Plants Similar To Monstera: Your Guide to Monstera-Like Houseplants
If you love the dramatic, split leaves and tropical vibe of Monstera but want alternatives — smaller plants, faster growers, or different textures — you’re in the right place. I’ve kept monsteras and their lookalikes for years, and I’ll share what works, what doesn’t, and which plants can scratch that same itch in your living room or patio.
Why look for Monstera-like plants?
Monstera deliciosa is a showstopper: big, glossy leaves with holes (fenestrations) that feel exotic. But not everyone can commit to its size, cost, or slow path to those iconic splits. There are plants that mimic Monstera’s aesthetic — from mini versions that climb to bold-leaved non-fenestrated cousins that deliver similar drama.
“The trick to getting Monstera-like leaves is mimicking the plant’s natural climb — bright, indirect light and a support to climb often encourages fenestrations.” — a gardener’s tip from my own window sill
Top plants that look like Monstera
Here are the go-to picks I recommend when you want Monstera vibes without exactly buying a Monstera.
- Rhaphidophora tetrasperma (Mini Monstera) — Often called “mini Monstera,” this plant grows fast, produces split leaves quickly, and climbs eagerly. It’s ideal for smaller spaces and develops fenestrations earlier than a full-size Monstera deliciosa.
- Monstera adansonii (Adanson’s Monstera) — A true Monstera species, but with thinner, vine-like growth and lots of holes. It’s great in hanging baskets or trained on a moss pole.
- Monstera obliqua — Rare and delicate, it has extreme fenestrations and a lace-like appearance. Not for beginners — it needs high humidity and careful care.
- Epipremnum pinnatum — When mature and climbing, this plant develops slits and lobes similar to Monstera. Varieties like ‘Cebu Blue’ are especially attractive.
- Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum (formerly Philodendron selloum) — Large, deeply lobed leaves give a similar jungle feel without true holes. It’s hearty and makes a bold statement indoors.
- Scindapsus pictus and Scindapsus aureus (Satin Pothos) — Not fenestrated, but their vining habit and attractive leaf patterns can satisfy the decorative need for texture and movement.
- Anthurium clarinervium and Anthurium crystallinum — Velvety, heart-shaped leaves with dramatic venation; they don’t split but deliver luxurious foliage that pairs beautifully with a Monstera collection.
How these plants compare to Monstera
Here’s what I look at when comparing Monstera to its lookalikes: size, growth speed, fenestration potential, and care level.
- Size: Rhaphidophora tetrasperma stays more compact than Monstera deliciosa.
- Speed: Rhaphidophora and Epipremnum pinnatum often produce mature-looking leaves faster.
- Fenestration: Some plants like Monstera adansonii and Epipremnum pinnatum fenestrate when climbing; others like Anthurium never do.
- Care: Monstera cousins vary — Monstera obliqua and Anthuriums like high humidity; Rhaphidophora is forgiving.
Care tips to encourage Monstera-like leaves
From my experience, the environment shapes the leaf form more than anything else. If you want dramatic splits or holes, provide conditions that mimic a rainforest understory.
- Light — Bright, indirect light is king. Avoid harsh midday sun that scorches, but too little light means fewer fenestrations.
- Support — Use moss poles, stakes, or trellises. Most of these plants fenestrate when they climb and attach to surfaces.
- Humidity — Higher humidity (50–70%) encourages healthier, larger leaves. I use a pebble tray or a small humidifier near my plants.
- Soil and drainage — A chunky, well-draining mix keeps roots happy. I add orchid bark and perlite to my potting mix for faster-draining soil.
- Watering — Water thoroughly, then let the top inch of soil dry. Overwatering causes root rot and dull foliage.
- Fertilizer — Monthly balanced feeding in the growing season gives the energy to produce big leaves.
Propagation and placement tips
Most of these plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. I’ve rooted dozens in water and then transplanted them into soil. For faster fenestration, give cuttings a pole to climb as soon as roots form.
- Take a cutting below a node and include at least one aerial root if possible.
- Root in water or moist peat, then plant in a loose mix.
- Place near a bright east or north-facing window or a filtered south-facing location.
Which one should you pick?
If you want a true Monstera look without the size, go for Rhaphidophora tetrasperma or Monstera adansonii. If you want bold leaves but not splits, try Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum or an Anthurium. For beginners on a budget, Scindapsus or Epipremnum make great, forgiving alternatives that still give a tropical feel.
Personally, I keep a mix: a Monstera deliciosa for the star factor, a Rhaphidophora for faster drama, and an Anthurium for texture. Together they create a layered, jungle look that makes my living room feel alive.
Final thoughts
Plants similar to Monstera offer options for every space and skill level. Whether you want a mini Monstera, a velvety-leaved showpiece, or a forgiving vining plant, there’s a beautiful alternative waiting to transform your home. Start with one that fits your light and humidity, give it a climbing surface, and enjoy watching those dramatic leaves unfold.
