In total, there’s a whopping 45 species of Monstera, all of them belonging to a family of plants called arum. The name monstera comes from the latin word for monstrous or abnormal - referring to their giant leaves with cheese-like holes that members! 

Although we all know about Monstera Deliciosa, the others are just as beautiful and easy to care for. Whether you have a large living space or living in a small city apartment, we’re bound to stock one that fits your needs! Have a look at these wonderful Monsteras below.

Monstera deliciosa

These beauties are the ones that first pop into our mind when we think of Monsteras. A quick grower and eye-pleaser, this species welcomes all plant lovers. They are commonly grown indoors as a houseplant, either trained up a moss pole or trailing down in a pot. But did you know, they’re also cultivated for the deliciosa edible fruit? It apparently tastes like a combination of banana and pineapple! Unfortunately, they don’t tend to fruit as indoor plants but you’ll still be graced with their huge, tropical leaves.

Monstera deliciosa 'Variegatum'

The Variegated Monstera is a beauty to behold. And yes, she is just as rare as you think. Neither plant is the same and they can’t be mass-produced, so these beauties are extremely hard to come by. She’s just like her sister, Monstera deliciosa, but each leaf looks like they’ve been hand-painted with shades of green and white. However, we wouldn’t recommend her to a newbie. Because of her white leaves, she can’t photosynthesise as well as her greener family, making her harder to care for. This one sells fast, so you better be quick! 

Monstera adansonii

The Monkey Mask Monstera is a smaller but just as gorgeous Monstera plant. They look great cascading from hanging pots or even growing in a hydroponic system! They’re perfect for hanging off a ledge and bookshelves or climbing up a moss pole. Because of their smaller leaf size, these plants are perfect for smaller spaces and still help you achieve that urban jungle look. If they start to look too wild, just prune them right back! The more you prune, the bushier they’ll look. These are quick to go, so grab them whilst you can!

Monstera mini - The Elephant in the room

Despite the name and their disguising looks, the Monstera mini has nothing to do with Monsteras. They come from the genus Rhaphidorphora and are native in Southern Thailand, through to Malaysia. Famous for their fenestrated leaves and speedy growth, these easy-care vines are great for plant parents with little time.

Monsteras are generally easy to care for and pretty low maintenance. 

Light

Place them in a spot with low to bright indirect light spaces and they’ll thrive. Exposing them to direct sunlight will burn their leaves. 

Water 

Water when the top 50% of soil is dry, and water generously until it flows through the drainage holes. Always discard excess water when watering. Monsteras are known for getting 'wet feet' and can develop root rot if they sit in water for too long.

Feed

Fertilise once a month during spring and summer to help promote growth and healthy roots.

Temperature

Avoid cool drafts and direct heat from heaters. They like to be kept at an ambient temperature between 15 °C to 25 °C. Never let the temperature drop below 12.5 °C.

Cleaning

Their large leaves are excellent dust catchers. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them looking their best.

If you’re not familiar with Monsteras, you might be surprised to find air roots growing from the main stem. They start off green and smooth, then turn brown and woodier as they mature. Being epiphytes, they use their air roots to climb, mostly up trees, to reach more light. Not only are these crafty plants climbing masters, but their air roots also absorb moisture from the air and surfaces they touch. A true evolutionary beauty!

Well, some people suggest cutting them off, but we prefer the au naturel look. Cutting them off can also slow their growth, and if you want to get those gorgeous, fenestrated leaves, then just let them be. If you want to tame those jungle beasts, place a moss pole in the soil and they’ll grow happy and strong.

Unfortunately, no. Monsteras contain insoluble calcium oxalates making them highly toxic. If ingested, it can cause burning of the lips and mouth, drooling, vomiting and oral swelling. They’re unlikely to cause death but can cause some serious irritation. Make sure to consult a vet if ingested.