Monstera Borsigiana

This popular monstera variety differs from its cousin mainly in stem structure and the size of its leaf fenestrations. If you have been searching for a Monstera Borsigiana, you might have noticed that it looks almost identical to the standard Monstera deliciosa. The confusion is common, and many plant shops label them incorrectly.

Understanding the difference is key to knowing what you are actually bringing home. This guide will help you identify, care for, and propagate this beautiful climbing plant with confidence.

The Monstera Borsigiana is often treated as a separate species, though botanists sometimes classify it as a subspecies of Monstera deliciosa. For the average plant lover, the distinction comes down to growth habit and leaf details. It is a fast-growing vine that loves to climb, and it brings a jungle vibe to any room.

You will find that this plant is slightly more compact than its larger cousin. This makes it a fantastic choice for smaller spaces or for plant parents who want the iconic split leaves without the plant taking over the entire living room. Let’s break down exactly what makes this plant special.

Key Differences From Monstera Deliciosa

To the untrained eye, these two plants look like twins. However, once you know what to look for, telling them apart becomes easy. Here are the main physical traits to check.

Stem Attachment: The Borsigiana has a smooth connection where the leaf meets the stem. The deliciosa has a ruffled, wrinkly collar right at the node.
Growth Rate: The Borsigiana tends to grow faster and is generally more vining in nature.
Leaf Size: While mature leaves can be large, they rarely reach the massive, shield-like size of the deliciosa.
Fenestrations: The holes and splits are plentiful, but they are often slightly smaller and more numerous relative to the leaf size.

When you look at the base of the petiole, check for that ruffled edge. If it is completely smooth, you are likely holding a Borsigiana. This is the most reliable way to tell them apart.

Why The Confusion Happens

Most big-box stores sell plants labeled simply as “Monstera.” They rarely specify the subspecies. Because the care is identical, many sellers do not bother to differentiate. You might also see it labeled as Monstera deliciosa var. borsigiana.

Genetically, the difference is minimal. But for collectors, the distinction matters. The Borsigiana is often preferred for its slightly smaller footprint and vigorous climbing habit. It is also the variety most commonly sold as the “Thai Constellation” or “Albo” variegated forms, although those are specific cultivars.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Getting the environment right is not difficult. This plant is forgiving, but it thrives when you mimic its natural tropical habitat. You want to provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture without making the roots soggy.

Think of it as a jungle floor plant. It gets dappled sunlight through the canopy, not direct scorching rays. Recreating this light condition is the single most important factor for healthy growth.

Light Requirements

Place your Monstera Borsigiana in a spot that receives bright, filtered light. A few feet away from a south or west-facing window is perfect. An east-facing window works well too.

Too Much Light: Direct afternoon sun will scorch the leaves, causing brown, crispy patches.
Too Little Light: The plant will become leggy, and new leaves will lack fenestrations (the splits).
Artificial Light: Grow lights work great if you do not have natural light available.

If your plant is not producing holes in new leaves, the most common reason is insufficient light. Move it closer to a window, but keep it out of the direct sun beam.

Watering Schedule

Watering is where most plant parents make mistakes. Overwatering leads to root rot, which is the number one killer of monsteras. You should let the top few inches of soil dry out completely before watering again.

Stick your finger into the soil. If it feels dry up to your second knuckle, it is time to water. When you do water, water thoroughly until it drains out of the bottom of the pot. Never let the plant sit in standing water.

During the winter months, the plant goes into a slower growth phase. You will need to water much less frequently. Always check the soil moisture first.

Soil And Potting Mix

A chunky, well-aerated mix is essential for this plant. The roots need oxygen, and they hate staying wet. A standard potting mix is often too dense and retains too much water.

You can easily make your own mix at home. The goal is to create air pockets and ensure excellent drainage.

Start with 2 parts standard potting soil.
Add 1 part perlite for drainage.
Mix in 1 part orchid bark or coco chips for aeration.
Add a handful of horticultural charcoal to keep the mix fresh.

This mix will allow water to flow through quickly while still holding enough moisture for the roots. It also provides the chunky texture that the aerial roots love to grip onto.

Potting And Repotting

You should repot your Monstera Borsigiana every 1-2 years, or when you see roots coming out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that is only 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

When you repot, gently loosen the root ball and place it in the new pot at the same depth. Fill around it with your fresh mix and water it well. The best time to repot is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Fertilizing Needs

Feeding your plant helps it grow large leaves with dramatic fenestrations. During the growing season (spring and summer), you should fertilize once a month. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.

In the fall and winter, stop fertilizing entirely. The plant does not need the extra nutrients when it is resting. Over-fertilizing can cause salt build-up in the soil, which can burn the roots.

Look for a fertilizer with a ratio like 20-20-20. This provides equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which supports overall health.

Climbing Support And Training

This plant is a climber by nature. In the wild, it attaches itself to trees using its aerial roots. To get large leaves, you need to provide a support structure like a moss pole or a trellis.

When the plant climbs, it signals to the plant that it is safe to grow bigger. The leaves will get larger, and the fenestrations will become more pronounced.

How To Attach The Plant

Insert a moss pole into the center of the pot, pushing it down to the bottom.
Gently tie the main stem of the plant to the pole using soft plant ties or twine.
Guide the aerial roots towards the moss pole.
Keep the moss pole slightly damp to encourage the roots to dig in.

You do not need to tie the leaves, only the stem. The leaves will naturally orient themselves towards the light. As the plant grows, extend the pole or add a new one on top.

Propagation Methods

Propagating your Monstera Borsigiana is a rewarding process. It is relatively easy and allows you to share plants with friends. The best method is stem cutting propagation in water.

You want to take a cutting that includes a node, which is the bumpy brown area on the stem where the aerial root grows. Without a node, the cutting will not root.

Step-By-Step Water Propagation

Using clean, sharp scissors, cut below a node.
Ensure your cutting has at least one leaf and one node.
Place the cutting in a jar of water, submerging the node.
Put the jar in a spot with bright, indirect light.
Change the water every 3-4 days to prevent bacteria.
Wait for roots to grow to at least 2-3 inches long.

Once the roots are established, you can transfer the cutting to soil. Keep the soil consistently moist for the first few weeks to help the roots acclimate.

Common Pests And Problems

While generally hardy, this plant can face a few issues. The most common pests are spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. You should inspect your plant regularly, especially the undersides of the leaves.

If you spot pests, isolate the plant immediately. Wipe the leaves down with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Repeat the treatment every few days until the pests are gone.

Yellow Leaves

Yellowing leaves are usually a sign of overwatering. Check the roots for rot. If the roots are mushy and black, you will need to trim the damaged parts and repot in fresh, dry soil.

Brown, Crispy Edges

This is often a sign of low humidity or underwatering. While they do not need high humidity, they appreciate some. You can mist the leaves or use a pebble tray with water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this plant to help you troubleshoot any issues.

Why Is My Monstera Borsigiana Not Splitting?

This is almost always a light issue. If the plant is not getting enough bright, indirect light, it will not produce the energy needed to create fenestrations. Move it to a brighter location.

Is Monstera Borsigiana The Same As Deliciosa?

No, but they are closely related. The Borsigiana is often considered a variety or subspecies. The main differences are the smooth stem attachment and slightly smaller leaf size compared to the deliciosa.

Can I Grow This Plant In Low Light?

It will survive in low light, but it will not thrive. Growth will be slow, and the leaves will be smaller and without splits. For the best appearance, provide bright, filtered light.

How Fast Does It Grow?

In the right conditions, it is a fast grower. During the growing season, you can expect a new leaf every few weeks. Providing a moss pole can speed up growth significantly.

Is This Plant Toxic To Pets?

Yes, like all monsteras, it contains calcium oxalate crystals. These are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious pets.

Final Care Summary

Caring for this plant is straightforward once you understand its basic needs. It is a rewarding plant that can live for decades with the right attention. Here is a quick recap of what you need to do.

Provide bright, indirect light.
Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry.
Use a chunky, well-draining soil mix.
Fertilize monthly during spring and summer.
Provide a moss pole for climbing.
Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust.

With these simple steps, your Monstera Borsigiana will reward you with lush, beautiful foliage. It is a stunning addition to any plant collection and a joy to watch grow.

Remember to be patient. New leaves take time to unfurl, and it can take a few months for a young plant to mature enough to produce those iconic holes. Enjoy the process and watch your plant thrive.

If you notice the leaves drooping, it might need a drink. If the stems are getting leggy, it needs more light. Pay attention to the signals the plant gives you, and you will have a happy, healthy monstera for years to come.

Do not be afraid to prune your plant if it gets too tall. You can cut it back and propagate the cuttings. This keeps the plant bushy and prevents it from becoming a tangled mess.

The Monstera Borsigiana is a wonderful plant that offers the classic monstera look without taking up quite as much space as the deliciosa. It is perfect for apartments and homes where space is at a premium. Its vigorous growth and beautiful leaves make it a favorite among enthusiasts.

Give it the care it needs, and it will become the centerpiece of your indoor garden. The satisfaction of seeing a new leaf with deep, elegant splits is unmatched. This plant is a true gem for any plant lover.