The Monstera genus represents a diverse group of tropical flowering plants native to the rainforests of Central and South America. These climbing, evergreen vines have captivated plant enthusiasts worldwide due to their distinctive leaves that develop natural holes and splits, a feature known as fenestration. Determining the exact number of “types” of Monstera can be confusing because the total count depends on whether one refers to scientifically recognized species, natural subspecies, or cultivated varieties. Understanding this difference is important for grasping the full breadth of the genus, from its wild origins to the rare, high-value plants seen in collections today.
The Officially Recognized Species Count
The most precise answer to how many types exist comes from botany, which focuses on species found in their natural habitat. The Monstera genus contains approximately 40 to 50 accepted species, though some sources cite up to 59 species, depending on current taxonomic research. These are distinct biological units that reproduce naturally in the wild, primarily in the tropical regions of the Americas.
This scientific count emphasizes the true diversity of the genus, which extends far beyond the few species commonly sold as houseplants. Each species possesses unique characteristics, such as different leaf shapes, growth habits, and patterns of fenestration, adapted to their specific ecological niches.
The Most Common and Distinct Types
While dozens of species exist in nature, the average plant enthusiast is most familiar with just a few widely cultivated types. Monstera deliciosa is the most recognizable, commonly called the Swiss Cheese Plant. It is known for its large, glossy leaves that develop deep splits and internal holes upon maturity. This species is a robust climber and can produce leaves over three feet wide in optimal conditions.
A popular species is Monstera adansonii, often referred to as the Swiss Cheese Vine or Monkey Mask Plant. Unlike the large splits of M. deliciosa, M. adansonii leaves are smaller and more delicate, featuring pronounced, oval-shaped holes that rarely reach the edges. Its vining growth habit makes it well-suited for hanging baskets or climbing on vertical supports like moss poles.
Monstera standleyana offers a distinct alternative because its leaves typically lack the characteristic holes and splits, or only exhibit subtle fenestrations at full maturity. This species is recognized by its elongated, lance-shaped leaves that remain mostly whole and solid green. Its primary appeal often comes from its naturally occurring speckled variegation.
Prized and Variegated Cultivars
Beyond the natural species, the number of “types” expands significantly when considering cultivars. Cultivars are plants selected and propagated for desirable traits. Variegation, a pattern of white or yellow coloring on the green leaves, is the most prized trait in the Monstera market, leading to high-value cultivars. These variegated plants are not new species but selected genetic variations of existing species.
The Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ is a highly sought-after cultivar, named for the speckling of creamy-yellow color scattered across its leaves, resembling a galaxy. This variety was developed in a laboratory through tissue culture. This process ensures its variegation is stable and consistently expressed, making the ‘Thai Constellation’ easier to manage than other variegated types.
In contrast, the Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’ (often simply called Monstera Albo) exhibits a high-contrast, sectoral variegation with large blocks of pure white against the deep green. The ‘Albo’ is a natural chimeral mutation, meaning the variegation is unstable and can revert back to solid green if not properly managed through selective pruning. The unpredictable nature of its striking pattern contributes to its high value.