The Best Monstera Varieties: 16 Different Types of Monstera Plants

When you think of a Monstera, the image that usually comes to mind is of those large, attention-grabbing leaves with striking splits and holes. It's a look that earned them the fun nickname "Swiss Cheese Plant."

But, the Monstera family is more diverse than you might imagine! For all the enthusiastic houseplant collectors out there, this is great news. Besides the beloved Monstera deliciosa, there's an array of Monsteras to add to your houseplant collection.

While Monstera plants all share those iconic split leaves, they each have unique characteristics. Here are 16 different types of Monstera worthy of a spot on your plant wishlist.

1. Thai Constellation

Scientific Name: Monstera deliciosa 'Thai Constellation'

• Plant Type: Exotic, perennial plant

• Geographic Origin: Thailand

• Plant Size: Around 6-8 feet tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

The Thai Constellation is a trendy and sought-after monstera variety, and it's easy to see why. The creamy-yellow variegated leaves light up any room, earning it the fitting name "Constellation."

Unlike most Monstera varieties from humid jungles, the Thai Constellation was actually lab-grown in Thailand through genetic mutation. This makes it even more fascinating!

Keeping this beauty thriving is surprisingly easy; they are less tolerant of drying out, have slower growth, and are more sensitive to light, temperature, humidity, and fertilizer. Ensure it's planted in well-drained soil that can slightly dry out between waterings and place it in bright, indirect light from a north or east-facing window.

Shop: Buy a Thai Constellation here at The Sill

2. Borsigiana

Scientific Name: Monstera borsigiana

• Plant Type: Evergreen vine

• Geographic Origin: The tropical parts of southern Mexico and Panama

• Plant Size: Up to 10 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

The Monstera borsigiana is undeniably an awesome addition to any plant lover's collection. Its large, glossy leaves with deep veins make it stand out among other Monstera species.

Interestingly, this variation is often mistaken for the classic Monstera deliciosa when it's young. But, there are some telltale signs, such as the difference in the row of holes and the cute little bumps near the leaf attachments.

This plant's easy-to-care nature shines as it thrives in indirect light and moist soil. And don't be fooled by its smaller leaves; the fast growth of the Monstera borsigiana quickly fills up any room. Plus, its adorable heart-shaped leaves add a stylish touch to your green sanctuary.

3. Swiss Cheese Plant

Scientific Name: Monstera deliciosa

• Plant Type: Evergreen vine, flowering plant

• Geographic Origin: Mexico and Central America (i.e. Costa Rica, Guatemala and Panama)

• Plant Size: 3-5 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight and partial sun

Introducing the superstar of the Monstera family - the Monstera deliciosa, an iconic and striking houseplant we all know and love.

The Swiss Cheese Plant is a popular choice for plant enthusiasts thanks to its big, glossy leaves with characteristic splits and ease of care. Bright, indirect light and regular watering with well-draining soil are all it needs to thrive.

Interestingly, this plant has another foody name - the 'Mexican Breadfruit Plant', referring to the fruit it produces which is absolutely deliciosa when ripe!

4. Variegated Monstera

Scientific Name: Monstera albo variegata

• Plant Type: Climbing plant

• Geographic Origin: Central and South America

• Plant Size: 6-10 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Partial or indirect light

The Monstera albo variegata is a rare and stunning climbing plant that showcases beautiful marbling of white on its glossy leaves.

Hailing from the tropical forests of Central and South America, it demands little from its owners. It thrives happily in both partial or indirect light with consistently moist, well-draining soil.

Unlike other Monstera varieties, the albo variegata prefers to grow low, adding tropical beauty without taking over. But when properly cared for with ample space, this plant has the potential to grow to an impressive height of 6-10 feet tall.

5. Adansonii

Scientific Name: Monstera adansonii

• Plant Type: Evergreen vine, flowering plant

• Geographic Origin: West Indies and Amazonian region of Peru, Ecuador and Brazil

• Plant Size: 3-8 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

You've probably seen the Monstera adansonii, also known as the Swiss Cheese Vine or Adanson's Monstera. A charming climber with a unique look; the leaves of the Monstera adansonii have fascinating holes without splitting the leaf entirely.

What's great about the Monstera adansonii is its versatility; this fast-growing Monstera loves to climb (up to 8 feet tall), but can also let its trail down, making it a fantastic hanging plant!

But its beautiful looks are not the only reason Monstera adansonii is such a popular plant to homeowners - it's also incredibly easy to care for. All it needs is bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil to thrive.

Shop: Buy an Adansonii plant here at PlantVine

6. Shingle Plant

Scientific Name: Monstera dubia

• Plant Type: Creeping vine

• Geographic Origin: Central and South America

• Plant Size: 3-6 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Partial sun

Meet Monstera dubia - a smaller, lesser-known gem among Monstera varieties that deserves a spot in every Monstera lover's collection. You'll recognize it by its small, heart-shaped leaves that lie flat against the tree or trellis it climbs, creating a shingle-like appearance that earned it the nickname "shingle plant."

As juveniles, these plants don't have the iconic Monstera slits and holes. But that's not to say their cute dark green leaves aren't beautiful in their own right, even without the fenestration.

The Monstera dubia needs well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter, a good dose of bright indirect light, and high humidity. Supporting its climbing habit with a moss pole or wooden stake will make it feel right at home.

7. Pinnatipartita

Scientific Name: Monstera pinnatipartita

• Plant Type: Rare evergreen climbing plant

• Geographic Origin: Rainforest regions of Ecuador, Columbia, and Peru

• Plant Size: 4-6 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Partial or indirect sunlight

Among the attractive array of Monstera varieties, the Monstera pinnatipartita shines as one of the most beautiful. This rare evergreen climber is beautiful with its large, deeply lobed leaves, but it has a unique feature: the fenestration extends further up compared to other Monsteras.

The Monstera pinnatipartita needs support to stay healthy - a moss pole will make it feel just at home. It's also a piece of cake to care for, handling lower light levels better than other varieties, and it's less prone to pests and diseases.

With the right care, this Monstera can proudly reach up to 6 feet tall, making a lush and captivating addition to your space.

8. Silver Monstera

Scientific Name: Monstera siltepecana

• Plant Type: Perennial vine

• Geographic Origin: Southern Mexico and Central American countries (i.e. El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize)

• Plant Size: Up to 8 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Filtered, medium sunlight

The Silver Monstera, or Monstera siltepecana, is a peculiar Monstera variety. When young, the Monstera siltepecana looks nothing like its mature form. In juvenile form, this plant flaunts lance-shaped leaves in a stunning silvery hue with dark green veins. Once the plant matures, the leaves become slightly glossy and develop fenestrations.

This versatility makes the Silver Monstera perfect for homes and terrariums. To truly nurture this plant, give it something to climb - a large branch or moss pole will do.

As it grows, the Monstera siltepecana becomes more of an epiphyte - a plant that grows on the surface of another plant. So, support it well, and watch the Silver Monstera flourish into its full expression in your home.

9. Obliqua

Scientific Name: Monstera obliqua

• Plant Type: Perennial climbing plant

• Geographic Origin: Central and Tropical America and Trinidad

• Plant Size: 4-5 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

The Monstera obliqua is one of the rarest and most intriguing varieties of Monstera. Known for its slow growth and distinctive large holes in the leaves, this plant's rarity is partly due to its tricky care and propagation. Unlike the usually easygoing nature of Monsteras, the Monstera obliqua requires special attention.

Native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, this beauty needs high humidity (around 85%) to thrive. When grown indoors, it usually stays compact, reaching about 4-5 feet on a trellis (another climber!).

If your green thumbs are up for the challenge, the Monstera obliqua will flourish and become a striking addition to your plant family.

10. Monstera Peru

Scientific Name: Monstera karstenianum

• Plant Type: Perennial vine

• Geographic Origin: Amazon basin in Brazil and Peru

• Plant Size: 6-8 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Indirect sunlight

The Monstera Peru (Monstera karstenianum) is an unusual plant that sets itself apart from the typical Monstera leaves. Unlike its fenestrated cousins, this plant features small, rounded, and puckered leaves with a leathery texture.

Originating in Peru, it also has a pretty aggressive climbing habit, reaching up to 8 feet tall indoors. Plus, it looks unique and attractive in your space, boasting large leaves with those Swiss-cheese-like lobes.

The Monstera Peru is a lazy gardener's dream, thriving with minimal attention. It only needs indirect light, normal watering, and organic well-draining soil to feel loved.

11. Acuminata

Scientific Name: Monstera acuminata

• Plant Type: Flowering plant

• Geographic Origin: Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua

• Plant Size: Up to 8 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Medium to indirect sunlight

Monstera acuminata, a stunner from Central America, showcases large, glossy leaves and a knack for tree-climbing. As indoor plants, they can shoot up to 8 feet in no time, making them a fast-growing favorite.

This tropical beauty fits right into any home, as it thrives in containers, showcasing its versatility. Fascinatingly, the Monstera acuminata starts as a horizontal ground-dweller. But, once it finds a vertical playground, shingling leaves appear.

As this Monstera climbs higher, it graces you with those mesmerizing, large perforated leaves. Plus, the runners also create new Monstera wonders along the way!

12. Esqueleto

Scientific Name: Monstera esqueleto

• Plant Type: Epiphytic climber

• Geographic Origin: Costa Rica

• Plant Size: Up to 6 ft tall or more indoors

• Sun Exposure: Moderate to bright, indirect sunlight

A treasure from the misty rainforests of Costa Rica comes in the form of the enchanting Monstera esqueleto. The name 'Esqueleto' means 'skeleton' in Spanish - and it's no wonder why. Its large leaves are double-fenestrated, featuring a unique pattern of small and large holes along the midribs and edges.

Caring for the Monstera esqueleto may require a bit more effort compared to other Monstera varieties, but the payoff is worth it. With moderate light, well-draining soil, and high humidity, it will generously grace your space with exquisite, finely fenestrated leaves.

13. Five Holes Plant

Scientific Name: Monstera standleyana

• Plant Type: Flowering plant

• Geographic Origin: Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama

• Plant Size: 2-5 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Indirect sunlight, partial shade

The Monstera standleyana sets itself apart from its famous cousin the Monstera deliciosa. It sports pointier and thinner leaves, and the "holes" may not always be present, appearing as specks of lighter green or white instead.

This tropical beauty is considered one of the best Monstera varieties thanks to its fast-growing and beginner-friendly nature. It thrives in low and bright light conditions while staying resilient against pests and diseases.

The real showstopper, though, is its lush foliage, with leaves reaching up to nine inches long and four inches wide.

14. Lechleriana

Scientific Name: Monstera lechleriana

• Plant Type: Flowering plant

• Geographic Origin: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Panamá, Peru, and Venezuela

• Plant Size: Up to 8 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

Say hello to Monstera lechleriana, a lesser-known gem worthy of a spot on your plant wishlist. With leaves reaching 10 inches in size, the dark green foliage fans out as the plant matures, displaying an enchanting beauty.

A speedy grower, the Monstera lechleriana can reach heights up to 8 feet tall indoors if you give it something to climb, well-draining potting mix, and bright, indirect light.

With a little love and the right conditions, the Monstera lechleriana will bring a lush green charm to your space.

15. Spruceana

Scientific Name: Monstera spruceana

• Plant Type: Epiphytic aroid

• Geographic Origin: Central America and tropical South America

• Plant Size: 4-5 ft indoors

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

The Monstera spruceana takes fenestrations to a whole new level with huge holes in its leaves that resemble cuts spread from each inner leaf's stem. The unique structure of the leaves gives the impression that each leaflet is a leaf in itself.

Bright, indirect light is its happy place, and it likes a drink when the top inch of soil goes dry. Plus a well-balanced fertilizer is a great monthly treat during its growth spurt in spring and summer.

With its tropical origins in South America, the Monstera spruceana is a perfect addition for those looking for a statement plant.

Shop: Buy a Monstera spruceana here on Etsy

16. Subpinnata

Scientific Name: Monstera subpinnata

• Plant Type: Flowering plant

• Geographic Origin: Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia

• Plant Size: Up to 6 ft tall indoors

• Sun Exposure: Indirect sunlight

Last (but certainly not least) on our list is the Monstera subpinnata - a head-turner that demands attention with its stunning looks. It's most well known for its distinct palm-like foliage, showcasing a pinnate growth pattern with leaflets growing from several places along the stalk.

As a fast-growing vine, keeping it in a container might be a wise choice. Without proper support or structure to climb, it can sprawl horizontally. But it will still look stunning either way!

Luckily for new indoor and outdoor gardeners, it's a relatively easy plant to grow. It's not fussy about sunlight or water, and pest management is a breeze.

Shop: Buy a Monstera subpinnata on Esty

FAQs

What are the best types of Monstera for indoors?

There are many Monstera varieties that you can grace your indoor spaces with! Some of the most popular are the Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansonii, Monstera standleyana, and variegated Monsteras.

Is there a mini Monstera?

There is a plant that goes by the name "mini monster," but it's not a genuine Monstera species; rather, it's a close relative. Its scientific name is Rhaphidophora tetrasperma and is part of the genus Rhaphidophora.

Is the Monstera delicosa and Split-Leaf Philodendron the same?

Many people confuse the two, but no, a Monstera deliciosa is not the same as a Split-Leaf Philodendron. Although they appear similar, especially when young, they belong to different genera and species.