Types Of Monstera Deliciosa – A Visual Guide To Rare & Common

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Ever walked into a plant shop or scrolled through your social feed and been stopped in your tracks by a magnificent Swiss Cheese Plant? You know the one—with its huge, glossy green leaves full of dramatic splits and holes. It’s a showstopper, for sure. But what if I told you that iconic plant is just the beginning?

I know it can feel like you’re seeing the same plant everywhere, but the world of Monstera is vast and exciting. I promise this guide will not only introduce you to the stunning family of these plants but also empower you to choose and care for the right one for your home. We’ll explore the classic varieties, dive into the jaw-dropping variegated forms, and I’ll share some essential tips to help your new plant thrive.

This is your complete types of monstera deliciosa guide, written by one plant lover to another. Let’s find your perfect Monstera!

What Exactly Makes a Monstera a Monstera deliciosa?

Before we dive into the different varieties, let’s get on the same page. The term “Monstera” gets used for a lot of different plants, but we’re focusing on the king of the jungle: Monstera deliciosa.

The hallmark of this species is its stunning leaves, which develop splits from the edge and holes in the middle as they mature. This process is called fenestration, and it’s what gives the plant its famous “Swiss Cheese” look. In the wild, these holes help the large leaves withstand strong winds and allow light to filter down to the lower leaves.

These plants are natural climbers, sending out long, rope-like aerial roots to latch onto trees. Bringing one into your home means you’re inviting in a piece of the tropical rainforest. The benefits of types of monstera deliciosa go beyond aesthetics; they are also fantastic air purifiers, helping to create a healthier indoor environment.

The Classics: Common and Beloved Types of Monstera Deliciosa

Don’t let the word “common” fool you—these foundational varieties are popular for a reason. They are robust, beautiful, and the perfect starting point for any Monstera enthusiast. Don’t worry—these plants are perfect for beginners!

The Standard Monstera deliciosa (Large Form)

This is the icon, the one you probably picture in your head. The standard Monstera deliciosa is known for its massive, sprawling leaves that can easily reach two feet wide or more in the right conditions. Its fenestrations are deep and dramatic.

This is a true statement plant. It grows with a relatively short distance between its nodes (the points on the stem where leaves grow), giving it a full, bushy appearance before it starts to vine aggressively. If you have the space and want that classic jungle vibe, this is your plant.

Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’ (Small Form)

Here’s where many plant parents get confused. The ‘Borsigiana’ is a smaller, faster-growing variety of Monstera deliciosa. It’s often sold simply as the standard form, but there’s a key difference savvy gardeners look for.

Check the spot where the leaf meets the stem (the petiole). On a ‘Borsigiana’, this area is smooth. On a standard large form, you’ll find delicate wrinkles or “ruffles,” a feature known as the geniculum. ‘Borsigiana’ also has a more distinctly vining habit, with more space between its leaves, making it an excellent candidate for a moss pole.

The Holy Grail: Exploring Variegated Monstera Deliciosa Cultivars

Now we venture into the world of the collectors. Variegation is a genetic mutation that results in a lack of chlorophyll in some parts of the plant, creating stunning patterns of white, cream, or yellow. These varieties require a bit more attention, but their beauty is unparalleled.

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Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’

The ‘Albo’ is the queen of contrast. It features large patches and sectors of pure, snow-white variegation against a deep green backdrop. Each new leaf is a surprise—you might get a half-moon, a marbled pattern, or a mostly white leaf.

This beauty comes with a challenge. The white parts of the leaf cannot photosynthesize, making the plant a slower grower. They are also prone to browning. The key is to provide very bright, indirect light to help the green parts work overtime to support the whole plant. This is one of the most sought-after types of monstera deliciosa for a reason.

Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’

If the ‘Albo’ is a painter’s splash, the ‘Thai Constellation’ is a starry night. This variety is distinguished by its creamy-yellow speckles and splashes scattered across the leaves, resembling a galaxy. It’s absolutely breathtaking.

The big advantage of the ‘Thai Constellation’ is that its variegation is stable. It was created in a lab, so the mutation is present in the plant’s DNA, meaning you won’t lose the variegation over time. This makes it a slightly more forgiving entry point into the world of variegated Monsteras, though it still commands a high price.

The Ultra-Rare: Aurea & Mint Monstera

For the truly dedicated collector, there are even rarer forms. The ‘Aurea’ (or ‘Marmorata’) features stunning yellow variegation instead of white. The ‘Mint Monstera’ is a newer variety with a gorgeous, minty-green or light-green variegation that almost looks like a watercolor painting.

These are typically much harder to find and come with a hefty price tag. They are a testament to the incredible diversity within just one plant species!

A Comprehensive Types of Monstera Deliciosa Care Guide

No matter which variety you choose, the basic care principles are similar. Getting these right is the secret to unlocking those gorgeous, fenestrated leaves. Here are some types of monstera deliciosa best practices to follow.

Light: The Key to Fenestrations

This is the most important factor. Monsteras need plenty of bright, indirect light. An east-facing window with gentle morning sun is perfect. A spot a few feet back from a south or west-facing window also works well.

Too little light, and your plant will become “leggy” (long stems with small leaves) and will never develop splits. Too much direct sun, and you’ll scorch those beautiful leaves. Variegated types need even more light than their green counterparts to stay healthy.

Watering: Less is More

The number one mistake I see is overwatering. These plants hate “wet feet,” which leads to root rot. Before you water, stick your finger about two inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days.

When you do water, do it thoroughly. Let water run all the way through the pot and out the drainage holes. This ensures the entire root ball gets a drink.

Soil & Humidity: Recreating the Rainforest

Monsteras are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other trees in the wild. They don’t love dense, standard potting soil. Your best bet is a chunky, well-aerated aroid mix. You can buy one pre-made or mix your own using ingredients like orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and a bit of potting soil.

They also love humidity! If your home is dry, consider placing your plant near a humidifier, grouping it with other plants, or giving it a gentle misting every few days.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Monstera Ownership

Being a plant parent can also be an act of environmental stewardship. Embracing sustainable types of monstera deliciosa practices is easier than you think and incredibly rewarding.

One of the best eco-friendly approaches is propagation. Instead of buying a new plant, you can easily take a cutting from your existing Monstera to create a new one for yourself or a friend. Simply cut a piece of stem with at least one leaf and a node (a small brown bump where roots will form), and place it in water. In a few weeks, you’ll have roots!

Consider using peat-free soil mixes to protect fragile peat bog ecosystems. You can also opt for natural pest control solutions like neem oil or insecticidal soap instead of harsh chemical pesticides. Joining a local plant swap group is another fantastic way to share cuttings and expand your collection sustainably.

Common Problems with Types of Monstera Deliciosa (And How to Fix Them!)

Even the most experienced gardener runs into issues. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide for some common problems with types of monstera deliciosa.

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Yellowing Leaves

This is almost always a sign of overwatering. The lower leaves are usually the first to turn yellow. Immediately check the soil moisture and allow the plant to dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has good drainage.

Browning Edges or Crispy Spots

Crispy brown edges typically signal a lack of humidity. Try the humidity-boosting tips mentioned earlier. Sudden brown spots in the middle of a leaf, especially on variegated sections, could be a sign of sunburn from too much direct light.

Pests: Spotting the Unwanted Guests

Monsteras can occasionally attract pests like spider mites (look for fine webbing) or thrips (tiny, black insects). Inspect your leaves regularly. If you spot any, isolate the plant and treat it by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth and spraying with an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.

Why Aren’t My Leaves Splitting?

Patience, my friend! This is the most common question. Leaf splitting is a sign of maturity and happiness. If your leaves aren’t splitting, it’s almost always due to two things: age and light. A young plant won’t have splits. If your plant is mature but still producing solid leaves, it needs more light.

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Monstera Deliciosa

How can I tell if I have a regular deliciosa or a ‘Borsigiana’?

The easiest way is to look at the geniculum—the small joint where the leaf connects to the stem. A standard large-form deliciosa will have cute little ruffles or wrinkles there on its mature leaves. A ‘Borsigiana’ will be smooth.

Are variegated Monsteras harder to care for?

Yes, slightly. Because the white or yellow parts of the leaves can’t photosynthesize, the plant has less energy. They need more light than their all-green cousins and are more sensitive to overwatering and pests. They are less forgiving of mistakes but incredibly rewarding.

Why are some types of Monstera deliciosa so expensive?

It comes down to supply and demand, plus the difficulty of propagation. Variegated varieties like the ‘Albo’ and ‘Thai Constellation’ grow much slower, and propagating them successfully is a more delicate process. Their rarity and extreme popularity drive up the price.

Is Monstera deliciosa toxic to pets?

Yes, it is. The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, drooling, and vomiting if ingested by cats or dogs. It’s best to keep them in a location where your furry friends can’t take a curious bite.

Ready to Grow Your Monstera Collection?

From the robust and reliable standard Monstera deliciosa to the ethereal beauty of a variegated ‘Albo’, there truly is a Monstera for every plant lover. We’ve covered the main types of monstera deliciosa, explored a detailed types of monstera deliciosa care guide, and tackled some common problems.

The most important thing to remember is that growing these plants should be a joy. Pay attention to what your plant is telling you, provide it with the light it craves, and don’t be afraid to make a mistake or two along the way. That’s how we all learn!

So, which Monstera has captured your heart? No matter which you choose, you’re welcoming a living piece of art into your home. Go forth and grow!

Rimon Chowdhury
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