Welcome to the enchanting world of Monstera plants, where lush foliage and unique patterns reign supreme. These captivating houseplants have taken the world by storm, capturing the hearts of plant enthusiasts and interior designers alike. Their striking leaves, adorned with natural holes and slits, add an irresistible touch of the tropics to any space.
But did you know that there’s more than one type of Monstera to explore?
In this article, we’ll dive into the mesmerizing realm of Monsteras, uncovering the fascinating diversity that lies within this beloved genus.
From the ever-popular Monstera deliciosa to the rare and sought-after Monstera obliqua, prepare to embark on a botanical journey that will leave you yearning to add more of these stunning specimens to your indoor jungle.
So, let’s get started and discover the different types of Monstera plants that await your green thumb.
Tips for Growing and Caring for Monstera Plants
Monstera plants, with their stunning and unique foliage, have become a favorite among plant enthusiasts. These tropical plants are easy to care for and can add a touch of the exotic to your home. Here, we’ll discuss tips for growing and caring for Monstera plants, ensuring they stay healthy and vibrant.
Light Requirements
Monstera plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They can tolerate lower light conditions, but their growth will slow, and the characteristic holes in their leaves may not develop.
Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it’s essential to find a spot with just the right amount of light.
If your Monstera is not getting enough light, you may need to move it closer to a window or consider supplementing with a grow light.
Watering and Humidity
As tropical plants, Monsteras love moisture but don’t appreciate sitting in wet soil.
Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common issue with Monstera plants.
To ensure adequate humidity, mist your plant regularly, or place it on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Maintaining a humidity level of 40-60% will help your Monstera thrive.
Pruning and Propagation
Regular pruning will help maintain your Monstera’s size and encourage bushier growth.
Remove any yellow or damaged leaves, and trim back any long aerial roots that may be getting in the way.
Propagating Monstera plants is relatively easy – simply take a stem cutting with at least one node and place it in a glass of water or directly into soil.
In a few weeks, roots will develop, and you’ll have a new Monstera plant to enjoy.
Common Pests and Diseases
Monsteras are generally pest-resistant, but they can still fall victim to common houseplant pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
Inspect your plant regularly and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot, caused by overwatering, is the most common disease affecting Monstera plants.
Prevent this by ensuring your plant has proper drainage and only watering when the top layer of soil is dry.
18 Different Types of Monstera Plants to Grow Indoors
Monstera deliciosa – Swiss Cheese Plant
Have you ever laid eyes on the iconic Swiss Cheese Plant? With its large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves, each adorned with unique splits and holes, it’s no wonder Monstera deliciosa has become a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts. Hailing from the tropical rainforests of Central America, this beauty brings a touch of the wild indoors, making your space feel like a lush oasis.
As the plant matures, it develops large aerial roots, giving it an impressive appearance. To care for your Monstera deliciosa, provide it with bright, indirect light, and water it thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant can grow up to 10 feet indoors, so it’s a good idea to provide support with a moss pole or trellis.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 10 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Easy
Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo-Variegata’
Imagine a stunning twist on the classic Swiss Cheese Plant, with leaves featuring a captivating blend of green and creamy white. That’s Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo-Variegata’ for you! This rare gem adds a splash of visual interest to any room with its striking variegated foliage. Just like its parent plant, it’s native to Central America and thrives in similar conditions.
Like the standard Monstera deliciosa, it appreciates extra support to help it grow tall and strong. When caring for this plant, keep it in bright, indirect light, and be cautious of direct sunlight, as it can scorch the delicate variegated leaves. Water it thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. As the plant matures, it can reach up to 10 feet indoors, so providing a moss pole or trellis for support is essential.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 10 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’
Do you love plants with a touch of celestial magic? Then, Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ might just be your perfect match. This enchanting variety has leaves speckled with beautiful cream and yellow markings, resembling a constellation of stars in a verdant night sky. Another Central American native, this stunner shares the same care requirements as the standard Monstera deliciosa.
To care for the ‘Thai Constellation,’ place it in bright, indirect light, and protect it from direct sunlight, which can scorch the variegated leaves. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Like other Monstera deliciosa varieties, it can grow up to 10 feet indoors and will benefit from support, such as a moss pole or trellis.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 10 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera adansonii – Swiss Cheese Vine or Five Holes Plant
Meet the Swiss Cheese Vine, Monstera adansonii, a charming relative of the Swiss Cheese Plant. With smaller, more delicate leaves adorned with evenly spaced holes, it’s like the daintier cousin of Monstera deliciosa. As a vining plant, it loves to sprawl across shelves or cascade from hanging baskets, adding a sense of tropical flair to your space. Native to Central and South America, it thrives in similar conditions as its larger counterpart.
When caring for your Monstera adansonii, provide it with bright, indirect light and water it regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This plant can grow up to 8 feet indoors, and it’s essential to provide a moss pole or trellis for support. Regular misting can help maintain the humidity levels that this tropical plant loves.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 8 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Easy to moderate
Monstera adansonii ‘Variegata’
Wouldn’t it be delightful to have a Swiss Cheese Vine with a twist? Enter Monstera adansonii ‘Variegata’, a striking plant with leaves showcasing a mix of green and cream hues. This variegated beauty shares the same origin and care preferences as the standard Monstera adansonii, making it a perfect addition for those who love a little variety in their plant collection.
Like the non-variegated version, this plant loves bright, indirect light, and should be protected from direct sunlight to avoid scorching the leaves. Water it regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and provide a moss pole or trellis to support its climbing growth habit. The Monstera adansonii ‘Variegata’ can grow up to 8 feet indoors, and it appreciates a humid environment, so misting regularly is recommended.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 8 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera borsigiana – a variant of Monstera deliciosa, sometimes called Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’
Let’s talk about Monstera borsigiana, a close relative of Monstera deliciosa that shares many of its stunning characteristics. With slightly smaller leaves and a faster growth rate, this variant is often mistaken for its more famous cousin. Originating from the same tropical locales as Monstera deliciosa, it enjoys the same care routine and brings a similar sense of jungle charm to your home.
Native to Central America, this plant thrives in bright, indirect light and appreciates thorough watering, with the soil allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Monstera borsigiana can grow up to 10 feet indoors and benefits from the support of a moss pole or trellis. Regular misting can help maintain the humidity levels it prefers.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 10 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Easy
Monstera standleyana – Five Holes Plant, Cobra Plant
Have you ever come across a plant with leaves so unique, they resemble the hood of a cobra? That’s Monstera standleyana for you! Also known as the Five Holes Plant or Cobra Plant, this fascinating species is native to Central America. With long, slender leaves featuring a row of perforations along the midrib, it’s sure to draw attention and spark conversation.
To care for your Monstera standleyana, provide it with bright, indirect light, and water it regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This plant can grow up to 8 feet indoors and will benefit from a moss pole or trellis for support. Keep it in a humid environment by misting regularly or using a pebble tray.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 8 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera siltepecana – Silver Monstera
Picture a Monstera plant with a touch of shimmering silver. That’s Monstera siltepecana, a splendid species with gorgeous, elongated leaves adorned with intricate silver veining. This captivating variety is native to the rainforests of Central and South America, where it enjoys a life of climbing and sprawling. The Silver Monstera adds a touch of metallic elegance to your indoor plant collection, all while sharing the same care preferences as its Monstera counterparts.
Just like its Monstera cousins, it thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Be sure to water it regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant can grow up to 6 feet indoors and will appreciate a moss pole or trellis to support its climbing growth habit. To maintain the humidity levels it prefers, mist the leaves regularly or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 6 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera obliqua – Window Leaf Monstera
Ready for an unusual and mesmerizing Monstera variety? Meet Monstera obliqua, the Window Leaf Monstera. Boasting delicate, paper-thin leaves punctuated with an abundance of tiny holes, this rarity stands out from its relatives. Hailing from the tropical regions of South America, it requires the same care and attention as other Monstera species but offers a one-of-a-kind aesthetic to your plant collection.
Due to its rarity and unique appearance, Monstera obliqua can be quite expensive and challenging to find. It requires bright, indirect light and prefers a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera obliqua regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This plant can grow up to 10 feet indoors and will need a moss pole or trellis for support. Maintain humidity levels by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 10 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate to Advanced
Monstera dubia – Shingle Plant
Ever seen a Monstera that hugs the surface it’s climbing? That’s Monstera dubia, the fascinating Shingle Plant. As a juvenile, this species produces small, heart-shaped leaves that lay flat against the surface they’re climbing, giving the appearance of shingles. As it matures, its leaves become larger and develop fenestrations, much like its other Monstera relatives. With its origins in Central and South America, it shares the same care requirements as other Monsteras, making it a unique addition to your indoor jungle.
As it matures, the leaves become larger, with fenestrations similar to other Monstera species. Monstera dubia requires bright, indirect light and a well-draining soil mix. Water it regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This plant can grow up to 6 feet indoors and will need a moss pole or trellis to support its climbing habit. To maintain the humidity levels it prefers, mist the leaves regularly or place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 6 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera pinnatipartita
Monstera pinnatipartita is a striking species with elongated, segmented leaves that can reach impressive sizes. The deep green leaves display a ribbed texture, adding depth and dimension to your plant collection. Native to the tropical forests of Colombia and Ecuador, this gorgeous Monstera variety shares the same care preferences as its cousins, ensuring it will thrive alongside your other indoor plants.
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera pinnatipartita regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. As a climbing plant, it can grow up to 8 feet indoors and will appreciate a moss pole or trellis for support. Keep the humidity levels up by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier in the room.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 8 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera karstenianum – a.k.a Monstera ‘Peru’
Introducing Monstera ‘Peru’, a remarkable Monstera species also known as Monstera karstenianum. Its dark green, corrugated leaves feature a unique, rippled texture that sets it apart from other Monstera varieties. Hailing from the rainforests of Peru, this intriguing species enjoys the same care and growing conditions as its relatives, making it an alluring addition to any Monstera lover’s collection.
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera ‘Peru’ regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This climbing plant can grow up to 6 feet indoors and will benefit from a moss pole or trellis for support. To maintain the humidity levels it prefers, mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 6 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera subpinnata
Make way for Monstera subpinnata, an eye-catching species that sports elongated, deeply lobed leaves. The vibrant green foliage brings a sense of tropical exuberance to any indoor space. Originating from the rainforests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama, this exceptional variety shares the same care preferences as its Monstera relatives, ensuring that it will flourish in your indoor plant collection.
Monstera subpinnata thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water it regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This climbing plant can grow up to 6 feet indoors and will need a moss pole or trellis for support. Maintain humidity levels by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier in the room.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 6 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera lechleriana
If you’re seeking a Monstera with a distinct look, Monstera lechleriana may be the perfect fit. This striking species features elongated, glossy leaves adorned with intricate patterns of slits and holes. Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, it thrives under the same care conditions as its Monstera counterparts, making it a captivating addition to any plant enthusiast’s collection.
The plant prefers bright, indirect light and a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera lechleriana regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This climbing species can reach up to 5 feet indoors and will appreciate a moss pole or trellis for support. To maintain the high humidity levels it enjoys, mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier in the room.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 5 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera xanthospatha
Monstera xanthospatha is a rare gem that boasts elongated, arrow-shaped leaves with intriguing fenestrations. Its glossy, deep green foliage provides a touch of elegance and tropical allure to your indoor space. Hailing from the rainforests of Central and South America, it shares the same care preferences as other Monstera species, ensuring it will thrive among your cherished indoor plants.
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera xanthospatha regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. As a climbing species, it can grow up to 5 feet indoors and will benefit from a moss pole or trellis for support. Keep the humidity levels up by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier in the room.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 5 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera spruceana
Meet Monstera spruceana, a fascinating species that features elongated, heart-shaped leaves with a unique, quilted texture. The captivating green foliage adds depth and dimension to your plant collection, creating a lush, tropical atmosphere. Native to the rainforests of Central and South America, this remarkable Monstera variety shares the same care preferences as its cousins, making it a fabulous addition to your indoor jungle.
The plant prefers bright, indirect light and a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera spruceana regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This climbing plant can grow up to 5 feet indoors and will need a moss pole or trellis for support. To maintain the humidity levels it prefers, mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 5 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera dissecta
Monstera dissecta is an uncommon, alluring species that boasts deeply lobed, fan-shaped leaves. The intriguing foliage adds an air of exotic sophistication to any indoor plant collection. With its origins in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, Monstera dissecta thrives under the same care conditions as other Monstera species, making it a stunning and unique addition to your indoor garden.
The plant prefers bright, indirect light and a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera dissecta regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. As a climbing plant, it can grow up to 5 feet indoors and will benefit from a moss pole or trellis for support. To maintain the high humidity levels it loves, mist the leaves regularly or use a humidifier in the room.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 5 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
Monstera acuminata
Last but not least, Monstera acuminata showcases elongated, heart-shaped leaves with delicate, irregular fenestrations. The deep green, glossy foliage brings a tropical charm to any indoor space. Hailing from the rainforests of Central and South America, this enchanting Monstera variety shares the same care preferences as its relatives, ensuring it will flourish in your indoor plant collection.
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. Water your Monstera acuminata regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. As a climbing species, it can grow up to 5 feet indoors and will appreciate a moss pole or trellis for support. Keep the humidity levels up by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier in the room.
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings
- Mature size: Up to 5 feet indoors
- Care difficulty: Moderate
FAQ
What is the difference between Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii?
Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, has large, glossy leaves with deep splits and holes, while Monstera adansonii, known as the Swiss Cheese Vine or Five Holes Plant, has smaller leaves with more delicate, evenly spaced holes.
Monstera deliciosa tends to grow upwards and may need support as it matures, while Monstera adansonii is a vining plant that grows more horizontally and looks great on shelves or in hanging baskets.
How do I know if my Monstera needs more light or water?
If your Monstera’s leaves are turning yellow and the soil is consistently wet, it may be receiving too much water. If the leaves are curling, turning brown at the tips, or if the plant’s growth is slow, it may need more light. Ensure that your Monstera is placed in a bright, indirect light area and water it only when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch.
Why are the leaves on my Monstera turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or a lack of nutrients. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Also, consider adding a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide necessary nutrients.
How do I support my Monstera as it grows larger?
To support a larger Monstera, you can use a moss pole, trellis, or another type of support structure. Secure the plant’s aerial roots and stems to the support using soft ties or clips, allowing it to climb and spread out as it grows.
What is the best type of soil for Monstera plants?
Monstera plants thrive in well-draining, peat-based potting mix with a good amount of perlite or orchid bark to promote aeration. This type of soil helps prevent overwatering and root rot while providing necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Is Monstera toxic to pets?
Yes, Monstera plants are toxic to pets. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract when ingested. Keep your Monstera plants out of reach of pets to avoid potential harm.
When should I repot my Monstera?
You should repot your Monstera when it becomes root-bound or when the roots begin to grow out of the drainage holes of the pot. This typically occurs every 2 to 3 years. When repotting, choose a new pot that is 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot, and use fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Conclusion
As we conclude our fascinating journey through the diverse world of Monstera plants, it’s clear that these captivating beauties offer something for everyone. With their striking foliage, intriguing growth habits, and varying care requirements, there’s a Monstera for every type of plant lover. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your indoor plant adventure, there’s always room for another Monstera in your botanical haven.
We hope that our comprehensive guide to the different types of Monstera plants has sparked your curiosity and inspired you to expand your plant family. By understanding the unique characteristics and care needs of each species, you can create a thriving environment for these delightful plants. So, don’t hesitate to invite one—or several—of these stunning Monsteras into your home, and watch as they transform your space into a lush, tropical oasis. Happy growing!