Monstera Deliciosa Vs Borsigiana: Which One Is Right for Your Home?
I’ve been a houseplant addict for years, and few plants have captured my heart like Monsteras. But almost every grower I meet asks the same question: what’s the actual difference between Monstera deliciosa and Monstera deliciosa ‘Borsigiana’? I keep both in my living room, so here’s the clear, practical comparison from someone who waters, repots, and trains these giants every season.
Understanding the Names and the Confusion
First, let’s clear up the naming mess. “Monstera deliciosa” is the species. “Borsigiana” is commonly sold as a variety or cultivar of deliciosa. Some botanists argue that Borsigiana isn’t a distinct species—it’s a cultivar or smaller form of deliciosa. Nurseries and plant shops, however, treat them as different because their looks and growth habits often feel distinct in a home setting.
Short take
In practice, you can think of Borsigiana as the smaller, faster-growing, more compact cousin of the classic Monstera deliciosa. But they’re essentially the same species and share most care needs.
Visual Differences That Matter
When you’re standing in a plant shop, the easiest way to tell them apart is by looking at the leaves, petioles, and overall growth habit.
- Leaf size and thickness: True Monstera deliciosa develops very large, thick, leathery leaves that can reach over 2 feet across in mature specimens. Borsigiana leaves tend to be smaller and a bit thinner.
- Fenestration (holes and splits): Deliciosa often produces deep splits and large holes as it matures. Borsigiana will develop fenestrations earlier in life but they usually stay smaller and less dramatic.
- Petioles and stem: Borsigiana typically has longer petioles and a more vine-like, lanky appearance. Deliciosa’s petioles are sturdier and the plant can look more robust and tree-like over time.
- Growth habit: Borsigiana often climbs faster and stays more compact — great for apartments. Deliciosa wants space and can become a large, self-supporting plant if given a big moss pole or allowed to climb a tree trunk.
Care: What’s the Same and What’s Different
If you’re wondering whether one is more demanding than the other, you’ll be happy to hear: they have nearly identical care needs. Still, small differences in habit mean slightly different approaches depending on your space.
Light
- Both prefer bright, indirect light. A spot near an east or north-facing window is ideal.
- Deliciosa can handle a touch more filtered sun because of thicker leaves. Borsigiana will scorch faster if left in direct afternoon sun.
Water and Humidity
- Both like consistent moisture but not soggy soil. Water when the top inch or two of soil dries.
- Both appreciate higher humidity. I mist mine occasionally and keep a humidifier nearby in winter.
Soil, Potting, and Feeding
- Use a chunky, well-draining potting mix with aeration: potting soil mixed with orchid bark, perlite, and a little charcoal works great.
- Repot every 1–2 years for younger plants. Deliciosa may need larger pots sooner if it’s growing into a big specimen.
- Feed both during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks.
Propagation, Training, and Growth Management
Both propagate easily from stem cuttings. My favorite method is to snip a node with one leaf, let the cut heal for a day, then root in water or a moist mix. Both will throw out aerial roots that love a moss pole.
- To keep Borsigiana tidy in small spaces, I train it to climb a 4–5 foot pole. It fills the pole quickly and looks lush without sprawling.
- Deliciosa, when left untrained, can become a dramatic floor-to-ceiling statement—ideal if you have the vertical space.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Problems are usually the same: yellowing leaves from overwatering, brown edges from low humidity or fluoride in water, and pest issues like spider mites and mealybugs.
“I once almost killed a Borsigiana by keeping it in a dim bathroom. Once I moved it next to a bright window and gave it a moss pole, it exploded with new leaves within a month.”
- If leaves aren’t fenestrating, your plant may be too young, indoors with low light, or root-bound.
- Brown crunchy edges mean either underwatering or low humidity. Try consistent watering and move a tray of pebbles with water beneath the pot to raise local humidity.
- For pests, isolate the plant and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil—both work well for these Monsteras.
Which One Should You Buy?
Here’s my practical recommendation based on real-life experience.
- If you live in a small apartment, want a fast filler that looks good without growing enormous, or want an “easier-to-place” indoor vine, choose Borsigiana.
- If you have a large room, high ceilings, or want a statement plant that will eventually sport massive, dramatic leaves, choose Monstera deliciosa.
- If you’re unsure, buy a Borsigiana first—if it thrives and you get bit by the Monstera bug (and you will), you can always add a deliciosa later.
Final Thoughts from a Gardener
I love them both. Borsigiana is the practical, sociable housemate that looks great on shelves and in medium pots. Deliciosa is the grandparent that slowly becomes the centerpiece of a room. Both are forgiving, showy, and satisfyingly architectural. Grow what fits your space and your patience level, and you’ll be rewarded with foliage that makes you smile every time you walk in the door.
Quick Checklist for Buyers
- Ask the seller whether the plant is labeled as ‘Borsigiana’ or ‘deliciosa’.
- Look for leaf thickness, petiole length, and early fenestrations.
- Consider your ceiling height, available vertical space, and how fast you want growth.
- Plan for a moss pole or trellis—you’ll want one sooner rather than later.
Happy planting! If you want, tell me about your space and I’ll help you choose which Monstera will thrive there.
