Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera Deliciosa)

Monkey Mask Plant (Monstera Adansonii)

 

The Monkey Mask Plant, scientifically known as Monstera Adansonii, is a popular houseplant often confused with the larger Monstera Deliciosa, but it has its own unique charm. This plant is known for its heart-shaped leaves with distinctive holes and notches, giving it a playful and exotic character that enhances any interior. Its slender, climbing growth habit makes it an attractive addition to both modern and tropical living spaces.

 

Care:

 

• Light: Place the Monkey Mask Plant in a spot with bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s important to choose a bright but shaded location.
• Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but ensure the plant doesn’t sit in water. Allow the top layer of the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In winter, the plant requires less water, so adjust watering frequency according to environmental conditions.
• Temperature and humidity: The Monkey Mask Plant thrives at room temperature, between 18-24°C (65-75°F), and prefers moderate humidity. In dry air, the leaves may develop brown tips or drop off. Regular misting can help, especially in dry environments or during winter months when humidity levels are often lower.
• Nutrition: Feed the plant once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). This supports healthy growth and ensures the plant maintains its lush, decorative foliage.
• Support: As the Monkey Mask Plant is a climber, it may benefit from a support structure such as a moss pole or other climbing support. This helps the plant develop its natural vertical growth habit.

 

With the right care, the Monstera Adansonii will grow into a beautiful, lush houseplant that adds an exotic flair and playful charm to your home.

 

 

About the Botanical Garden Zuidas

 

The Botanical Garden Zuidas, known before August 2016 as Hortus Botanicus Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, is a botanical garden in Amsterdam South.

 

The garden is located between the hospital and the university campus at Van der Boechorststraat number 8. The fence, made by artist Ruud-Jan Kokke, forms the entrance to the garden. The garden is maintained by permanent employees with the help of volunteers.

 

The garden was originally established in 1967 as a system garden of the Vrije Universiteit, in which the plants were organized by relationship. It was designed by the renowned Amstelveen parks manager C.P. Broerse and consisted of an outdoor area and a greenhouse complex. The outdoor area features a fern garden and a Chinese penjing-style garden. The greenhouse complex includes a tropical greenhouse, currently converted into a winter garden, and a succulent greenhouse.

 

Cacti

The Zuidas Botanical Garden manages a number of collections that are registered with the National Plant Collection Foundation (SNP), including the most extensive collection of cacti in the Netherlands, succulents, hardy ferns and orchids. The cactus collection is impressive with genera such as Mammillaria, Opuntia, Copiapoa and Echinopsis side by side in a packed greenhouse. There is also an unheated greenhouse with somewhat hardy cacti. The flowering period starts in May, after they are first watered, until August. Many cacti are protected and threatened with extinction and are therefore on the red list.

 

Penjing

The Botanical garden is the only one in the Netherlands to have a collection of penjing and bonsai, a gift from 1982 from the then director of the Floriade. Penjing is a Chinese art form that uses miniature stones and plants to portray nature in a concentrated form. Penjing has been practiced in China for over 2,000 years – at least 800 years before Japan copied the art and gained worldwide fame with bonsai. The bonsai in the Botanical garden can only be admired in the summer months, when they are placed outside. The penjing stones, modeled after centuries-old traditions, are permanently on display: part of the complex is designed as a Chinese garden.

 

Welcome to the garden

Over time, the Hortus has become less important from a scientific point of view (for research and education at the Vrije Universiteit). However, the Botanical Garden has not lost its importance as a beautiful attraction. In this green oasis between the hospital and the Free University, you as an employee can escape the hectic pace of everyday life.

 

The Zuidas Botanical Garden is freely accessible from Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.