Monstera plants are one of the coolest and popular houseplants in recent years, with their nice leaves, easy to care for needs, and super flexible use. If you’re looking for a plant that looks good on Instagram or is a possible long-term investment due to its many rare varieties on the market, then Monstera may be just what you need. In this blog post we dive deep into 15 rare Monstera varieties so you can make a smart choice when buying your next houseplant!
1. Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’
You know those photos you see on social media of someone’s Monstera with leaves the size of elephant ears? Chances are, that envy-inducing plant is a Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana.’ This rare cultivar takes the iconic split-leaf Monstera we all love and turns the volume up to 11.
While your average household Monstera produces leaves a modest foot across, the ‘Borsigiana’ enters monster territory, unfurling intricate foliage two feet or more in diameter. Each leaf is a natural work of art, glossy green and abundantly perforated, with deep sinuses that give it a palmate appearance. Even as a youngster, this variety makes an impact with its substantial, sculptural leaves on climbing stems.
Give it proper support and bright, indirect light, and the ‘Borsigiana’ grows vigorously into a showstopper centerpiece. Its vining habit allows those capacious leaves to freely branch out as they reach for the heavens. Before you know it, just one plant can create a living wall of natural art.
For those drawn to statement-making houseplants, the Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’ is a must-have variety. Watching those enormous, intricately formed leaves unfurl from petite beginnings never gets old. This beauty earns its reputation as the supermodel of split-leaf Monsteras.
2. Monstera deliciosa ‘Variegata’
The exceptionally rare Monstera deliciosa ‘Variegata’ stops plant lovers in their tracks with its showy, one-of-a-kind foliage. Each leaf exhibits unique variegation, splashed and flecked with areas of creamy ivory that contrast elegantly against the deep green background. Gazing at a ‘Variegata,’ no two leaves ever look identical. The mesmerizing patterns lead the eye on a journey across the foliage, like following a meandering path through a lush forest. Adding to the visual intrigue are the iconic Monstera perforations dotting each leaf, filtering light and creating striking backlighting effects. This vining charmer makes a luminous statement in any indoor space, its foliage looking beautifully hand-painted by nature. For collectors seeking unique houseplants, the ‘Variegata’ is a true trophy variety – an uncommon jewel that dazzles with its rare and changeable beauty.
3. Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo-Variegata’
The exceptionally rare Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo-Variegata’ is a coveted prize for houseplant collectors. This variety dazzles with its unpredictable foliage, boldly splashed in hues of white, green, and creamy yellow. Each leaf exhibits unique and changeable variegation, from subtle white speckles to wildly contrasting zones of color. Some leaves showcase sectors, dramatic wedge-shaped patterns that make a stunning statement. No two leaves ever look identical on the ‘Albo-Variegata’ making it a fascinating plant to observe over time. Beyond its variegation, its iconic split leaves and aerial roots capture the sculptural beauty Monstera fans adore. As a slow but steady grower, the ‘Albo-Variegata’ remains highly sought-after by collectors ready to give this rarity the care it deserves. For any Monstera enthusiast wishing to add show-stopping foliage to their collection, this distinctive variety is a true trophy find.
4. Monstera deliciosa ‘Aurea’
For those seeking a vibrant twist on a classic houseplant, Monstera deliciosa ‘Aurea’ saturates any space with its bright golden-green leaves. This rare variety puts a luminous spin on the iconic split-leaf Monstera, its foliage a showy lime hue that gleams under grow lights or near sunlit windows. Each leaf exhibits the quintessential Monstera perforations and lobed form, but drenched in mesmerizing chartreuse tones that appear hand-painted. ‘Aurea’ adds striking color contrast when paired with other plants, its neon foliage drawing the eye with its glow. An exceptionally striking cultivar, Monstera ‘Aurea’ is slower growing than the species but worth the patience to see those neon leaves unfurl. For the intrepid collector ready to provide this beauty ideal care, ‘Aurea’ brings a dynamic, modern vibe to any plant display with its vibrant golden foliage.
5. Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’
With its cosmic foliage of green, white, and cream, the exceptionally rare Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ lives up to its celestial name. This variety exhibits mesmerizing variegation, as if stars and comets streaked across its leaves in a cosmic spectacle. Each leaf showcases its own unique arrangement of colors and patterns, from subtle speckles to whole moon-like sections. Beyond the hypnotizing variegation, ‘Thai Constellation’ dazzles with its iconic Monstera perforations and dramatically segmented form. This showstopper variety makes an astronomical statement in any plant collection or decor. As a climbing, vining plant, ‘Thai Constellation’ can be guided to great heights, allowing its cosmic-painted leaves to spread in a celestial display. For the passionate collector ready to provide this diva with ideal care, the celestial ‘Thai Constellation’ Monstera promises an out-of-this-world addition.
6. Monstera adansonii ‘Variegata’
With its trailing vines and uniquely painted leaves, Monstera adansonii ‘Variegata’ brings artful beauty to any space. This exceptionally rare varietal of the Monstera family dazzles with mesmerizing variegation splashed across each leaf in hues of ivory, lime green and sage. No two leaves ever look the same, with patterns ranging from subtle creamy brushstrokes to high-contrast lightning bolts. As the vines traverse across supportive surfaces, the foliage reaches toward the light, displaying the ‘Variegata’s ever-changing artwork. Beyond the hypnotic variegation, the iconic oval leaves with natural holes add signature Monstera drama. For the passionate rare plant collector, Monstera ‘Variegata’ promises a showstopping vine that climbs through the years, each new leaf unveiling a priceless living painting.
7. Monstera adansonii ‘Albo-Variegata’
Monstera adansonii ‘Albo-Variegata’ captivates with its exquisitely painted leaves in hues of ivory, green and cream. This exceptionally rare cultivar showcases unique variegation on every leaf, with patterns ranging from subtle spotting to high-contrast color zones. As the trailing vines grow, each new leaf unveils its own one-of-a-kind artwork. Beyond the mesmerizing foliage, the Monstera adansonii ‘Albo-Variegata’ charms with its signature heart-shaped leaves and natural oval holes. For the passionate collector, this varietal promises a showstopping vine perfect for counters and shelves, where its painted leaves can be admired up close like living art.
8. Monstera adansonii ‘Aurea’
Monstera adansonii ‘Aurea’ brings vibrant golden color to the beloved Swiss cheese vine. Warm hues of lemon, lime and butterscotch paint each oval leaf in shimmering tones. As a rare mutation, no two leaves exhibit the exact same shade or variegation pattern. When given bright light, the foliage glows as if lit from within. For the collector seeking a vibrant accent plant, Monstera ‘Aurea’ trails gracefully while adding a dynamic pop of color. Its rare and special give this golden vine incredible decorative impact.
9. Monstera adansonii ‘Epipremnoides’
The Monstera adansonii ‘Epipremnoides’ is a really one-of-a-kind type of the well-known Monstera genus. Its illustrious leaves not only show the near-signature shape of many other members of the species, but they are dramatically larger and better cut as well. This allows this particular variety to stand out among the rest, making it super famous among collectors and enthusiasts alike. Though hard to find, those who look really hard may get this rare but beautiful plant that’s unbeatable.
10. Monstera adansonii ‘Friedrichsthalii’
Monstera adansonii ‘Friedrichsthalii’ is definitely a head-turner! Part of a rare variety of vines, this cultivar has leaves that are bigger and better cut than its species counterpart. It’s no wonder why the Monstera adansonii ‘Friedrichsthalii’ is highly sought after by collectors – the subtle yet striking features it offers are hard to resist. Its climbing nature adds a fun twist to the mix and guarantees that with careful care and attention, this classic plant will provide beauty for many years to come.
11. Monstera obliqua
Monstera obliqua is kinda an everlasting vine from the Araceae family. It’s native to Central and South America’s lush jungles. This species is known for its unique bigger leaves, which are longer than the usual Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) and have slanted cuts on the sides. The slanted cuts on the leaves make ’em look pretty cool, making the plant pop in any collection.
Collectors love the Monstera obliqua, which is considered a rare variety. Its leaves are usually light green with white spots like Swiss cheese. The plant can grow up to six feet high, making it great for indoor gardens. The plant can live for many years with good care and attention, giving its owner a cool and intriguing addition to their collection.
Due to the plant’s scarcity and distinctive appearance, collectors are willing to pay a premium for this species. While not as usual as the Swiss cheese plant, Monstera obliqua can be spotted in fancy nurseries and online plant stores. The Monstera obliqua is a must-have for any plant lover, whether grown for its special beauty or collected as a rare example.
12. Monstera siltepecana
A distinctive and highly sought-after plant species is monstera siltepecana. This species has smaller leaves with shallower cuts in contrast to the common Swiss cheese plant, which is known for its large leaves with deeply cut lobes. Monstera siltepecana is an attractive addition to any plant collection because it has the distinctive shape of a Swiss cheese plant despite its smaller size.
The ability of this species to climb up walls, trellises, and other structures is one of its distinguishing characteristics. Since it can add a splash of green to any wall or room, it makes a great choice for those looking for a plant that can be grown vertically.
Monstera siltepecana is a sought-after species for collectors and plant lovers due to its rarity as well. For those who are fortunate enough to find it, it is a rare find that only serves to enhance its appeal.
Monstera siltepecana is a great option if you’re a collector, a plant enthusiast, or just looking for a distinctive plant for your home. It is certain to offer an unusual touch to any collection or house with its distinctive leaves and climbing vine.
13. Monstera standleyana
Monstera standleyana is a rare and unusual vine plant with leaves that resemble the Swiss cheese plant but are smaller and have shallower cuts on the lobes. Because of its rarity and beauty, this plant is highly prized among collectors and horticulturists. Monstera standleyana leaves are smaller than those of the common Swiss cheese plant, but they retain the distinctive shape that makes them identifiable.
They are also less deeply cut, giving them a softer appearance. Because this is a climbing vine, it will grow vertically up a support, making it an excellent choice for adding a lush green touch to any vertical space. Monstera standleyana is a highly sought after plant for those who are interested in plants and nature because of its striking appearance and rarity.
14. Monstera aurea
Monstera aurea, a unique variegated variation of the Monstera deliciosa, is characterized by striking patches of white or yellow on its leaves, a result of a rare genetic mutation. The rarity of this plant is accentuated by the fact that the variegation gene is recessive. For an offspring to inherit and display this trait, both its parent plants must possess the gene. Given the odds of two Monstera deliciosa plants each carrying this elusive gene, it’s no surprise that the Monstera aurea is like a rare treasure in the plant world and can cost a pretty penny.
Beyond its scarcity, the Monstera aurea is also known for its demanding care requirements. To thrive, it needs a perfect combination of bright, indirect sunlight coupled with high humidity. And watch out—pest and diseases are out to get it! All these factors combined make the Monstera aurea not just a rare beauty, but also a challenge for even the most seasoned plant lovers.
15. Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana Variegata’
The climbing vine Monstera deliciosa “Borsigiana Variegata” has unusual, highly sought-after leaves that are larger and more deeply cut than those of the common Monstera deliciosa. This cultivar is known for its unique leaf size and form, and the leaves are distinguished by their yellow and green variegation.
Collectors respect this unusual type greatly for its beauty and uniqueness, and it is regarded as a rare treasure. This cultivar is certain to stand out in any collection thanks to its gorgeous and unique features. Therefore, the Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana Variegata’ is absolutely something to think about if you want to add a little bit of peculiarity and uniqueness to your landscape.
16. Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’
Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’ is a rare cultivar that has become popular among collectors due to its distinct characteristics. This climbing vine is distinguished by its larger, deeply cut leaves, which distinguishes it from the more common Monstera deliciosa. This cultivar’s leaves have a distinct shape and size, as well as creamy white and green variegation, which adds to their allure.
Because of its distinctive appearance, this rare variety is highly sought after, and collectors will go to great lengths to obtain it. Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’ is a rare and stunning plant with large leaves and unique variegation that will undoubtedly be the focal point of any collection.
So, there you have it with Famiplants– a comprehensive guide to 15 of the rare Monstera varieties out there. We hope that this has given you a better understanding of what sets these plants apart and why they are so sought-after by collectors. Whether you’re looking to add one of these beauties to your own collection or simply enjoy admiring them from afar, we hope this article has been helpful. Happy plant hunting!
