Monstera deliciosa kingdom
Oh, the Monstera deliciosa - the plant that launched a thousand Instagram posts! This stunning tropical beauty has captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide, and honestly, who can blame them? With those iconic split leaves (technically called fenestrations) and its laid-back tropical vibe, it's basically the plant equivalent of a cool beach vacation.
monstera deliciosa
Native to the rainforests of Southern Mexico and Panama, these climbers have become the darling of the houseplant world.
Large form! Small form! BORSIGIANA!!
Now, here's where things get a bit... complicated. If you've been in the plant community for a while, you've probably heard about "large form" and "small form" Monsteras, and the mysterious Monstera deliciosa var. borsigiana. Let me tell you - this topic has caused more debate than pineapple on pizza!
Here's my opinion: while many sellers distinguish between "large form" and "borsigiana" (supposedly a smaller, faster-growing variant), botanically speaking, borsigiana is considered a synonym of Monstera deliciosa, not a separate variety.
The size differences people observe might just be due to growing conditions, maturity, or natural variation. But hey, the plant world loves a good mystery, right?
The fancy variegated cousins
Monstera Albo Variegata
monstera deliciosa 'albo'
The supermodel of the Monstera world! With its striking white patches contrasting against deep green, the Albo is like a plant wearing a designer outfit. Each leaf is unique, sporting its own pattern of white variegation. Fair warning: this beauty knows its worth and comes with a price tag to match!
Monstera Aurea Variegata
monstera deliciosa 'aurea'
Think of Aurea as the Albo's golden sibling. Instead of white variegation, it shows gorgeous yellow patterns that can sometimes look almost neon. It's rarer than the Albo and somehow even more expensive.
Thai Constellation
monstera deliciosa 'thai constellation'
This stunner was created in a lab in Thailand (hence the name) and features cream-colored speckles that look like a starry night sky. Unlike its Albo cousin, Thai Constellation's variegation is more stable and consistent, thanks to its tissue culture origin (and genetic!). It's like the reliable friend who always shows up looking fantastic.
Monstera Mint Variegata
monstera deliciosa 'mint'
The newest one! Mint variegation is common accross many plants. It gives leaves a soft, minty green color mixed with the standard dark green. It's still pretty rare as of today and can be tricky to find, but it's gaining popularity recently.
The mini Monstera, or the big impostor?
Here's a fun fact that might blow your mind: that cute little plant marketed as "Mini Monstera" isn't actually a Monstera at all! I know, right? While it does rock those lovely split leaves that might remind you of a baby Monstera, it's actually a completely different genus.
rhaphidophora tetrasperma
Think of R. tetrasperma as more of a fashion-forward cousin who copied Monstera's style. It's gorgeous in its own right, but calling it a Mini Monstera is like calling a leopard a small tiger - same family vibes, totally different beast!