monstera adansonii that is known for having smooth leaves is often referred to as Monstera adansonii Friedrichsthalii or sometimes simply as the “Friedrichsthalii variant”. Unlike the more common form of Monstera adansonii, which features the characteristic holes or fenestrations in its leaves, this variant has leaves that are solid and smooth without the typical perforations. This form is less common and can be sought after by collectors for its unique appearance.

Differences Between Monstera Adansonii and Monstera Acuminata

Monstera Acuminata is an evergreen hemiepiphyte climber, often referred to as the "shingle plant," from the family Araceae. This species grows up to 20 meters in length with elegant, smooth, and iridescent leaves. When compared to Monstera adansonii, the leaves of Acuminata are smaller and smoother.

Botanical Classification

Both Monstera adansonii and Monstera acuminata belong to the same genus, Monstera, and share the same Monocots order. Here is a detailed botanical classification of Monstera acuminata:

Kingdom: Plantae Clade: Tracheophytes Clade: Angiosperms Clade: Monocots Order: Alismatales Family: Araceae Genus: Monstera Species: M. acuminata

Description of Monstera Acuminata

Monstera acuminata germinates in the ground and grows horizontally as a low prostrate herb. The juvenile plant is much smaller and heart-shaped, with thick roundish waxy leaves that grow in two ranks and overlap each other, with the stem elliptic in cross-section and internodes 1–5 cm long and asymmetric leaves.

When it encounters a tree trunk, it uses its ageotropic anchoring roots to grow vertically. The adult plant appears similar to that of Monstera deliciosa and these leaves are developed when the plant reaches 15 feet, exemplifying dimorphism. The leaves are smooth or papillose, stem 2–3.5 cm thick with internodes 6–11 cm long.

After it grows upwards, the base of the stem of the hemiepiphyte dies and rots, thereby losing its connection to the soil.

Significance of Monstera Adansonii with Smooth Leaves

The presence of Monstera adansonii Friedrichsthalii is noteworthy for its collectors and enthusiasts due to its distinctive smooth leaves. This plant is less common in nature and therefore more sought after for its unique aesthetic appeal. Its rarity adds value to the plant and makes it a prized addition to any plant collection.

Conclusion

Different forms of Monstera adansonii, such as Monstera adansonii Friedrichsthalii and Monstera acuminata, offer diverse and unique characteristics that make them fascinating for plant enthusiasts. Understanding the differences between these plants and their botanical classifications can help in appreciating the beauty and variety of this unique group of plants.