Home Gardening House Plants 5 Rare Types of Monstera Plants That Are Easy to Care For These unique varieties offer a twist on the now-classic houseplant. By Leslie Corona Leslie Corona Leslie Corona is the Associate Home Director at Realsimple.com. She has been styling, organizing, writing, and reporting on all things in the home space for a decade. She was previously at Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, and Parents. She has shared her expertise on the TODAY show, Cheddar, and local television news outlets. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Published on June 11, 2024 Close Photo: Rani Irianti/Getty Images The monstera plant is one of the most popular houseplants in decorating right now thanks to its resilient nature—it can thrive in shady areas of tropical rainforests! Of the nearly 60 varieties that exist though, you’re probably most familiar with the Monstera deliciosa, which features large leaves with lots of stripe-like holes. This type in particular is pretty easy-going and doesn’t attract pests. However, you shouldn’t feel limited to the deliciosa. There are scores of different monstera types you should consider for a more varied plantscape at home—and many are just as easy to care for. Here are 5 unique types of monsteras. How to Grow and Care for Monstera Plants Many monstera varieties are toxic to pets so you may need to strategically place yours out of reach or skip this genus altogether. 01 of 05 Monstera Esqueleto Feri Handoko/Getty Images The Monstera esqueleto translates to “skeleton monstera,” and it’s clear why—the plant’s holes (aka fenestrations) make the leaves look almost skeletal. It has quite the dramatic appearance, helping it stand out from a crowd of greens. It’s quick-growing compared to other monsteras and can climb up to 6 feet indoors. 02 of 05 Monstera Pinnatipartita bgton/getty images For a slightly smaller-scale, less dramatic monstera that’s just as “hole-y” as the esqueleto, opt for the Monstera pinnatipartita, which features slimmer, heart-shaped leaves. Note that young plants do not have holes—as it matures, fenestrations will appear. And keep in mind that this type of monstera trails, so consider placing near a tall structure or trellis. 03 of 05 Monstera Dubia Rooted.com If you’re looking for an extra petite monstera, then the Monstera dubia is for you. This one typically only grows to a maximum height of 3 feet indoors. It does require some kind of support though to grow because it’s a creeping vine. Many choose a plank of wood because it nicely displays the unique zig-zag formation of the sprouting leaves. 04 of 05 Monstera Siltepecana Firn/Getty Images Also known as the silver monstera, the Monstera siltepecana is a good option if you want to add a different shade of green to your plant mix. This one has lance-shaped leaves with silvery markings, though over time and with proper care, fenestrations might develop and the silvery hue will fade. 05 of 05 Monstera Standleyana 'Albo Variegata' rukawajung/getty images If silver is not for you, try cream! The Monstera standleyana 'albo variegata' is known for its splashes of white or cream variegations. Unlike many monsteras, this one does not have or develop fenestrations. Plus, the leaves are relatively small at about 6 inches long, and the plant overall tends to grow to around 3 feet. 4 Trendy, New Houseplants That Are Easy to Care For Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit