However, you might be asking if Monstera leaves generally split. Only a few Monstera species don’t generate leaves with splits. Two prominent examples are Monstera standleyana and Monstera peru. These Monstera species won’t develop fenestrated leaves.
Why aren’t the leaves on my monstera splitting?
Age and sufficient light are the two main causes of the fenestrations that some members of the monstera genus develop.
Age
As a monstera matures, its leaves become fenestrated, and no amount of wishful thinking will cause the plant’s leaves to split before it is ready. Monsteras are born with small, sturdy, heart-shaped leaves that gradually get larger as the plant matures. Once a monstera has grown to a width and height of at least 3 feet, it typically starts to develop the distinctive deep cuts. As a juvenile monstera develops fenestrations, you’ll also observe that it happens gradually and that each leaf’s number of splits grows with time. Therefore, patience is essential if you recently bought a little monstera and are waiting for your first split-leaf. Maybe the plant needs more time.
Light
If your monstera has been growing without producing split leaves for a while, it might not be getting enough light. As they mature, monsteras require a steady supply of strong, indirect light in order to develop split leaves. In order to save energy, a monstera grown in low light settings will not develop fenestrations and will instead push out tiny leaves. Consider using a grow light if there isn’t enough natural light for your plant.
Does monstera come in varieties that don’t split?
Monsteras, or Swiss Cheese Plants, are well-known for their lush, split leaves. However, there are some circumstances in which your monstera’s leaves might not be splitting or developing any holes.
While not always the case, this frequently indicates that your monstera is having trouble adjusting to its surroundings. These are the most typical problems, according to our research, if you notice that your monstera isn’t generating split leaves; Plant maturity, inadequate lighting, seasonal fluctuations, or improper watering.
Why do certain leaves of monstera split?
Scientists disagree on the purpose of these leaves. Although it is generally accepted that Monstera have splits to control light, I believe all three hypotheses are as plausible and share the same overarching cause:
To aid in the plant’s faster growth and development of strength and size, monsteras have splits in their leaves.
Reason #1 that Monstera have splits: light
Currently, it is widely accepted that Monstera plants have splits in their leaves so that light can pass through them and reach the lower leaves.
As monstera move closer to the light, their leaves get bigger because they need more energy to support their expanding size.
However, a large leaf will block the light that can be absorbed generally by the leaves below it. Therefore, the cracks and holes allow light to pass through.
This is reasonable.
Compared to Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansonii tends to be bushier and have shorter petioles, which results in more obvious holes from the start.
Reason #2 that Monstera have splits: water
Getting wet leaves is unpleasant for plants. At the very least, it closes their stomata, and at the worst, it might make them rot and let bacterial and fungal infections spread.
The nodes and roots of plants do enjoy being wet. They are able to swiftly absorb nutrients and water.
By allowing rain to easily pass through the leaves without sitting on them and allowing the rain to easily reach the ground where the roots may absorb the water, having fenestrated leaves kills two birds with one stone.
Reason #3 that Monstera have splits: wind
This seems less probable to be the reason that Monstera developed to have fenestrated leaves because they don’t often reside in exposed regions (though they’ll try any conditions), but it’s still worth mentioning because Monstera will adapt to any situations.
It is most likely one of the causes for Monstera Deliciosa’s reputation as an invasive species.
The plant can receive wind through the perforations in the leaves without being knocked over. It seems logical, doesn’t it?
By the way, it’s believed that the split leaves of Bird of Paradise plants are a wind defense mechanism. Compared to Monstera, they often reside in regions that are more exposed and have easier access to light.
However, due to Monstera’s adaptability, their holey leaves have undoubtedly allowed them to flourish in exposed locations for which they weren’t *technically* intended.
I believe fenestrated leaves serve multiple functions, whether or not that is what they are intended to do.
Option 1: Wait
Depending on how young and little your monstera plant is, you might just need to give it some time.
Young monsteras almost resemble a distinct plant because of their sturdy, heart-shaped leaves. Your monstera should grow and finally form those lovely holes and splits on its own when it is between two and three years old with adequate light, the proper quantity of water, and a little fertilizer. Be tolerant!
Option 2: More light!
This is typically the most crucial thing you can do to encourage your monstera leaves to split. However, without plenty of bright, indirect sunlight, monsteras won’t grow much or produce many splits (or numerous rows of splits), even though they can survive in reduced light. Your monstera leaves might not split even if you follow all other instructions to the letter without the proper light.
If you buy a mature monstera with split leaves, lower light may work, especially if you don’t want it to grow much bigger and take over your house (since monsteras often do!).
However, you’ll need good lighting if you have a young plant that you want to observe develop and flourish. The best windows are those that face east or south, while north can still be used. Just be extremely careful around windows that face west since they often receive a lot of direct, scorching afternoon light that might burn the leaves.
Don’t worry if your home lacks excellent illumination. A grow light can always be used as a supplement. To replace greenhouse-style lights that you may get from nurseries, you can either purchase ready-made grow lights or install grow bulbs in standard light fixtures.
Allow Bright, Indirect Sunlight Exposure
Among all the elements that support fenestration on a monstera, light is at the top of the list.
The majority of Monstera plants I’ve come across that don’t fenestrate are frequently planted in a dimly lit, shaded section of the home.
Is Monstera deliciosa the same as split leaf philodendron?
People regularly mix up the terms monstera and philodendron and frequently do so. In fact, it’s not unusual to encounter Monstera in your neighborhood nursery or plant store that has been mislabeled as a split-leaf Philodendron. Even the internet can’t seem to agree because some threads and blogs on plant care say Monstera and split-leaf Philodendron are the same plant while others say they’re not, and searching for pictures doesn’t seem to help either. You are not the only one who is uncertain about whether a Monstera is a variety of Philodendron.
Is a Split-Leaf Philodendron the same as a Monstera Deliciosa? They are not the same plant, though. Monsteras and split-leaf Philodendrons are of a separate genus and species, while belonging to the same scientific class, order, and family, and even though they may resemble one another, especially when they are young.
Although the phrases are sometimes used interchangeably, the two plants are not the same in terms of science. Knowing the differences between split-leaf Philodendrons and Monsteras may help you better understand plant taxonomy and may prevent you from inadvertently buying the incorrect houseplant. Read on to discover the similarities and differences between monsteras and philodendrons.
How can I tell what kind of Monstera I have?
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The monstera plant is highlighted among the diverse plants found in the world of houseplants. These plants may provide a touch of charm to almost any area thanks to their attractive greenery and beautiful foliage. I have no doubt that the monstera wave has already washed you and that you are already surrounded by a collection of monstera.
The way the leaves are linked to the stem makes monstera unique. the dimensions and design of their holes. Unvariegated plants are difficult to distinguish from one another. However, you can recognize them and perceive the variation as they get more fenestrations.
Monstera Borsigniana
Given how difficult it is to tell the two apart when they’re young, this is actually a variant of deliciosa and may be sold under that name.
Examining the stem is one technique to determine. Where the leaf joins the stem, deliciosas frequently pucker, ruffle, or develop lovely tiny bumps, whereas borsigniana does not. Likely smaller and expanding more quickly than deliciosa is borsigniana. Unlike deliciosa, mature plants typically create two clean rows of holes or slits rather than producing holes more randomly.
Never fear if you get one of these instead of a deliciosa! It still makes a magnificent addition to your home even though it can grow just as tall, almost as big, and a little bit faster.
Monstera Variegata
Monsteras that are variegated are not distinct plants, but rather a difference in color. These plants may even appear to have been painted white. Personally, I adore them.
Plants that have white, cream, and green patterns are said to be variegated. These plants are typically more expensive and more difficult to find.
By the way, if you’re fortunate enough to discover them, several of the varieties on this list are also available in variegated form! (For additional information, see Where to Find a Variegated Monstera in our blog!)
Monstera Adansonii
Although the holes in this type are not as enormous as those in the deliciosa, they are still rather big! About 50% of the leaf is usually taken up by the holes.
As real obliqua are quite uncommon, you can be sure that if you see this label in a nursery, you’re actually looking at a monstera adansonii. These are reasonably common, but they are also frequently mislabeled as monstera obliqua. In comparison to obliqua, adansonii often has thicker, rougher leaves.
Monstera Pinnatipartita
These plants produce unusually large, glossy leaves with slits rather than holes that extend to the leaf’s edge. The leaf stems are strong and rigid, and they are an exquisite shade of emerald green. Although they are a little more difficult to locate, you can typically find one or two online.
Monstera Dubia
One of my favorites is this. Small, heart-shaped leaves with both dark and light green coloring are a distinctive feature of this cultivar. Although not truly multicolored, it is getting close. With shorter stems and leaves that encroach closer to whatever the plant is climbing, it develops like a vine.
Monstera Siltepecana
Large, teardrop-shaped leaves with smaller holes clustered around the center vein characterize this attractive cultivar. They have both dark and light green colours and are frequently paler than other monsteras. Gorgeous! Though more difficult to locate, they are stunning if you can find one.
Monstera Obliqua
We’re sorry to break it to you, but Home Depot or really anywhere else won’t have this. But we still wanted to include it because it’s so cool!
These beautiful plants still retain their distinctive holes, but they usually have more holes than leaves. These plants are exceedingly delicate, therefore you won’t find them in nurseries. The holes can remove up to 90% of the paper-thin leaves. However, if you’re lucky, you might be able to see them in select botanical gardens. Only 17 instances of this plant have been recorded in the wild, and it is frequently researched for potential hybridization with other species.
Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma or “Mini Monstera
We’re lying here because this plant isn’t a monstera in the strictest sense (you undoubtedly realized that from the scientific name), but they look lovely with one!
The leaves of this plant have the same distinctive holes as monstera, but the huge holes on this plant tend to extend all the way to the leaf edge and have a more notched appearance. These monstera cultivars are easier to grow and more accessible than some of the more exotic monstera kinds. The rich green hue is beautiful. Mini Monstera Care Tips can be found here. Click here to view this plant on Amazon!
What distinguishes deliciosa from Monstera Adansonii?
Avoid being duped by the many fraudulent adverts that are present, whether they are false intentionally or unintentionally. The Monstera adansonii and deliciosa can be distinguished from one another by the following characteristics.
Size of the Leaf
The size of the leaves is one of the key distinctions between Monstera deliciosa and adansonii.
Compared to deliciosa, adansonii often has smaller leaves. The ovate leaves of adansonii can only reach a length of 25–70 cm (10–12 in).
While its lamina generally enlarges to a width that is between 6 and 18 inches and 15 to 45 centimeters wide.
While deliciosa shines out with shiny, green foliage that can appear enormous.
Usually, its leaves are 25–90 cm (10–35 in) long and 25–70 cm (10–30 in) wide when they first appear. In their natural environment, leaves can potentially grow to a height of 100 cm (40 in).
Remember that under some conditions, the leaf size fluctuates. As a result, in ideal conditions with enough water, sunlight, and fertilizer, plant leaves may appear large. If not, leaves could get smaller.
Hole in the Leaves
The gaps between Monstera deliciosa and adansonii are a second identifying characteristic. These two types of holes have different sizes, shapes, and counts. International Aroid Society, n.d.
Adansonii has holes that vary in size and form but are typically elliptical in shape.
On each side of the leaf midrib, the series of holes are smaller but more frequent. Adansonii leaves can develop between 8 and 16 holes.
On the other side, Deliciosa has much longer perforations that are between 0.5 and 0.8 cm long.
These holes often have an oblong shape and a semi-round shape. The deliciosa also has fewer holes, with 1 to 5 on each side of a leaf.
So you may pretty much be sure that a Monstera is an adansonii if it contains a cluster of thin and entire incisions.
It appears that you have deliciosa if your plant has fewer holes than is typical for the species.
Just remember that as the Monstera becomes older, the perforations in the leaves appear. As a result, a younger plant may look practically uncut while it is young.
Edges of the Leaves
Along with being different in size and number of holes, Monstera deliciosa and adansonii leaves also differ in how they are edged.
Adansonii resembles those common plants with rounded edges. Furthermore, if you trace the trail through its leaves from both sides, it will be straight and uninterrupted.
This isn’t like the deliciosa. There will be gaps because deliciosa has perforations between the main leaf veins that run from the midrib to the edges. The leaf boundary will look uneven and asymmetrical while being smooth.
Geniculum
The geniculum of the Monstera deliciosa is its most distinctive characteristic. The portion of the plant that connects a leaf to a petiole or stem is referred to as a geniculum.
The deliciosa will get ruffles after it grows and reaches semi- or full maturity.
The upper leaf base’s two sides will develop complex waves. This curved part is similar to a plant muscle that gives flexibility, such as the ability to move with the wind.
Whether they are in their early or mature stages, adansonii never grow a wrinkled geniculum like deliciosa does. Its petiole and leaf will always unite at a straight, smooth juncture.
Growth Habit
You might be able to tell an adansonii from a deliciosa by looking at the Monstera’s growth pattern.
A monstera deliciosa has a propensity for spreading out. This plant has a propensity to sprawl widely, expanding its stems to match. They acclimate slowly, but finally they tend to vine.
Adansonii has a more trailing quality than deliciosa. As the preferred Monstera in hanging baskets, they stand out because to the way they stretch and hang down. They are also a fantastic choice for training around a stand because of the way they loosely grow over a surface.
You most likely have an adansonii if your plant droops toward the ground and has a vining habit. If your plant enjoys creeping horizontally, you may be raising a deliciosa at home in the meantime.
Plant Height
There’s a good chance you have a Monstera adansonii if your houseplant is little and cute-looking.
Adansonii vines only grow between 2 and 6 meters in length (7 to 20 feet). Compared to the deliciosa, which has a 9-meter height, this is noticeably smaller (30 feet). In its natural environment, the deliciosa might possibly grow to a greater height. (Reference: Florida University)
However, you must keep in mind that plant growth and development might differ based on a number of circumstances.
Therefore, it may be easier to identify differences between two plants if they were growing at the same period and under similar circumstances.
Price
You most likely own a Monstera adansonii if you didn’t pay a significant amount of money for your plant.
Deliciosa is substantially more expensive than an adansonii. Deliciosa is offered for sale in the market in denominations of $20 to $100. Depending on the size and quantity of leaves of the plant, this price can potentially skyrocket.
Just by looking at the pricing, you may browse Amazon and attempt to separate the deliciosa from the adansonii, and vice versa.