Types of Monstera | Different Varieties to Grow

Monstera plants are popular indoor plants with unique and bold foliage. Different types of Monstera, each with distinct characteristics, make them perfect for a variety of indoor spaces. This guide explores some of the top Monstera varieties, from the classic Monstera Deliciosa to rare types like Monstera Siltepecana, helping you choose the best one for your home.

Introduction to Monstera Varieties

Thanks to their stunning appearance and adaptability, Monsteras are among the most cherished houseplants today. Each variety has special characteristics like leaf shapes, patterns, or climbing styles, creating a lush and exotic touch in indoor spaces. Here’s a look at some of the top Monstera types and their unique features, plus basic care advice for each.

If you’re just starting with Monstera plants, you might find our beginner’s guide to Monstera care helpful.

Modern minimalist setup with a green indoor plant in a sleek white ceramic pot, placed on a wooden stool against a light background

Common Monstera Varieties to Grow

Deliciosa

Monstera Deliciosa, often called the “Swiss cheese plant,” is the most recognized Monstera type and a staple in many homes.

Leaf Characteristics: Known for its large, glossy green leaves that develop distinctive splits and holes as they mature.
Popularity: This variety is loved for its dramatic look and easy adaptability, making it a top pick for beginners.
Growing Tips: Bright, indirect light and moderate humidity work well for this plant. Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, and ensure the pot has good drainage.

Adansonii

Monstera Adansonii, also known as the “Swiss cheese vine,” is popular for its smaller, heart-shaped leaves with delicate holes.

Notable Features: The smaller leaves with holes give it a lacy appearance that distinguishes it from Deliciosa.
Growth Habit: Unlike Deliciosa, Adansonii has a vining growth style and enjoys climbing on a moss pole or trellis.
Care Needs: Bright, indirect light and high humidity suit Adansonii well. Water when the top inch of soil dries out.

Unique and Rare Monstera Varieties

Thai Constellation

Monstera Thai Constellation is a stunning variegated variety known for its marbled white and green leaves, highly prized by collectors.

Leaf Pattern: Its marbling, which resembles a constellation, makes it truly unique.
Care Tips: Place it in bright, indirect light to keep its variegation vibrant. In lower light, the variegation may fade.
Humidity and Watering Needs: This plant benefits from high humidity and requires watering when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root issues.

Albo Borsigiana

Monstera Albo Borsigiana is another popular variegated Monstera with a striking white and green leaf pattern.

Appearance: Large green leaves with bold white patches make this plant a standout.
Lighting Needs: Bright, indirect light helps maintain the white variegation, while direct sun should be avoided to protect the leaves.
Special Care: Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot, as the white parts of the leaves are more sensitive.

Pinnatipartita

Monstera Pinnatipartita stands out for its deeply split leaves, giving it a unique look among Monstera varieties.

Leaf Shape: As the plant matures, its leaves develop deep splits that differ from the standard holes of other Monsteras.
Best Growing Conditions: It thrives in well-draining soil and indirect light and benefits from a moss pole for vertical growth.
Propagation: Stem cuttings with nodes work well for propagating this Monstera. This method is similar to other Monstera varieties.

Lesser-Known Monstera Varieties

Dubia

Monstera Dubia is recognized for its unique, silvery-green leaves and unusual growth habit. Unlike other Monsteras, its leaves stay close to surfaces as it climbs.

Close-up of a Scindapsus plant with heart-shaped leaves climbing up a moss pole, displaying its unique silver-green patterns

Distinct Look: Heart-shaped leaves with silvery patterns make it a standout plant.
Growth Style: Dubia grows flat against a moss pole or other support, unlike other Monsteras with spread-out leaves.
Care Requirements: Bright, indirect light and high humidity help Dubia thrive. It requires more care than common Monstera types.

Siltepecana

Monstera Siltepecana has striking silvery-blue leaves with dark green veins, adding a touch of color contrast to any plant collection.

Unique Color: Siltepecana’s silvery-blue leaves bring a beautiful, unique look to indoor gardens.
Growth Change with Age: As the plant matures, its leaves often become elongated and may develop splits.
Preferred Environment: High humidity and bright, indirect light support this plant’s healthy growth.

Scindapsus plant with striking variegated leaves in shades of dark green, cream, and yellow, potted in fresh soil

Tips for Choosing the Right Monstera Variety

Selecting the best Monstera for your space depends on factors like size, light, and personal preference.

Space Requirements: Monstera Deliciosa and Thai Constellation grow large, so they need ample room. Adansonii and Dubia are more compact, making them good choices for smaller areas.
Light Needs: Variegated types like Albo Borsigiana and Thai Constellation need bright, indirect light to maintain their color. If you have lower light, Adansonii may be a better fit.
Care Level: Beginners will find Monstera Deliciosa and Adansonii easier to care for. Advanced varieties, such as Thai Constellation and Albo Borsigiana, require a bit more attention to light and humidity.

To learn more about caring for your Monstera, explore our detailed Monstera care guide for beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the easiest Monstera to grow?

Monstera Deliciosa and Monstera Adansonii are both beginner-friendly. They adapt well to indoor environments and are more forgiving of small care mistakes.

2. Are rare Monsteras harder to care for?

Rare Monsteras like Thai Constellation and Albo Borsigiana can be more challenging. Variegated types need stable light and humidity levels to keep their unique colors.

3. Do all Monsteras develop fenestrations?

Not every Monstera develops leaf holes or splits. Deliciosa and Adansonii do, but some types, such as Monstera Dubia, don’t develop fenestrations in the same way.

Conclusion

Each Monstera variety brings its own beauty and character to an indoor garden. Whether you’re just starting with Monstera or expanding your collection, there’s a perfect type for every plant lover. With options ranging from the classic Deliciosa to the rare Thai Constellation, Monsteras are versatile plants that can add a tropical touch to any space. Enjoy exploring this stunning genus and finding the right Monstera for your home!