Monstera Deliciosa vs Borsigiana (Difference and Similarities)

This Monstera Deliciosa vs Borsigiana guide will teach you about the differences and similarities between the two plants!

Monstera Deliciosa and Borsigiana are stunning houseplants with notable differences and striking similarities. They have a similar appearance, and it is often difficult to distinguish between Monstera Deliciosa vs Borsigiana. Because of their striking resemblance, the names of both plants are frequently used interchangeably.

One of the most noticeable differences between the two plants is that the leaves of Monstera Deliciosa are substantially larger than those of Borsigiana.

The matured leaves generally reveal the plant’s identity as well. The Borsigiana does not have a furrow at the geniculum, but the real Deliciosa does. So, before you buy the plants, be sure to inspect the leaves!

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Difference Between the Monstera Deliciosa Vs Borsigiana

While both plants are quite similar in many aspects, it is essential to know the differences so you can care for each plant accordingly. This section will go over the several differences between the Monstera Deliciosa vs Borsigiana.

Geniculum

The most distinguishable feature of the Monstera Deliciosa is the appearance of its geniculum. The geniculum of the Deliciosa looks like ruffles due to wrinkles and furrows. The ruffles have a curvy or wavy texture, which gives Deliciosa more flexibility and ease of movement. Due to these wrinkles, the Monstera Deliciosa is also called “Wrinkle Deliciosa.”

On the other hand, the Borsigiana has a more conventional geniculum similar to other plants. The base of the leaf has a flat and plain appearance and is smooth to touch. However, in the early growth stages, both plants have a standard geniculum. The difference only becomes visible as the plants reach maturity.

Growth Habit

Although both plants are excellent climbers, Monstera Deliciosa grows considerably slower than Borsigiana. Monstera Deliciosa develops in a lateral and widespread manner. This suggests that it grows and expands while staying in its spot. However, because Monstera Deliciosa is a slow climber, you will usually see it sprawling over the ground in its early growth stages. But, as it ages, it acquires its natural climbing ability and ultimately becomes a vine.

In contrast, Borsigiana grows in a vining pattern. It has a slender and longer stem that grows along with any support, whether the ground or a stalk.

Monstera Deliciosa Has Larger Leaves

Another noticeable difference between the two plants is the overall size of the leaves. Monstera means “monstrous,” and the Monstera Deliciosa truly lives up to its name.

When cultivated outdoors in the right conditions, Monstera Deliciosa leaves can extend up to 18 feet in length. But don’t worry, as they only grow to around 5 feet in length and width indoors. The heart-shaped leaves have a leathery feel to them.

In comparison, the Monstera Borsigiana has smaller leaves. Its leaves can only grow to a shorter length of 2 feet, which appears tiny next to the larger Deliciosa leaves. This is also the standard leaf size for most plants.

Furthermore, the proliferation of the plants differs depending on the circumstances. Moisture, lighting, and the growth environment can influence how big or small a leaf gets.

The easiest method to determine Monstera type is to compare the size of two plants cultivated simultaneously under the same conditions.

Growth Rate

As the Borsigiana is smaller, it grows at a much faster rate. When the plants are provided equal care, the Borsigiana will develop far quicker than the Monstera Deliciosa. If you notice the Monstera in your house expanding and climbing at a quick rate, it is with no doubt a Borsigiana.

The Deliciosa grows around 2 feet every year, whereas the Borsigiana grows the same height in a shorter time. In its natural habitat, however, the Deliciosa has the potential to grow up to an incredible 30 feet in size. But don’t worry, as it won’t grow into that monstrous size within the confines of your home.

Taxonomy

Taxonomy is a discipline of science concerned with classifying, identifying, and labeling organisms, in this case, plants. The Monstera Borsigiana and Deliciosa are often considered as the same plant. In actuality, the taxonomy of the plants varies slightly.

Monstera Borsigiana and Deliciosa are taxonomically related. This signifies although they share a taxon, both plants are of distinct types. We’ve included a list below to help you understand the taxonomic hierarchy of Monstera Deliciosa vs Borsigiana.

• Kingdom – Plantae
• Subkingdom – Viridiplantae
• Infrakingdom – Streptophyta
• Super Division – Embryophyta
• Division – Tracheophyta
• Subdivision – Spermatophytina
• Class – Magnoliopsida
• Superorder – Lilianae (monocotyledons)
• Order – Alismatales
• Family – Araceae (Arum)
• Genus – Monstera Adans
• Species – Monstera Deliciosa Liebm, synonym Monstera Borsigiana Engl

Stem Structure

Another way to distinguish Borsigiana from Deliciosa is by observing the stem structure. Nodes are the circular sections or patches that appear in the middle of a plant’s stem. It is also where the branches, twigs, leaves, and buds originate. In a Monstera plant, the node is the tip that connects the petiole to the primary stem. The distance between the nodes of both plants differs to a great extent.

Unlike the Deliciosa, the Monstera Borsigiana has more space between nodes. As a result, Monstera Borsigiana grows and vines faster than Deliciosa. So, if you notice your indoor Monstera plant looking a little disorderly, with leaves sprouting close together, it’s likely that your plant is a Borsigiana. This is chaotic in contrast to the Monstera Deliciosa, which has petioles that are only slightly apart from one another.

Price

Lastly, both plants have different prices due to their various characteristics. In general, the Monstera Deliciosa costs a lot more due to its larger size and popularity. Depending on where you buy it, the price ranges from anywhere between $20 and $100. You might be able to get it for cheaper if you buy it when it’s still in its early growth stages.

The Borsigiana also has different price ranges but is generally cheaper in comparison. The price mainly depends on the type or variegation of the Borsigiana that you buy.

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Similarities of the Monstera Deliciosa and Borsigiana

While several differences between the two plants, they also share some similarities. Let us have a look at them!

Perforated Leaf Structure

The perforated leaves are a distinguishing feature of both Monstera Deliciosa and Borsigiana. They are well-known for their signature perforated dark green leaves, which look like they’ve been neatly pruned with shears. Due to these holes, they’ve earned the title “Swiss Cheese Plant.”

The appearance, size, and amount of these incisions between leaves might vary, but they are generally oblong or oval-looking. They exist to boost the Monstera plant’s water and nutrient intake because its roots have difficulty absorbing water. The holes are also adaptive to the high wind speeds and rainfall. Rain can pour straight into the soil via the perforations, while wind can pass through the plant without harming it.

Leaf Shape

Despite the differences in the leaf size, the Deliciosa and Borsigiana have the same leaf shapes. These Monstera have cordate leaves that are characteristic of the genus of the blooming plants in the Araceae family. The leaves have a lovely heart shape, with a carved base that continues into a wide and plain surface that narrows into the tip.

Even though the holes in the middle extend to the leaf margins, the heart shape is still readily distinguishable.

Root System

Aside from having matching leaf characteristics, they both produce many aerial roots or adventitious roots, whatever you prefer to call them.

Aerial roots grow below the stem and above the main roots. They rise above the ground and are responsible for various tasks, including water uptake, nutrient absorption, airflow, and growth. They do, however, struggle with water absorption, which is why the leaves of the plants are perforated to compensate.

Typically, when a Monstera is planted in the soil, it gradually grows up, exposing the aerial roots. They can easily attach to supporting structures, allowing the plant to exhibit its climbing nature.

Growth Requirements

The best part about these Monsteras is that they don’t need special care for proper growth and development. This makes them an excellent house plant choice for beginners and busy people. Both plants, however, have similar growth requirements. Read on below to learn more!

Soil

Whether rooted in the ground or pots, both Monstera plants require a permeable and peaty soil condition. The soil should not drain too quickly or too slowly. Additionally, they prefer soil that is rich in organic compounds.

Container

Pick a suitable pot for your Monstera plants based on the diameter of the root ball. To give the plant enough room, use a pot 2 to 4 inches broader than the ball of roots. To promote optimal growth, repot the Monstera every two years. Move it to a slightly larger pot after its roots spread around the edges and beyond the bottom of the container to avoid root constriction. However, to prevent waterlogging, do not use large pots without need.

Light

Monstera plants prefer indirect lighting over direct sunlight. They also thrive well in artificial lighting, making them a perfect bedside plant. Although it can withstand staying 4 to 6 hours in direct sunlight, excessive sunlight exposure can burn the leaves and end up damaging them. So if you decide to place your plant outside, make sure it’s in a shaded area.

Temperature

Since these plants are native to tropical forests, they prefer moderate temperatures which are not too hot or too cold. Avoid leaving them out in temperatures soaring above 80ºF since this might harm the plant. Similarly, temperatures below 45ºF are equally harmful to the plant and may cause icing. In cold weather, make sure to provide the plant with an artificial heat source.

Watering

Another great thing about Monstera plants is that they always indicate their water requirements through leaf color. If it’s underwatered, the leaves will turn brown, and the leaves will turn yellow when it’s overwatered. In general, only water the plant to a 2 to a 3-inch depth below the surface.

Fertilizer

Monstera Deliciosa and Borsigiana do not require excessive fertilization. Only apply a dry, nitrogen-rich fertilizer mix during the active growth stages every 8 weeks over the year.

Progressively increase the quantity of fertilizer used while decreasing the application frequency as the plant grows.

Key Takeaway

Monstera Deliciosa and Borsigiana may be similar in some aspects, but they are not the same plant.

Some key differences of the Monstera Deliciosa vs Borsigiana include their leaf size, geniculum features, growth habits, rates, and overall stem structure.

Despite the differences, the plants belong to the same family of green flowering plants and therefore have similar care requirements.

The best part about these plants is that they don’t need extreme care and thrive in just about any environment. If you provide them with the proper lighting, amount of water, fertilizer, and pot size, your plant will grow to be healthy and lovely.

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FAQ

Here are answers to some common questions related to Monstera Deliciosa and Borsigiana!

Is Monstera Borsigiana Different From Deliciosa?

The Monstera Borsigiana is a subspecies of the highly popular Monstera Deliciosa. It is classified as a part of the Araceae family and the genus Monstera. The main distinction among the two is the Borsigiana’s smaller plant size and quicker growth rate. Overall, Monstera Borsigiana is smaller and more manageable than Monstera Deliciosa.

Is Monstera a Borsigiana?

It is the other way around. The Borsigiana is a plant belonging to the Araceae family and is classified as the genus Monstera. So, in truth, the Borsigiana is a Monstera. It is a smaller variant of the famous Monstera Deliciosa plant.

How Do I Root Monstera Borsigiana?

The simplest, most widely used method is the air layering method, although it’s the slowest way to do it. Cut through the stem underneath the node that already has an aerial root with a sharp knife. Then wrap some sphagnum moss around the cut, root, and node. Cover it with plastic and securely fasten it, but leave some breathing space so you can water it and check for new roots. Do this every 3 days for around 6 weeks, and you’ll have young roots growing, which you can transplant and repot.

Do Monstera Borsigiana Get Holes?

As the Monstera Borsigiana matures and grows, its heart-shaped dark green leaves become perforated; in other words, they develop holes. These holes are a signature feature of the Borsigiana plant. It is also why the plant is also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant.

Is Monstera Deliciosa Toxic?

The ASPCA lists all 48 plants in the genus Monstera as poisonous. The reason is that all of its components contain highly toxic calcium oxalate crystals. While the plant will not irritate your hands when touched, it may irritate sting your mouth, lips, or tongue if you touch them after handling the plant. If you have small children or pets in the house, it’s better to place the plant in an area out of reach.

Is Monstera a Good Indoor Plant?

Monsteras are a popular choice for houseplants. That’s because they’re easy to handle and can grow almost everywhere. They will flourish even if you forget to water them now and then. These plants can survive low light but proliferate more drastically in a brighter place in your house with lots of sunlight. These are great as leaves will mostly indicate what the plant needs or is lacking. This will allow you to care for your plant without the need of keeping track especially if you are a beginner.

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Final Thoughts

When it comes to similarities between the Monstera Deliciosa vs Borsigiana, many people end up considering these two as the same plant and use their names interchangeably. But the truth is that the two plants are very different from each other. These can be identified through plant structure as outlined previously.

No matter which plant you choose to place in your home, it will significantly accentuate your interior. These are a popular choice for indoor plants due to their lush green look and effortless care requirements. You can decide which plant’s features you prefer and get the plant that suits your taste. We hope that this article will help you make that decision!