Types of Monstera Plants: 9 Popular Varieties to Grow Now

If you are looking for a beautiful and reliable houseplant, you can’t go wrong with a monstera variety. These plants are also known as Swiss cheese plants or split-leaf philodendrons given their distinctive leaves full of holes and intricate cutouts. But how many different varieties of monstera plants are there, and which one is right for you? 

In this article, we will address the most popular varieties of monstera plants, from the miniature to the large. We will tell you how to best take care of these specific varieties, how easy they are to get a hold of, and how much they might cost. Let’s get started and talk all about the infamous monstera now! 

Monstera deliciosa

The most iconic and popular monstera variety has to be the monstera deliciosa. It reaches an average of 10 feet when grown outdoors, capable of reaching up to 20 feet, but you can also reach semi-large sizes indoors as well with proper care. Depending on the size of the plant in question, most monstera deliciosa plants cost anywhere from $5 to $60, with $30 being a fair price for a well-established plant. 

When it comes to caring for your monstera deliciosa, it needs full, indirect sunlight and an average temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also water your monstera frequently, as it enjoys having well-drained soil that remains damp. Additionally, you can mist your monstera daily, given its tropical and humid origins. 

Monstera adansonii

When it comes to calling a monstera the Swiss cheese plant, most people are likely referring to the monstera adansonii. This particular monstera variety is much smaller than the monstera deliciosa, but it still has beautiful foliage with trademark holes in its leaves. Reaching an average size of 2 to 3 feet indoors, monstera adansonii plants enjoy climbing and humidity. 

On average, this particular monstera variety needs a bit more humidity and warps compared to the monstera deliciosa. Its leaves are also more delicate when it comes to direct sunlight, so make sure that its leaves do not burn and that you place it somewhere where it can thrive. Many people recommend keeping this monstera in a humid bathroom or warm location in your home. 

Monstera Variegata

If you are seeking a monstera that makes a statement, you may have a fun time hunting for a monstera variegata. Because it will be a bit of a hunt; this particular houseplant is insanely popular as well as expensive. Also known as a variegated monstera, these beautiful swiss cheese plants come in striking patterns of green and white, with some lucky plant owners getting completely white leaves. 

The care for this particular monstera is the same as the monstera deliciosa, though many people who own variegated monsteras take extra care of their leaves. This is where their beauty is and where their value is. Keep in mind that most variegated monsteras cost anywhere from $100 to well over $1,000, depending on how well-established the plant is! 

Monstera Obliqua

If a monstera variegata isn’t quite rare enough for you, then you should definitely try to find the monstera obliqua somewhere in the world. Considered one of the rarest monstera varieties out there, the monstera obliqua looks strikingly similar to the monstera adansonii, except with thinner and more ruffled leaves. 

The average cost for a 4-inch tall monstera obliqua runs you about $200, with larger plants going for far more. One of the reasons why this monstera variety is so expensive is because it grows much slower compared to other monstera varieties. It also appears to be trending, making cuttings and established plants difficult to find. 

Mini Monstera

Classified as Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, mini monsteras are not actually monsteras at all. However, with their unique split leaves and compact size, mini monsteras are incredibly popular as houseplants. They reach no more than eight feet tall and require very minimum care, just like their monstera look-alikes. Mini monsteras are more common each and every day. However, you may end up spending at least $30 for an established plant. 

When it comes to the care of this simple houseplant, it requires a bit more heat compared to other monsteras. An average temperature of 70 degrees is ideal, and you should pay special attention to the watering of this plant. You want to make sure not to overwater it, but it enjoys humidity and moisture. Keep this one out of full sunlight as well, as its leaves are very delicate.

Monstera Acuminata

Fast-growing but also fairly compact, the monstera acuminata is another monstera variety to consider. It won’t be as easy to find as monstera deliciosa or monstera adansonii. However, it has a lot to offer and has similar levels of care. The leaves of this monstera may be strikingly similar to the monstera adansonii, but they are a darker green overall, with more veins and striking patterns. 

Monstera Dubia

If you didn’t know already, all monstera plants climb and need structural support. This is absolutely necessary for the monstera dubia. This particular monstera variety is rare and will likely need to be ordered from a specialty nursery or plant store. But it is incredibly unique and worth the hunt! The leaves attach themselves like vines to any structure, making a striking houseplant in any home. 

Monstera Peru

Just like the monstera dubia, the monstera Peru requires a structure to climb on. However, this monstera variety doesn’t grow too large and has uniquely ridged leaves without holes. They are glossy and similar in shape to a rubber tree. However, monstera Peru houseplants are much rarer compared to rubber trees. You may struggle to find one of these plants, but know that they are incredibly easy to care for if you get your hands on one. 

Monstera Lechleriana

With leaves similar in shape to an alocasia plant, the monstera lechleriana is a great choice for those of you seeking something striking and unique. While these plants are often mislabeled as monstera adansonii, you may get lucky and find one in a nursery or garden center. Like other ones there is, they enjoy humidity and indirect sunlight, thriving in temperatures above 65 degrees. 

Summary of 9 Types of Monstera Plants

Here are the 9 Types of Monstera Plants:

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