Monstera and Philodendron are both very popular houseplants that are commonly mistaken for each other. In fact, Monstera deliciosa are often labelled as “Split leaf Philodendrons” or “Swiss cheese Philodendrons” in many stores, adding to the confusion. True Split leaf Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum and Philodendron selloum) also go by the same nickname, but are a completely different species from Monstera! So what’s the difference between a Monstera vs Philodendron?
Monstera and Philodendron are two different plant species from the same plant family. Learn more about the similarities and differences between Monstera and Philodendron and how to care for both of these beautiful houseplant species.
Learn everything you need to know to care for both of these houseplants with the Philodendron care guide and Monstera care guide,
Monstera vs Philodendron: Is a Monstera a Philodendron?
While both Monstera and Philodendron belong the the Araceae family, they are two different plant species. The confusion arises because Monstera were originally considered to be Philodendron (which how they got the nickname “Split leaf Philodendron”). It was later found out that Monstera and Philodendron are not the same species, but the nickname stuck.
Monstera is the Latin word for “monstrous” or “abnormal”, referring to the large leaves and size of this plant. In the wild, Monstera can grow up to 30 feet (9 m), with leaves up to 10 to 30 inches wide (25 to 75 cm). Young Monstera leaves are smaller in size and may not have holes in the leaves (called fenestrations). As the leaf ages, more and more fenestrations emerge.
Monstera deliciosa (nicknamed “Swiss Cheese Plant”) is named for it’s edible fruit, which tastes like a mix of banana and pineapple. They are native to tropical regions in the Americas and enjoy warm humid conditions. Monstera deliciosa will have fenestrations in their leaves while a Philodendron will not.
Philodendron’s name comes from Greek words “philo”, meaning love and “dendron”, meaning tree, due to the plant’s heart-shaped leaves. Philodendron are a large genus of flowering plants, found in the tropical Americas as well as the West Indies. Like Monstera, Philodendron thrive in warm, humid environments. They are trailing vines, and their leaves do not grow as large as a Monstera’s.
Both plants are hemiepiphytic, meaning in their native habitat, they grow both from the soil and on trees. They have aerial roots, which allow them to attach to other plants as well as collect nutrients from their environment.
Monstera & Philodendron Care
While Monstera and Philodendron are different species, their care is similar.
Monstera Care
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light. Do not like direct sunlight
- Water: Once every 1 to 2 weeks. Check that the soil is dry before watering
- Temperature: 65 – 85 °F (18 – 30 °C). Do not keep in temperatures below 60 °F (15 °C)
- Humidity: Likes humid conditions
Learn more about how to water Monstera
Philodendron Care
- Sunlight: Bright, indirect light. Do not like direct sunlight
- Water: Once every 1 to 2 weeks. Check that the soil is dry before watering
- Temperature: 65 – 85 °F (18 – 30 °C). Do not keep in temperatures below 60 °F (15 °C)
- Humidity: Likes humid conditions
Toxicity: Both plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause GI upset if ingested or skin irritation if there is prolonged contact. Keep out of reach from children and pets.
As you can see, Philodendron and Monstera care is pretty similar, with the exception of their light needs. If Monstera do not receive enough sunlight, they can lose their split leaf pattern and look like a Philodendron, while if Philodendron receive too much sunlight, they can burn their leaves.
Monstera vs Philodendron: Which Should I Choose?
To bring out the beautiful split-leaf pattern Monstera are known for, provide them with bright, indirect light (such as somewhere a few feet away from a window). Monstera do require more space than Philodendron, so if you have a large space that needs a plant, Monstera would be a great choice. While Monstera can grow tremendous heights in nature, indoors it will grow up to 6 to 10 feet (2 to 3 meters), with leaves up to 3 feet long (1 meter).
Philodendron start off with upright stems, which turn into trailing vines as the plant ages. They look great in hanging baskets and are perfect for smaller areas with less space. They are more tolerant of shade and will happily grow in most conditions.
In summary for Monstera vs Philodendron
Both of these houseplants are different and make great additions to any home with their interesting leaf shapes. With both species, keep in mind that you should check that the soil is dry before watering to prevent root rot, place them in warm rooms, and plant in well draining soil.
See our other houseplant care guides.
