“Giant leaves, dramatic appearance and easy peasy care requirements ”
I have adored Monstera since I first read about it.
It’s true that Monstera plants are among the best tropical plants available. I’m writing this blog because lately, I’ve spotted them in almost every neighbour’s home, giving me a glimpse of Indian home gardens being taken over by this leafy trend.
If you love adding a touch of green to your space, chances are you’ve already come across the beautiful Monstera plant. But there’s so much more to explore beyond just basic care. For instance, did you know there’s more than one type of Monstera? Yup, it’s not just the famous one with the Swiss-cheese-style leaves!
When people ask what different types of plants they can grow indoors, Monsteras tops the list. Once you discover the existing types of Monstera in the plant world, you’ll want to plant each and every variety more and more.
Top Varieties of Monstera
1. Monstera Deliciosa
When most of us refer to Monstera, this is the one we mean. Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is the classic variety beloved by plant enthusiasts. It features large, shiny green leaves with deep splits and natural perforations, bringing in that Instagrammable vibe we all love. As a young plant, it may or may not have holes in its leaves, but as it matures, the leaves grow larger, about 2 to 3 feet long, and become more dramatic. It gets its name from both its “monstrous” appearance and the delicious fruit it produces in the rainforest. With proper care, it can grow quite large, even indoors!
2. Monstera Broken Heart/Adansonii
Now, let me introduce you to Monstera Broken Heart, also known as Monstera adansonii, a smaller and much cuter version of Monstera deliciosa. Among the popular Monstera varieties, this one stands out with its often ovate or heart-shaped, small, delicate leaves filled with fenestrations.
It’s a vine plant which is perfect for hanging pots, giving it support with moss poles or letting it trail gracefully down a shelf. It thrives in humidity, so if your home offers that kind of environment, you’ve just found the perfect plant companion.
3. Monstera Borsigiana
It is what I will call the lookalike of Monstera Deliciosa, but with a bit smaller leaves. If you're tight on space but still want the classic Monstera look, this is a great option. It’s easy to care for, and just like its cousin, it prefers bright, indirect sunlight and light watering. Its leaves may have slight variegations, giving it a marbled yellowish-green hue. Its compact size is something that makes it perfect for hanging baskets.
4. Monstera Obliqua
Talking about rare plant varieties that adorn my home, Monstera Obliqua is a plant that will keep coming up. Now, this one is a bit of a show-off primarily because of its variations. It may or may not develop fenestrations like others of its kind. It’s super delicate and quite rare, so not every nursery will have it. It’s a tough-to-grow variety, which is why it also comes in the list of expensive houseplants. It needs high humidity, so it does better in a closed terrarium or a humid city.
5. Monstera Standleyana
This one's a bit different. Its leaves are long, narrow, and don’t have holes like other Monstera plants. But nature has made them very eye-catching because of the white or cream streaks on their leaves. It loves to climb, so give it a moss pole or a stick to hold on to, and it’ll happily grow upward.
6. Monstera Dubia
The Monstera Dubia is a slow grower, and leaves stay flat against whatever it’s climbing. The young leaves are small and heart-shaped, comprising lovely patterns (one of the reasons that makes it my favourite too). It is also popularly known as the Shingle plant. It may not give you the big, dramatic look like the Deliciosa, but it's charming in its own quiet way.
7. Monstera Pinnatipartita
Is it only me, or does it sound like a Harry Potter spell to you as well? Well, jokes apart, it is another lesser-known species of Monstera which is often overlooked due to the popularity of Deliciosa. It is also a climbing vine that clings to trees near it, even in the rainforest. Its leaves may also change throughout the course of its growth; for example, the yellow hue that you might find on a young leaf might disappear as it matures.
8. Monstera Peru
You can place the Monstera Peru in a medium pot, where it grows vigorously when given the right amount of care. If you are looking for fenestrations like other members of its family, this is not the variety to go for. Instead, the plant is among those members of the Monstera family which is known for their embossed, thick leaves. It has fewer light requirements than other species on this list.
Tips for Growing Monstera Indoors in India
- Sunlight: Like you would’ve already noted for all the above varieties, the Monstera plant doesn’t ask for much but loves to be placed near bright, indirect sunlight or a place of partial sunlight. Imagine your windows near balconies giving a vibrant appeal and a feel of the indoor jungle with Monstera placed near them. Also, avoid keeping them in direct sun, especially during hot afternoons, as it can burn the leaves.
- Watering: Overwatering can kill your plant. The best way to check if Monstera still needs watering is by sticking your finger in the soil; if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water. Generally, watering the plant once a week is enough.
- Humidity: Being the native plants of the rainforests, Monsteras enjoy humidity. If you live in a dry area, mist the leaves once in a while.
- Potting Mix: Use well-draining soil, which can be prepared with the right mixture of cocopeat, garden soil, and vermicompost. The next thing to check here is the use of the pot with drainage holes, as it helps prevent root rot.
- Pests: Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and fungus gnats can pose threats to your favourite Monstera plant. Make sure you take the preventative measures beforehand. For example, use of neem oil or any insecticide soap.
- Pruning: Pruning your Monstera plant can lead to healthier and bushier growth.
Final Thoughts
Monstera is not just a pretty plant whose leaves steal the spotlight; it’s also incredibly forgiving, making it a top choice for beginners. If you’re wondering how many types of plants there are in the Monstera family alone, you’ll be surprised to know there are quite a few, each with its own charm. So, if you’re confused about which plant to order next, Monstera is a green companion worth considering.
In this blog, we took you on a trip through the Monstera world and the types of big, glossy, and often hole-y leaves you can find there. At Urvann, we are building a community of plant lovers who simply can’t get over their obsession with greens. If you’re a busy individual searching for fresh and lively plant varieties, you now know where to look. Get your greens delivered right to your doorstep!
Frequently Asked Questions about Types of Monstera You Can Grow Indoors
What is the best Monstera plant variety for indoors?
Monstera is one of the favourite large-leaved plants to keep indoors. The best and well-known variety is Monstera Deliciosa. It stands as a great option for adding greenery to the indoor spaces. Deliciosa is very attractive and has become a popular choice because of its easy care requirements and ability to purify air.
Can a Monstera plant thrive Indoors?
Yes, Monstera plants can thrive indoors. They have fewer care requirements and can adapt well to any beginner’s indoor garden. Bringing them home can increase the aesthetic appeal, reduce stress and watching them thrive will give you a sense of accomplishment. They do well in medium to bright indirect light, and with the right watering schedule and occasional humidity, they can grow large and healthy inside.
What is the rarest Monstera Type?
Some of the Monstera varieties are hard to find and can be termed as rarest; they are:
Monstera Obliqua has very delicate, thin leaves with large holes, making it one of the rare types. Monstera Pinnatipartita, which is also found less among plant collectors, but can be quite expensive.
What is the best fertilizer for a Monstera Plant?
The best fertiliser for Monstera plants can be a balanced liquid fertilizer that is rich in nutrients, such as NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium). A 20-20-20 fertiliser is typically good for general growth. You can also use organic fertilisers, like vermicompost, as an excellent option.
What kind of care requirements does Monstera prefer?
Monstera grows well in bright indirect sunlight. They prefer moist soil and frequent watering. One of the best ways to water them is to check if the topmost layer of the soil appears dry; if it does, then it’s time to give your plant a good shower.
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