Monstera Deliciosa Varieties
A comparison of the most popular Monstera Deliciosa varieties — learn which one is right for your space and skill level.
| Variety | Key Feature | Care Difficulty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monstera Deliciosa | Large split leaves with natural holes, up to 3 feet long on mature plants | Easy | $15–$50 |
| Monstera Adansonii | Narrow, elongated leaves with many oval perforations; vining/trailing growth | Easy | $15–$40 |
| Monstera Peru (Karstenianum) | Thick, bullate (puckered/ridged) leaves with deep veining and no fenestrations | Easy–Moderate | $25–$60 |
| Monstera Thai Constellation | Stable creamy-yellow variegation on every leaf, slower growth, larger mature size | Moderate | $100–$300+ |
| Monstera Albo Borsigiana | Unstable pure white variegation patches; smaller leaves than standard deliciosa; faster vining habit | Moderate–Hard | $200–$2,000+ |
Variety Details
Monstera Deliciosa
The classic Swiss Cheese Plant with large, dramatic split leaves. The most common and affordable variety.
Distinguishing feature: Large split leaves with natural holes, up to 3 feet long on mature plants
Care notes: Standard Monstera care applies. Most forgiving of the varieties.
Monstera Adansonii
A smaller-leafed species with more numerous, oval-shaped holes rather than splits. Often called the "Swiss Cheese Vine" for its trailing habit.
Distinguishing feature: Narrow, elongated leaves with many oval perforations; vining/trailing growth
Care notes: Similar care but prefers slightly higher humidity. More prone to spider mites. Easier to propagate.
Monstera Peru (Karstenianum)
A compact variety with thick, puckered, ridged leaves and no holes or splits. Often confused with Monstera Punctulata.
Distinguishing feature: Thick, bullate (puckered/ridged) leaves with deep veining and no fenestrations
Care notes: More tolerant of lower light than deliciosa. Water less frequently — thick leaves store moisture. Slightly harder to find.
Monstera Thai Constellation
A stunning, stable variegated variety with cream-yellow splotches across every leaf. Lab-created in Thailand, it retains its variegation reliably unlike Albo.
Distinguishing feature: Stable creamy-yellow variegation on every leaf, slower growth, larger mature size
Care notes: Needs more bright indirect light to compensate for less chlorophyll. More expensive ($100–$300+). Avoid direct sun which burns white areas. Less tolerant of overwatering.
Monstera Albo Borsigiana
A naturally occurring variegated form with striking white patches. Unlike Thai Constellation, variegation is unstable — leaves can revert to all-green or go all-white.
Distinguishing feature: Unstable pure white variegation patches; smaller leaves than standard deliciosa; faster vining habit
Care notes: The most expensive variety ($200–$2,000+). White portions cannot photosynthesize, so the plant needs more light. All-white leaves should be trimmed — they drain energy. Prone to browning on white areas. High humidity (70%+) recommended.