1. Monstera Dubia
Leaf Size: The leaves are generally smaller, especially when young.
Dark green leaves lay flat against the surface it climbs on, showing lighter green veining. As the plant matures, leaves take on a shingling habit and begin to exhibit fenestrations.
2. Monstera Adansonii
Leaf Size: Smaller than the common Monstera Deliciosa, with more pronounced fenestrations.
Features bright green, oval-shaped leaves with numerous Swiss cheese-like fenestrations. The leaves are generally spread apart on long vines, creating a full and lush appearance.
3. Monstera Siltepecana
Leaf Size: Leaves are elongated and much smaller than those of the Deliciosa.
This variety has elongated leaves that show a silvery-blue tint, especially on the immature leaves. The plant looks almost metallic, leading to its nickname, “Silver Monstera.”
4. Monstera Peru
Leaf Size: Truly mini, this variety’s leaves can be as small as 2-3 inches.
Boasts dark green, glossy leaves that are heavily textured with ridges, giving it a unique, almost reptilian look. They are more elliptical as compared to other Monstera varieties.
5. Monstera Obliqua
Leaf Size: Quite small compared to the popular Monstera Deliciosa, often with more holes than leaf.
Known for its extremely fenestrated leaves, to the point where the leaves may seem more like a lattice than a solid leaf. They are paper-thin and have a delicate, translucent quality.
6. Monstera Spruceana
Leaf Size: Smaller, elongated leaves that also exhibit the shingling habit.
Features elongated leaves that are medium to dark green. The leaves have a leather-like texture and may show slight fenestrations as they mature.
7. Monstera Lechleriana
Leaf Size: Not as large as Monstera Deliciosa, but bigger than some of the other mini versions.
This variety has large, dark green leaves that are slightly elongated. The leaves show a leather-like texture and have a slightly drooping appearance, which adds to their charm.
8. Monstera standleyana
Leaf Size: They are usually around 4 to 6 inches long, although they can grow larger when given optimal care.
These elongated leaves are dark green with streaks of lighter shades and feature a few perforations or fenestrations.
9. Monstera adansonnii ‘Monkey Mask’
Leaf Size: They typically range from 6 to 8 inches in length.
What sets it apart are the multiple fenestrations or holes in the leaves, which give the plant an intricate, eye-catching appearance. Besides its aesthetic appeal, the ‘Monkey Mask’ is also known for its air-purifying qualities.
Quick Care Tips for Monsteras with Small Leaves
- Bright, indirect light helps maintain the vibrant green hue and overall health.
- Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
- Use a humidifier or place a water-filled tray near the plant to maintain humidity.
- Snip off any yellow or brown leaves and prune back any overly long vines to encourage bushier growth.
- Keep an eye out for spider mites and mealybugs.
- Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more room for growth.
- Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust, aiding in photosynthesis.