If you’ve ever come across a plant with holes in its leaves that look like tiny love bites, you’ve likely met the broken heart plant. Its botanical name is monstera adansonii, but it’s the romantic nickname that captures hearts everywhere. Whether you’re a newbie to indoor gardening or already have a leafy crew on your windowsill, this plant is an absolute stunner and surprisingly easy to care for.
Let’s take a friendly dive into what makes the broken heart plant special, how to care for it, and why it deserves a cozy spot in your home.
What is a Broken Heart Plant?
You may have seen this charming green buddy climbing up trellises or hanging in baskets with its dramatic, holey leaves trailing down. The broken heart plant is scientifically called monstera adansonii and is a close cousin to the popular Monstera Deliciosa (you know, the one with the giant split leaves).
What gives it the nickname “broken heart” is its adorable perforated leaves that look like someone poked neat holes into them. These natural cuts are called fenestrations, and they’re not just for show—they help the plant handle heavy rains and winds in its natural habitat, the tropical forests of Central and South America.
While monstera adansonii is often admired for its aesthetic, it also brings a calm, fresh vibe to any indoor space.
Why is Everyone Obsessed With It?
The broken heart plant has a vibe. It’s minimalist yet bold. Its Swiss-cheese-like leaves look almost too perfect to be real, and yet they thrive even in ordinary apartments.
Here’s why people love it:
- It grows fast and vines beautifully.
- It’s easy to maintain with the right conditions.
- It adds an exotic, tropical look to your space.
- It can be grown as a hanging plant or trained to climb.
If you’re someone who’s been fascinated by the dramatic looks of the Gulmohar Plant or the calming presence of the Vervain Plant, you’ll find the broken heart plant equally mesmerizing.
Monstera Adansonii Care: How to Keep Your Plant Happy
Caring for a monstera adansonii is simpler than you might think. Here’s a quick guide to help your plant thrive and grow lush.
1. Light: Bright but Indirect is Best
Start by placing your broken heart plant in a spot with bright, indirect light. It doesn’t like harsh sun rays hitting it directly, as they can scorch its leaves.
A north or east-facing window works great. If you only have a sunny spot, consider adding a light Invisible Grill to diffuse the sunlight and protect your green friend.
2. Water: Keep It Slightly Moist
Think of this plant like a coffee lover—it doesn’t want to be drowned, just sipped regularly.
- Water it when the top inch of the soil feels dry.
- Don’t let it sit in standing water, as it’s prone to root rot.
- During summer, it’ll need more frequent watering compared to winter.
3. Humidity: The More, the Merrier
Being a tropical plant, monstera adansonii loves a humid environment. If your home is on the drier side:
- Use a pebble tray with water.
- Mist the leaves occasionally.
- Keep it near a humidifier if needed.
If you’re growing something like the Sampangi Plant, you’ll notice they both enjoy similar humidity levels.
4. Soil: Light and Airy
The broken heart plant likes a potting mix that retains some moisture but still drains well. You can mix regular indoor soil with a bit of orchid bark and perlite to make it airy.
5. Feeding: A Little Boost Never Hurts
Fertilize once a month during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer. No need in winter—it likes to rest.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even the best relationships have their rough patches. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common issues with your broken heart plant.
Yellow Leaves? You might be overwatering. Let the soil dry a bit before the next round.
Brown Crispy Tips? That’s often a sign of low humidity. Try misting more often.
No Fenestrations? If your new leaves are solid and hole-free, the plant might not be getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot.
How to Propagate Your Broken Heart Plant?
Want more plants without spending a dime? Good news—monstera adansonii is super easy to propagate.
- Snip a healthy stem with a few nodes (the bumps where leaves and roots grow).
- Place it in water or moist soil.
- In a few weeks, you’ll see roots sprouting.
- Transfer it to a pot once the roots are a few inches long.
Propagation is fun, and it’s a great way to share your plant love with friends—just like you would with your Jade Plant babies.
Fun Facts About the Broken Heart Plant
Before we wrap up, here are some quirky tidbits:
- In the wild, this plant can grow up trees and reach over 10 feet!
- It’s a part of the Araceae family, which also includes the peace lily and philodendron.
- Despite its tropical nature, it adapts surprisingly well to indoor environments.
- Its fenestrations might develop more as the plant matures. If you enjoy learning about interesting plants like the Daisy Flower or Marikolunthu Plant, the broken heart plant definitely deserves a spot on your list.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a houseplant that’s equal parts beauty and ease, the broken heart plant is a winner. With its elegant holes, climbing habits, and forgiving nature, it’s perfect for plant newbies and seasoned green thumbs alike. It adds character to your home, improves air quality, and starts conversations. What more could you ask for?
Just remember the basics of monstera adansonii care, and your leafy friend will reward you with vibrant growth and those iconic holey leaves. So the next time you spot this plant in a nursery or a friend’s home, you’ll know—it’s not just a pretty face, it’s a symbol of resilience and charm.
