What is the difference between Philodendron and Monstera? Monstera & Philodendron Care

Both Philodendron and Monstera are popular houseplants because they are easy to care for and known for their ability to purify the air. But what is the difference between Philodendron and Monstera? The main difference between Philodendron and Monstera is that Philodendron is a climbing plant, and Monstera is a non-climbing plant. Philodendron also has heart-shaped leaves, while Monstera has large, oval-shaped leaves. This blog post will discuss the differences between Philodendron and Monstera in more detail.

What is a Philodendron?

Philodendrons are a type of plant that belongs to the Araceae family. These plants are known for their beautiful leaves, which can be of different colors, including green, pink, and red. Philodendrons are very easy to care for, thriving in bright indirect light.

One of the main differences between philodendrons and other plants is the color of their leaves. While most plants have green leaves, philodendrons have leaves in varying pink, red, or green shades. This can make them a great option if you’re looking for a plant that will add some color to your home. Philodendrons are also relatively easy to care for. They prefer bright, indirect light and should be allowed to dry out between watering. With proper care, philodendrons can thrive for years.

What Is a Monstera?

Monsteras are a type of plant that belongs to the Araceae family. They are native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Monsteras are known for their large, glossy leaves. They are a popular houseplant and can be found in many homes and offices. Monsteras are relatively easy to care for and do well in bright, indirect light. Monsteras are a great choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance plant that will add some life to their space.

Differences Between a Philodendron vs. Monstera

Philodendron and Monstera come from different plant families and have different shapes. A Philodendron has six arms that grow from a central stem, while a Monstera has vines that spread out from the main stem. Philodendron leaves are large and green, while Monstera leaves are small and brown or black. Finally, the flowers of a Philodendron are in umbels, while the flowers of a Monstera are in clusters.

Size of the Plant 

One of the easiest ways to tell the difference between Philodendron and Monstera is their size. Monstera is typically a much larger plant, reaching up to 20 feet in height and width, while philodendrons naturally only grow up to 4 or 5 feet in height. Additionally, monsteras have broad, deeply lobed leaves, while philodendrons have narrower leaves that are not lobed as much.

The shape of the Leaves 

One main difference between the two plants is that philodendron leaves are triangular, while monstera leaves are more arrowhead-shaped. Additionally, the petioles on philodendron leaves are shorter than those of Monstera. Perhaps the most visible difference, however, is that the leaflets of a philodendron leaf are arranged in opposite pairs along the length of the blade, while those of a monstera leaf are all placed on one side of the blade.

Texture of Leaves 

One of the main differences between Philodendron and Monstera is the texture of their leaves. Monstera leaves are very thin, while philodendron leaves can be quite thick. Additionally, philodendron leaves tend to be more slippery than monstera leaves.

Vines and Twigs

There is a big difference between Philodendron and Monstera regarding vines and twigs. Monstera is a vine-like plant, while Philodendron is a twig-like plant. One of the main differences between these plants is that Monstera can grow up to 20 feet tall. In contrast, Philodendron typically only grows up to 6 inches tall. Additionally, Monstera has large leaves covered in spikes, while Philodendron has smaller leaves that are not spiked.

Flowers and Fruit 

There is a big difference between flowers and fruit between the two plants. Flowers are made up of petals joined together, while fruits are composed of separate pieces attached to a stem. Furthermore, flowers have a center stem, while fruits typically have several branches emanating from the stem. Finally, flowers typically have colors depending on the species, while fruit often has uniform colors.

Petiole Differences

Petioles are the thicker stem part of a plant that attaches the leaves to the stem. Monstera has long, thin petioles that are barely visible. Philodendron also has long, thin petioles, but they are more conspicuous because they grow out of the center of the leaf.

Aerial Roots

Aerial roots are a distinguishing characteristic of philodendrons and Monstera. Philodendrons have thin aerial roots that grow directly up into the leaves. In contrast, Monstera has thick, fleshy aerial roots that grow from the stem down into the soil. The main difference between these two plants is that philodendrons require plenty of light to grow properly, whereas Monstera can thrive in low-light environments.

Stem Difference

There is a great deal of difference between the two plants. Philodendron is a static plant, meaning that it does not grow or change its shape in response to its environment. On the other hand, Monstera is a constantly growing plant that can reach heights up to 20 feet tall. Additionally, Philodendron has leaves arranged in a basal rosette around the stem. In contrast, Monstera has leaves scattered throughout the stem and grows 12 feet long. Finally, philodendron flowers are small and white with red stripes on the petals. In contrast, monstera flowers are large and green with yellow stripes.

Light needs

One major difference between philodendron and monstera plants is the amount of light they require. Philodendrons need bright, direct sunlight, while Monstera plants can thrive in a shaded environment. This can be a major consideration if you have a philodendron growing in an office window that receives little sunlight or a Monstera growing in your living room, often shaded by furniture.

Ideal Temperatures 

Philodendrons and monsteras are two types of plants known for their ideal temperatures. Monsteras are typically grown in warmer climates, while philodendrons can survive in cooler temperatures. The ideal temperature for a philodendron is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In comparison, the ideal temperature for a monstera is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fertilizer and Soil 

Philodendron and Monstera are two different types of plants grown in a garden. They both need fertilizer and soil to grow, but they have some important differences.

Philodendron and Monstera are that Philodendron needs high-quality fertilizers to grow properly. In contrast, Monstera can get by with lower-quality fertilizers. Monstera also needs more water than Philodendron since it is a wetland plant.

Water retention and Growth Habit

There is a noticeable difference between Philodendron and Monstera in water retention and growth habit. Philodendrons are known for their ability to retain water, which can help them survive in dry climates. At the same time, monsteras are generally more tolerant of high humidity levels and, therefore, able to grow larger plants with less water. Additionally, philodendrons tend to have a branching shape to grow into large plants. In contrast, Monstera typically has an upright or columnar growth habit that makes them smaller.

Philodendron vs monstera care

There is a big difference between Philodendron vs. monstera cares. Philodendron needs high-quality fertilizers and soil to grow properly, while Monstera can get by with lower-quality fertilizers. They both need water, but Monstera needs more water than Philodendron. Additionally, when watering your plants, Philodendrons like lots of water while Monsteras are more tolerant of high humidity levels. Here are some tips for caring for each type of plant:

Philodendron Care

• Choose the right light. Philodendrons require bright, direct sunlight to thrive, so place them away from windows where they will not get enough light.
• Water regularly. Philodendrons need less water than pothos plants but still water them once a week when the soil is dry to the touch and again when new growth begins to appear. Do not overwater since this can cause the plant to become rootbound and susceptible to pests and diseases.
• Feed occasionally. A balanced fertilizer will help philodendrons grow quickly and maintain their color.

Monstera Care

• Choose the right light. Monsteras like full sun and grow slowly under indirect light.
• Water regularly. Monstera needs moderate watering – give them a good soaking once a week when the soil is dry to the touch, then water sparingly throughout the rest of the week.
• Feed occasionally. A balanced fertilizer will help monsters grow quickly and maintain their color.

Which is better, Philodendron or Monstera?

There is a big difference between philodendron and Monstera plants. Philodendrons are often grown as indoor plants, while Monsteras are typically used as landscaping plants.

• Philodendrons have thin leaves that grow in a whorl around the stem, while Monsteras have thicker leaves in straight lines.
• Philodendrons need relatively high humidity levels, while Monsteras can tolerate drier conditions.
• Philodendrons usually bloom once or twice a year. At the same time, Monsteras can produce blooms every day or even several times per day.

There is no definite answer, as both have their benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and what type of plant you are looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a monstera a philodendron?

Yes, a monstera is a philodendron. They are both plants that grow large leaves and have long stems. The main difference is that a monster has more spines on its leaves and stem, making it look more like a Monster.

Is philodendron a houseplant?

Yes, Philodendrons are typically grown as houseplants but can also be grown in a greenhouse. They are not typically used as landscaping plants.

What do philodendrons look like?

Philodendrons are plants that typically have a single stem that grows tall and thin. They are often green or yellow and have small leaves at the end of their stem. 

Is a split-leaf philodendron the same thing as a Monstera?

There is a big difference between a split-leaf philodendron and a Monstera. A split-leaf philodendron is a type of plant with leaves split in half. On the other hand, Monstera has entire leaves without any splits. Additionally, Monsteras typically have more branches and are taller than split-leaf philodendrons.

What makes a plant a philodendron?

A philodendron is a plant with many leaves arranged in a fan-like shape. These leaves are also long and can reach up to 12 feet in length. Another distinguishing feature of philodendrons is their large flowers. These flowers can be up to 8 feet tall and have petals shaped like fingers. Philodendrons are native to the rainforest. They are often used as indoor plants because of their ability to tolerate low light levels.

Are pothos and Philodendron the same?

Pothos are smaller and have thicker leaves than philodendrons. They also have a lot of thorns on their stems. Philodendrons have larger leaves that are often twisted and have fewer thorns. They can grow up to 12 feet tall, but the average size is about 4 feet high.

How to identify monstera deliciosa?

There are several ways to identify Monstera deliciosa. One way is to look at the leaves. Monstera deliciosa has large, lobed leaves that are green on the top and bottom but brown on the sides. Philodendrons have smaller, more linear leaves that are green all over. Another way to identify Monstera deliciosa is to look at the stem. Monstera deliciosa has long, thin stems that are green at the base and turn yellow or brown as they grow up. Philodendrons have shorter stems that are mostly green and may or may not have a yellow or brown tinge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Philodendron and Monstera are two different plants with different appearances, needs, and benefits. Monstera is a larger plant with larger leaves that require more sunlight and space. Philodendron is a smaller plant with smaller leaves that can grow in shadier areas. Both plants have benefits, but Philodendron is often considered the better option because it is easier to care for.