Plants Like Monstera: Discover 7 Easy-Care Tropical Alternatives

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the iconic, split-leaf look of a Monstera deliciosa? It’s the superstar of the houseplant world for a reason. But what if your space is too small, your light is a little different, or you simply want to expand your collection with something that has that same lush, jungle-like vibe?

You’ve come to the right place. I’m here to promise you that the world of tropical foliage is vast and exciting, filled with stunning alternatives that can give you that bold, beautiful look you crave. Think of me as your friendly gardening guide, ready to walk you through it all.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore a curated list of incredible plants like monstera. We’ll dive into how to care for them, solve common problems, and even share some eco-friendly tips to help your indoor jungle thrive. Get ready to find your next favorite plant!

Why Look for Plants Like Monstera? The Allure of the Indoor Jungle

The appeal of the Monstera is undeniable. Those dramatic splits and holes, known as fenestrations, feel wild and architectural all at once. They instantly transform a room, making it feel more alive and connected to nature. This is one of the key benefits of plants like monstera—they are living sculptures.

But there are plenty of reasons to seek out an alternative:

  • Space Constraints: A mature Monstera deliciosa can become, well, a monster! Many alternatives offer a similar look in a much more compact or manageable size.
  • Aesthetic Variety: You might love the general vibe but want a different leaf shape, color, or growth habit (like a vining plant instead of an upright one).
  • Unique Finds: Let’s face it, it’s fun to have a plant that makes people ask, “What is that?!” Exploring alternatives allows you to curate a truly unique collection.
  • Different Care Needs: Perhaps your home doesn’t have the perfect conditions for a Monstera. Another plant with a similar look might be a better fit for your environment.

No matter your reason, the goal is the same: to bring that vibrant, tropical energy indoors. And don’t worry—these options are just as rewarding to grow!

Our Top 7 Stunning Plants Like Monstera (The Ultimate Guide)

Ready to meet your new leafy friends? I’ve gathered my top seven favorite plants that capture the spirit of the Monstera. This isn’t just a list; it’s a starting point for your next plant adventure. Here are some essential plants like monstera tips for each one.

1. Rhaphidophora tetrasperma (‘Mini Monstera’)

This is probably the most famous Monstera lookalike, and for good reason! Despite its nickname, it’s not a Monstera or a Philodendron at all—it’s in its own genus. Its leaves have similar splits, but the plant itself is a much smaller, more delicate vining species.

Why it’s a great alternative: It gives you the iconic split-leaf look in a fraction of the space. It’s a fast grower and loves to climb, making it perfect for a moss pole or trellis.

Care Tips:

  • Light: Bright, indirect light is its best friend. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch its leaves.
  • Water: Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. It doesn’t like to stay soggy.
  • Pro Tip: Give it something to climb! A moss pole will encourage it to produce larger, more fenestrated leaves.

2. Split-Leaf Philodendron (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum)

Often mistaken for a Monstera deliciosa, this plant (formerly Philodendron selloum) is a showstopper in its own right. Its leaves are deeply lobed rather than fenestrated, creating a frilly, ruffled appearance. It grows into a massive, tree-like shrub.

Why it’s a great alternative: It delivers the same scale and dramatic impact as a large Monstera but with a unique, frillier texture. It truly creates a “jungle” feel.

Care Tips:

  • Light: It can handle a bit more light than a Monstera. Bright, indirect to a few hours of gentle direct morning sun is ideal.
  • Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season.
  • Pro Tip: As it matures, it will form a woody “trunk.” Don’t be afraid to prune off lower leaves that yellow and die back to keep it looking tidy.

3. Swiss Cheese Vine (Monstera adansonii)

Okay, this one is technically a Monstera, but its look and growth habit are completely different from its famous cousin. This vining plant has heart-shaped leaves that are full of holes, earning it the “Swiss Cheese” name. It’s a fantastic choice for hanging baskets or shelves.

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Why it’s a great alternative: It provides those coveted fenestrations in a trailing form. It’s perfect for adding a touch of the jungle to vertical spaces.

Care Tips:

  • Light: Bright, indirect light is perfect. It can get leggy in lower light conditions.
  • Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. It’s prone to root rot if overwatered.
  • Pro Tip: If your vine gets too long and sparse, don’t hesitate to trim it back! This encourages fuller growth and you can easily propagate the cuttings.

4. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai)

While it doesn’t have fenestrations, the White Bird of Paradise delivers drama and tropical flair in spades. Its enormous, paddle-shaped leaves grow upright, creating a stunning vertical accent. The leaves will naturally split along the edges as they age, giving them a rugged, jungle-like appearance.

Why it’s a great alternative: It offers the same large-scale impact and tropical vibe as a Monstera but with a more upright, elegant form.

Care Tips:

  • Light: These plants are sun-lovers! Give them as much bright, indirect light as you can, and even some direct sun.
  • Water: Water generously during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • Pro Tip: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth every few weeks to keep them clean, glossy, and free of pests.

5. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

Another plant famous in its own right, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is the go-to for a bold, architectural statement. Its huge, violin-shaped leaves are leathery and glossy, commanding attention in any room. It’s a tree, so it provides height and structure.

Why it’s a great alternative: If you want a plant that defines a space with large, impressive foliage, the Fiddle Leaf Fig does the job just as well as a Monstera.

Care Tips:

  • Light: Needs lots of bright, indirect light. A spot near an east-facing window is often perfect.
  • Water: They are sensitive to overwatering. Water only when the top few inches of soil are completely dry.
  • Pro Tip: Fiddle Leaf Figs hate being moved. Find a good spot for it and let it settle in. Avoid drafts from vents or doors.

6. Elephant Ear (Alocasia or Colocasia)

For sheer leaf size, nothing beats an Elephant Ear. These plants produce massive, heart- or arrow-shaped leaves that create an incredibly lush, tropical canopy. There are countless varieties, from the dark and moody Alocasia ‘Black Velvet’ to the giant Colocasia esculenta.

Why it’s a great alternative: It provides an unparalleled sense of the exotic and can grow to an impressive size, truly making you feel like you’re in a rainforest.

Care Tips:

  • Light: Most prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch their tender leaves.
  • Water: They love to be kept consistently moist. This is not a plant you can forget to water!
  • Pro Tip: Alocasias are prone to spider mites. Wiping the leaves regularly and maintaining good humidity can help keep them at bay.

7. Polka Dot Begonia (Begonia maculata)

Looking for something a little more whimsical? The Polka Dot Begonia is a fantastic choice. It features long, angel-wing-shaped leaves dotted with silvery-white spots and a stunning deep red underside. It grows upright on bamboo-like stems.

Why it’s a great alternative: It offers a unique and playful take on the large-leaf trend, bringing color and pattern into the mix while still having a strong vertical presence.

Care Tips:

  • Light: Bright, indirect light will keep its colors vibrant. Avoid direct sun.
  • Water: Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering. They are susceptible to root rot.
  • Pro Tip: These begonias love humidity but hate having wet leaves, which can cause mildew. A humidifier is a much better choice than misting.

The Ultimate Plants Like Monstera Care Guide

While each plant has its quirks, following a few plants like monstera best practices will set you up for success with most tropical foliage plants. This is your go-to reference for general care.

Getting the Light Just Right

Most of these plants originate from forest floors, where they receive dappled sunlight through the canopy. The key is to replicate this at home. Bright, indirect light is the gold standard. An east-facing window is often ideal, or a spot a few feet back from a south- or west-facing window.

The Secret to Perfect Watering

Overwatering is the number one killer of houseplants! A good rule of thumb is the “drench and dry” method. Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage hole, then allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Always use pots with good drainage.

Humidity: Creating a Tropical Paradise

Tropical plants thrive in humidity. If your home is dry (especially in winter), you can boost humidity by:

  • Grouping your plants together.
  • Placing them on a pebble tray filled with water.
  • Using a small humidifier nearby. This is the most effective method!

Soil and Feeding for Lush Growth

A chunky, well-draining soil mix is crucial. A good starter recipe is equal parts potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark. During the spring and summer growing season, feed your plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter.

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Solving Common Problems with Plants Like Monstera

Even with the best care, you might run into an issue or two. Don’t panic! Here’s a quick look at some common problems with plants like monstera and how to fix them.

Yellowing Leaves? Here’s What It Means.

The most common cause of yellowing leaves is overwatering. The soil is staying too wet for too long, suffocating the roots. Check the soil moisture before you water again. It can also be a sign of underwatering or a nutrient deficiency, but always check your watering habits first.

Pesky Pests: Spider Mites and Mealybugs

Inspect your plants regularly for pests, especially on the undersides of leaves. If you spot fine webbing (spider mites) or small, white, cottony masses (mealybugs), act quickly. Isolate the plant and treat it by wiping the leaves with a cloth dipped in a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap, or by using an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Leggy Growth and How to Fix It

If your plant is stretching out with lots of space between the leaves, it’s likely not getting enough light. It’s reaching for the sun! Try moving it to a brighter location. You can also prune it back to encourage bushier, more compact growth.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Practices for Your Tropical Beauties

Being a plant parent is a wonderful way to connect with nature, and we can make it even better by adopting some sustainable practices. This is how you can practice growing eco-friendly plants like monstera.

Consider using a peat-free potting mix to protect vital peat bog ecosystems. You can also make your own compost to enrich your soil naturally. When pests appear, reach for organic solutions like neem oil before chemical pesticides.

One of the most rewarding and sustainable plants like monstera practices is propagation! Instead of buying a new plant, take a cutting from your existing one to create a new plant for free. It’s a great way to fill your home with more greenery or share your love of plants with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions About Plants Like Monstera

Which plant that looks like a Monstera is easiest for beginners?

For a true beginner, I’d highly recommend the Rhaphidophora tetrasperma (‘Mini Monstera’). It’s resilient, a fast grower (which is very rewarding!), and clearly communicates when it needs water. The Monstera adansonii is also a fantastic and forgiving choice.

Can these plants live in low light?

While many of these plants can tolerate lower light conditions, they won’t thrive. You’ll see slower, leggier growth and, in the case of fenestrated plants, fewer splits or holes in the leaves. For best results, always aim for bright, indirect light.

Are plants like Monstera toxic to pets?

This is a very important question! Yes, many of the plants on this list (including all Monsteras, Philodendrons, and Alocasias) contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. They can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Always check the toxicity of a plant before bringing it into a home with curious pets or children.

How do I encourage more splits or fenestrations in my leaves?

The two keys to getting those beautiful splits and holes are maturity and light. As the plant gets older and larger, it will naturally start to produce more fenestrated leaves. Providing it with plenty of bright, indirect light gives it the energy it needs to do so. A climbing support like a moss pole can also encourage larger, more mature leaf forms.

Ready to Grow Your Indoor Jungle?

There you have it—a whole world of stunning, dramatic, and lush plants just waiting to bring that tropical Monstera magic into your home. From the easy-going ‘Mini Monstera’ to the magnificent Bird of Paradise, there’s a perfect match for every space and every gardener.

Remember that every plant is a journey. Pay attention to its needs, don’t be afraid to make adjustments, and most importantly, have fun watching it grow. Now you have the complete plants like monstera guide to get started.

Go find your perfect leafy companion. Happy planting!

Rimon Chowdhury
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