Different Types Of Monstera Plants – Your Ultimate Guide To Choosing

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Have you ever scrolled through Instagram and stopped dead in your tracks at the sight of a stunning, sculptural leaf with dramatic holes and splits? Or maybe you’ve walked into a friend’s home and felt an instant sense of lush, tropical calm radiating from a corner plant. Chances are, you’ve had an encounter with a Monstera.

I get it. The pull is strong! But when you decide to bring one home, you quickly realize there isn’t just one “Swiss Cheese Plant.” The world of Monsteras is vast and wonderfully diverse, which can feel a little overwhelming at first. Don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place.

I promise this guide will demystify the incredible variety available and help you find the perfect leafy companion for your home and skill level. We’re about to dive into the most popular different types of monstera plants, uncover a universal care guide to help them thrive, and troubleshoot any little hiccups you might face along the way.

Let’s find your perfect Monstera match!

Why Every Gardener Needs a Monstera (The Surprising Benefits)

Before we explore the different varieties, let’s talk about why these plants are so universally loved. Beyond their show-stopping good looks, there are some real benefits of different types of monstera plants that make them a fantastic addition to any indoor garden.

  • They are Living Air Purifiers: Like many houseplants, Monsteras are workhorses when it comes to improving air quality. They help filter common indoor pollutants, giving you a fresher, cleaner space to breathe.
  • They Boost Your Mood: It’s science! Being around greenery can reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being. The vibrant green and dynamic growth of a Monstera can bring a powerful sense of life and nature indoors.
  • They’re Incredibly Rewarding: There is nothing quite like the thrill of watching a new Monstera leaf slowly unfurl. Each new leaf is a tiny victory, a sign that you’re doing something right. It’s a joy that never gets old.
  • There’s a Monstera for Every Space: Whether you have a huge, sun-drenched living room or a tiny bathroom shelf, there is a Monstera variety that will fit perfectly.

Your Guide to the Most Popular Different Types of Monstera Plants

Ready to meet the family? This is the core of our different types of monstera plants guide. While there are dozens of species, we’ll focus on the most popular and accessible ones you’re likely to encounter. Each has its own unique personality!

Monstera deliciosa: The Classic Swiss Cheese Plant

This is the icon, the plant that likely comes to mind first. Its huge, glossy, heart-shaped leaves develop deep splits (fenestrations) from the edge as it matures, giving it that classic “Swiss cheese” look. It’s a true statement piece.

Best for: Beginners and anyone wanting a large, impactful plant that can anchor a room.

Pro-Tip: M. deliciosa loves to climb! If you give it a moss pole or trellis, it will reward you with bigger, more fenestrated leaves as it grows upwards, mimicking its natural jungle habitat.

Monstera adansonii: The Charming ‘Monkey Mask’

Unlike its bigger cousin, the M. adansonii has holes that form in the middle of the leaf, rather than splits from the edge. It’s a vining plant with a playful, delicate appearance that’s earned it the nickname ‘Monkey Mask’.

Best for: Hanging baskets, trailing from a high shelf, or training up a small support. It’s perfect for smaller spaces.

Pro-Tip: This variety can be a bit more sensitive to overwatering. A key tip is to always let the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out completely between waterings to avoid yellow leaves.

Monstera Albo Variegata: The Coveted Collector’s Plant

Prepare for sticker shock, but also for breathtaking beauty. The ‘Albo’ is a variegated form of Monstera borsigiana (a close relative of deliciosa) and features stunning splashes and blocks of pure white against deep green leaves. Each leaf is a unique work of art.

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Best for: Intermediate to advanced plant parents who are ready for a bit more of a challenge and have a bright spot to offer.

Pro-Tip: The white parts of the leaves cannot photosynthesize, so an Albo needs more bright, indirect light than its all-green relatives to stay healthy. Keep it out of direct sun, which can easily scorch the delicate white sections.

Rhaphidophora tetrasperma: The ‘Mini Monstera’

Okay, a little secret from one gardener to another: this one isn’t technically a Monstera! But it’s so commonly grouped with them due to its similar look and care that it’s an essential inclusion. It offers the iconic split-leaf look in a much more compact and manageable package.

Best for: Apartment dwellers or anyone who loves the Monstera vibe but lacks the space for a giant deliciosa.

Pro-Tip: This plant is a famously fast grower in the right conditions. Don’t be afraid to prune it back to encourage a fuller, bushier shape. Plus, the cuttings are super easy to propagate!

Monstera dubia: The Shingle Plant

Here’s a truly unique one! In its juvenile form, the M. dubia has small, heart-shaped leaves with silver variegation that grow completely flat against a surface, like shingles on a roof. It’s a fascinating climber that looks completely different from its mature form.

Best for: Plant enthusiasts looking for something unusual. It thrives when given a wooden plank or moss pole to climb from day one.

Pro-Tip: To encourage it to mature and eventually develop fenestrated leaves (which hang off the climbing surface), you must give it something to press against and climb. Without support, it will likely remain in its juvenile form.

A Universal Monstera Care Guide: Best Practices for Thriving Plants

While each variety has its quirks, most Monsteras share similar needs. Mastering these fundamentals is the key. Consider this your go-to different types of monstera plants care guide for happy, healthy growth.

Light: Bright but Not Scorching

Monsteras thrive in bright, indirect light. Think of the dappled sunlight on a jungle floor. An east-facing window is perfect, or a spot a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. Too little light leads to leggy growth and fewer leaf splits.

Water: The ‘Drench and Dry’ Method

Overwatering is the most common mistake! The best practice is to water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then wait for the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Stick your finger in the soil to check—don’t just rely on a schedule.

Soil: A Chunky, Airy Mix

These plants are epiphytes in the wild, meaning they grow on other trees, not in dense soil. They need a well-draining, airy potting mix. A great DIY recipe is equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. This prevents root rot and gives them the aeration they crave.

Humidity & Temperature: Creating a Tropical Oasis

Monsteras love warmth and humidity, preferring temperatures between 65-85°F (18-30°C). If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider grouping plants together, using a pebble tray, or investing in a small humidifier. They will thank you for it!

Common Problems with Different Types of Monstera Plants (and How to Fix Them!)

Even the most experienced gardener runs into issues. Don’t panic! Here are some common problems with different types of monstera plants and simple solutions.

  • Problem: Yellowing Leaves.

    Cause & Solution: This is almost always a sign of overwatering. Your soil is staying too wet for too long. Scale back your watering frequency and ensure your pot has good drainage. Let that soil dry out!

  • Problem: Brown, Crispy Edges or Tips.

    Cause & Solution: This points to a lack of humidity or underwatering. The air is too dry. Try the humidity-boosting tips mentioned above or check if you’re waiting too long between waterings.

  • Problem: No Fenestrations (Splits or Holes).

    Cause & Solution: This is usually due to one of two things: age or light. Very young plants won’t have splits yet. If your plant is mature but not splitting, it almost certainly needs more light. Move it to a brighter location.

  • Problem: Pests.

    Cause & Solution: Monsteras can attract pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Inspect your plant regularly, especially the undersides of leaves. If you see any, isolate the plant and treat it with a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.

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Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Monstera Care Tips

Being a Greeny Gardener means caring for our plants and our planet. Adopting a few sustainable different types of monstera plants practices is easy and impactful.

One of the best eco-friendly different types of monstera plants tips is to make your own potting mix using peat-free coco coir as a base. Peat bogs are vital ecosystems, and using alternatives helps protect them.

Instead of always buying new, learn to propagate! Monsteras are incredibly easy to propagate from stem cuttings in water or soil. It’s a wonderful way to create new plants for free and share them with friends.

Finally, collect rainwater to water your plants. It’s free of the chemicals found in tap water and is the perfect pH for most houseplants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Monstera Plants

Why are my Monstera’s leaves not splitting?

The most common reason is a lack of light. Move your plant to a spot where it gets several hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. It can also be a sign of immaturity; young plants need time to develop their characteristic fenestrations. Be patient and give it light!

How often should I repot my Monstera?

Typically, every 1-2 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes. It’s best to repot in the spring or summer during the active growing season. Only go up one pot size (about 2 inches in diameter) at a time to avoid overwhelming the root system.

Are Monstera plants toxic to pets?

Yes, they are. Monstera plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and digestive tract if ingested by cats or dogs. It’s best to keep them out of reach of curious pets.

Your Monstera Adventure Awaits

Whew! We’ve covered a lot, from the classic M. deliciosa to the rare M. dubia. You now have a complete toolkit on how to different types of monstera plants can be identified, cared for, and enjoyed to their fullest.

Remember that the journey of a plant parent is one of learning and observation. Each plant is an individual, and the greatest joy comes from getting to know its unique needs.

Whether you choose a towering giant or a delicate vine, you’re not just bringing home a plant—you’re bringing home a piece of the jungle. Go forth and grow, Greeny Gardener!

Rimon Chowdhury
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