19 Different Types of Monstera | Most Popular Varieties to Grow
Today, we’re going to delve into the fascinating world of Monstera plants! These plants come in a wide variety of types, each with its own special characteristics. Some are rare finds, while others are more commonly seen.
Its standout feature lies in its giant leaves, which boast unique holes resembling the patterns found in Swiss cheese. These extraordinary leaves add a touch of charm and natural beauty to any indoor space. Let’s embark on this journey together and explore the remarkable world of Monstera plants!
Swiss Cheese Plant (Scientific Name: Monstera deliciosa)
Plant Type: Flowering plant
Plant Size: 3-5 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial sun
Plant Zone: 10
Monstera deliciosa is a popular Swiss Cheese Plant found in stores and admired for its striking foliage.
It thrives in low to medium light and has leaves with both splits and holes.
It’s often confused with split-leaf philodendrons, but Monstera deliciosa stands out with its unique combination of holes and splits in the leaves.
Repotting and Pruning Tips for Swiss Cheese Plants
To repot, simply move the plant into a slightly larger pot using a well-draining potting soil mix that includes compost and peat.
Before placing the plant in the new pot, gently loosen the roots to encourage healthy growth. These plants can be top-heavy, so providing support is important.
If you want to train your Swiss Cheese Plant to climb a moss pole, now is the perfect time to do so. Insert the moss pole into the pot and secure the stems to it using string or pantyhose. Remember to mist the moss pole regularly.
After repotting, make sure to water your Swiss cheese plant thoroughly.
To keep its growth in check, pruning is necessary. Trim back the plant whenever it becomes too tall or when you need to manage unruly aerial roots, especially if it’s climbing a moss pole.
Propagating Swiss Cheese Plants
Swiss cheese plants can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, or suckers, although cuttings and suckers are more commonly used.
For Swiss cheese plant propagation, take stem cuttings with a section of the stem intact, just after a leaf node. Remove the first leaf near the base of the cutting and plant the node in the soil.
While rooting hormone can be used, it’s not necessary. Water the cutting well and allow excess water to drain.
Alternatively, you can root the cutting in water before transferring it to a pot once roots have formed. Simply place the cutting in water for about two to three weeks, then move it to a pot filled with a rich potting soil mix.
Another way to propagate Swiss cheese plants is by wrapping damp moss around a small aerial root and leaf axil, securing it with string. Enclose this area in a clear bag with a few small air vents. Within a few months, new roots should begin to develop.
Monstera borsigiana
Plant Type: Evergreen vine
Plant Size: 2-4 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Indirect sunlight
Plant Zone: 10-11
Monstera borsigiana, also called Wrinkle Monstera, a type of Monstera deliciosa. Its foliage develops dramatic holes and splits as it matures.
Young leaves are often heart-shaped and green. Monstera borsigiana ‘albo’ has variegated leaves.
It may resemble Monstera deliciosa when young but changes as it grows.
This fast-growing stunner has slightly smaller leaves, perfect for a lush Monstera look without overwhelming your space! picture by arum_ocean
Adansonii
Plant Type: Flowering plant
Plant Size: 3-5 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial sun
Plant Zone: 10
The Swiss Cheese plant, also called Monstera adansonii, is a delightful variety that’s smaller in size compared to the Monstera deliciosa.
Its leaves are heart-shaped and have a beautiful dark green color. What makes them even more interesting are the intricate cuts and splits that adorn the foliage.
You’ll find a mix of round-shaped leaves and some with a narrower appearance, adding to the plant’s overall charm and diversity. picture by seivabrutagram
Albo Variegata
Get ready to be amazed by the beauty of this exquisite Monstera deliciosa cultivar!
It boasts enchanting white or cream variegation that effortlessly elevates any plant collection to a new level of elegance.
The allure of this white-leaved Monstera variety is so irresistible that plant enthusiasts from all corners of the world eagerly seek it out, making it highly sought after and consequently one of the most valuable houseplants out there. Picture by@plantlovers.eu
Dubia
Plant Type: Creeping vine
Plant Size: 3-10 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Partial sun
Plant Zone: 9-11
Monstera dubia, a delightful variety also referred to as the ‘Shingle plant.’
This stunning plant showcases small heart-shaped leaves adorned with a captivating pattern of light and dark green veins.
The intricate veins add a touch of natural beauty, making Monstera dubia an eye-catching addition to any plant collection.
Obliqua
Plant Type: Hemiepiphytic vine
Plant Size: 6-10 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Partial of indirect sunlight
Plant Zone: 11
Monstera obliqua, a captivating plant with a delightful twist. Its paper-thin, delicate green leaves are adorned with an abundance of holes, creating a quirky and eye-catching look.
With up to 90 percent of the leaf surface filled with holes, this variety stands out as a fascinating conversation starter.
The unique charm of Monstera obliqua makes it a must-have for any plant lover seeking an unconventional and intriguing addition to their collection. Image via Best Buds
Pinnatipartita
Monstera pinnatipartita, a distinctive plant resembling ferns with its leaf patterns. Unlike other Monstera varieties, it features slits in its leaves instead of holes.
The leaves have a stunning bright emerald color, appearing glossy. Being a climbing plant, it requires a suitable location in your home.
Consider providing a trellis to give this unique plant a suitable home.
Monstera siltepecana
Meet the Monstera siltepecana, also known as the Silver Monstera. Unlike its larger counterparts, this plant is known for its smaller size and vining growth habit.
It’s an evergreen plant with charming foliage. The new leaves emerge in beautiful blue-green hues, adorned with soft silver markings.
Just like in its natural habitat in the rainforest, this plant can climb and grow up a trellis or other support beams.
The Monstera siltepecana brings a touch of elegance and natural beauty to any indoor space.
Its compact size and vining nature make it a versatile choice for plant enthusiasts with limited space.
Whether cascading from a hanging pot or climbing up a trellis, this Silver Monstera will add a delightful touch to your home, just like it does in the wild rainforest.
Monstera Peru (Scientific Name: Monstera karstenianum)
Plant Type: Hemiepiphytic vine
Plant Size: 10-16 inches tall
Sun Exposure: Indirect light
Plant Zone: 10-12
Monstera karstenianum, commonly known as Monstera Peru, is a captivating plant that deserves attention. Its medium green leaves develop into a deep green shade as they mature. The unique feature of this plant lies in its delicate lacy veins, resembling an intricate spiderweb.
The lush green foliage with its web-like patterns creates an enchanting visual display. As the plant grows, the deep green color and intricate veining become more pronounced, adding an elegant touch to your space.
Monstera Thai Constellation
Plant Type: Flowering plant
Plant Size: 6-8 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Indirect sunlight
Plant Zone: 12
This variegated plant showcases a beautiful yellow coloration that adds a dreamy touch to its appearance. What makes it even more captivating is its ability to grow large leaves, which truly enhance its beauty. As these leaves reach their full size, they become a sight to behold, showcasing the plant’s true magnificence. The Monstera Thai Constellation is a stunning addition to any space, bringing a touch of elegance and charm with its impressive foliage. Picture by kuorgette
Mini Monstera
Plant Type: Tropical aroid
Plant Size: 4-5 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Partial or indirect sunlight
Plant Zone: 9-12
The “Mini Monstera,” a smaller variety with hole-filled leaves resembling the monstera deliciosa. Unlike other types, it grows as a vine, climbing walls and surfaces. Care is easy, but it’s sensitive to direct sunlight and prefers consistent moisture. Keep it hydrated, as drought can harm it. Enjoy the charm of this compact monstera with its unique growth and distinctive foliage. Picture by leafandpaw
Borsigiana Variegata
If you’re a fan of plants with striking foliage, then you’re in for a treat with this Monstera! Prepare to be amazed by its exquisite pure white and green leaves, creating a truly stunning display. The contrast between the white and green hues is simply breathtaking and is sure to captivate anyone who lays eyes on it. Get ready to add a touch of beauty and elegance to your plant collection with this remarkable Monstera variety! Picture by salmandaplants
Acuminata
Plant Type: Low prostrate herb
Plant Size: 6-8 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial sun
Plant Zone: 10-12
Monstera Acuminata is often mistaken for the adansonii due to their similar leaves, especially in their juvenile stage. However, Monstera Acuminata has its own unique qualities that make it stand out. With deep green leaves and slightly more delicate openings, it adds a special touch to any home or office space.
Philodendron Bipinnatifidum
Meet the delightful Lacy Tree Philodendron, also known as the Hope Philodendron! This plant belongs to the Philodendron genus and boasts large, deeply lobed leaves that can sometimes be mistaken for certain Monstera varieties.
Don’t be fooled by the similarities, though, as the Philodendron Bipinnatifidum has its own distinct charm. With its vibrant green leaves and vigorous growth, this plant is truly a sight to behold. Picture by @hortusamsterdam
Standleyana
Plant Type: Aroid climber
Plant Size: 2-5 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Indirect sunlight
Plant Zone: 9-11
Originating from Colombia and Central America, Monstera Standleyana is a delightful species that brings joy to any home. This plant showcases beautiful lance-shaped leaves adorned with charming white variegation. The combination of green and white creates an enchanting visual display, adding a touch of natural beauty to your space. Picture by @planti.goodness
Monstera esqueleto
Plant Type: Flowering plant
Plant Size: 7-14 feet tall
Sun Exposure: Indirect sunlight
Plant Zone: 12
Get ready to be amazed by this extraordinary and rare plant variety, showcasing leaves that resemble the delicate skeleton of a leaf. Its unique and striking foliage is truly captivating and is sure to spark conversations among plant enthusiasts. Picture by @nareunhan.green
Subpinnata
Monstera subpinnata offers a refreshing alternative to the typical image of a Monstera plant. While many Monstera varieties are known for their large heart-shaped leaves with unique splits, Monstera subpinnata breaks the mold with its long and lance-like leaflets. The distinct splits create an illusion of multiple leaves, redefining our perception of what a typical Monstera looks like. Picture by greenparenthood
Spruceana
Monstera spruceana, a member of the Monstera family that takes leaf fenestrations to the next level. Its leaves feature huge cuts, resembling spreading holes that give the impression of individual leaflets. While relatively rare, these Monstera varieties are increasingly available in specialty garden shops and online sellers. With similarities to Monstera subpinnata, they offer a unique and exciting addition to your Monstera collection.
