The distinctive foliage of the Monstera genus, particularly Monstera deliciosa, has made it a highly sought-after houseplant. Its tropical, architectural appearance defines the “jungle aesthetic” many enthusiasts replicate indoors. This desire for the iconic look has increased the popularity of other plants that share similar visual traits, often causing consumer confusion. Understanding the subtle botanical differences between true Monstera and its lookalikes ensures correct identification and proper care.
Identifying Features of True Monstera
The defining characteristics of a true Monstera plant, such as M. deliciosa, appear as the plant matures. While young leaves are whole and heart-shaped, mature foliage develops distinct perforations (natural holes) within the leaf blade. These openings, along with deep splits extending from the leaf margins, create the characteristic “Swiss cheese” appearance.
The leaves are typically smooth and waxy, reaching up to three feet in diameter in ideal conditions. Monstera plants are natural climbers and epiphytes, producing thick, rope-like aerial roots from their stems. These specialized roots anchor the plant to a support structure and absorb moisture and nutrients as the plant ascends in its native Central American habitat.
The Closest Aroid Imposters
Plants frequently mistaken for Monstera belong to the same aroid family (Araceae) but are in different genera. The most common of these is Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, often incorrectly sold as “Mini Monstera” or Monstera minima. Its leaves are significantly smaller than a mature M. deliciosa, rarely exceeding eight inches, and are more oval than heart-shaped.
Although Rhaphidophora tetrasperma leaves have deep, dramatic splits, they typically lack the true, enclosed perforations found in Monstera. This fast-growing vining species is native to Thailand and Malaysia. Its overall growth habit is much more delicate and slender compared to the robust, large-scale growth of a true Monstera.
Another close imposter is the mature form of Epipremnum pinnatum, sometimes called Dragon Tail. While juvenile leaves resemble a standard Pothos, mature, climbing E. pinnatum leaves develop long slits that run nearly to the midrib, giving them a split appearance. A specific difference is found in the petiole, the stalk connecting the leaf to the stem. Epipremnum species have a deciduous petiole sheath that dries and falls off, while Monstera species have a persistent sheath.
Plants with Similar Dramatic Foliage
Other plants are confused with Monstera due to their dramatic, split, or deeply lobed foliage. The most prominent is Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, which was formerly classified as Philodendron selloum and is widely known as the Split-Leaf Philodendron. This plant is a free-standing, trunk-forming species, unlike the climbing Monstera. Its growth is outward and upward, creating a broad, shrub-like silhouette.
The confusion arises from its deeply dissected leaves, where the margins are cut into numerous large, feather-like lobes. A defining distinction is that Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum leaves do not develop the true internal perforations that characterize the Monstera genus. Furthermore, this plant relies on a thick, solid base and terrestrial roots for support, rather than the thick, clinging aerial roots of a climbing Monstera.
Certain large-leafed species from the Alocasia or Colocasia genera (Elephant Ears) may also be mistaken for Monstera due to their impressive size and tropical aesthetic. These plants feature massive, undivided leaves that are typically shield-shaped or heart-shaped. They completely lack the characteristic splits or holes found in Monstera foliage.
Care Requirements for Lookalikes
Although these plants look similar, their care requirements have important differences. Both Monstera deliciosa and Rhaphidophora tetrasperma require bright, indirect light to encourage large leaves and pronounced splits. M. deliciosa prefers its potting medium to dry out about halfway between waterings. In contrast, R. tetrasperma generally prefers to remain slightly more consistently moist, but never waterlogged.
Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum is more forgiving of lower light conditions than the climbing aroids, though growth will be slower. Thaumatophyllum prefers loamy, well-draining soil and benefits from being allowed to partially dry out between waterings.
Both Monstera and Rhaphidophora are vining climbers that benefit greatly from a vertical support, like a moss pole, for aerial root attachment, which encourages larger leaf growth. Since Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum is a self-supporting, trunk-forming plant, it does not require a pole. All three plants thrive in high humidity, ideally above 50%, and require adequate warmth, generally above 65°F (18°C).