Alocasia vs Monstera: Understanding the Key Differences Between These Popular Houseplants
If you’re an avid houseplant lover like myself, chances are you’ve come across both alocasia and monstera plants. With their large, dramatic leaves, these two tropical favorites are staples in many green spaces. But have you ever wondered what sets them apart? As someone who has grown both over the years, let me break down the main alocasia vs monstera comparisons.
Growth Habit
One of the most noticeable differences is their growth habit. Alocasias tend to grow upright and compact, with stems clustered together. They form a bushy mound shape. Monsteras, on the other hand, have a more spreading, vine-like growth pattern. Their stems will continue climbing and branching outwards if given a structure for support. From my experience, monsteras definitely take up more floor or wall space!
Leaf Texture and Shape
The leaves are another key distinguishing feature. Alocasia foliage tends to be thicker and waxier feeling than monstera leaves. Their shapes also vary – alocasias have everything from arrow-shaped to rounded leaves. But monsteras are consistently heart-shaped, with their famous eye or split formations developing as they mature. If you see a plant with those iconic cut-out areas, you’re looking at a monstera for sure.
Care Requirements
When it comes to care, alocasias are slightly harder to keep happy in my opinion. They prefer higher humidity levels than monsteras and can sulk if the air is too dry. Monsteras are kind of like the “chill houseplants” – they adapt well to a variety of conditions. Alocasias also demand slightly brighter light. Both appreciate indirect sunlight, but alocasias may burn or fade without enough illumination. So if you live in a low-light spot, a monstera may be the better option.
Toxicity
An important factor to consider with kids or pets is toxicity. While all parts of the monstera plant are non-toxic, the same can’t be said for alocasias. Most varieties contain soluble oxalates that can cause mouth irritation or stomach upset if ingested. So if safety is a priority, I’d give the monstera the edge in this category. Strange as it may seem, their enticing split leaves are perfectly safe to touch!
Price Point
Cost is another major difference. In my experience checking local shops, monsteras tend to retail for less than alocasias. This is likely due to their hardier nature. Alocasias can be more fragile and prone to pest and disease issues. Higher demand also plays a role. With their exotic good looks, alocasias have become extremely trendy and markup prices have inflated as a result. So if you’re on a budget, monsteras will save you some cash in the long run.
Variety of Species
Finally, there is far more variability within the alocasia genus. Over 100 different alocasia species have been identified! They range from miniature to gigantic sizes, and boast an array of veining patterns, colors, and textures. Monsteras, while still beautiful, predominantly come in one signature form. So if you want lots of options to collect, alocasias take the cake hands down in terms of variety.
In conclusion, both of these plants make fantastic additions to any home. But for lower maintenance needs, a space-friendly vine, non-toxic safety, and more affordable pricing – monsteras may have the slight edge. Still, you can’t go wrong with an alocasia if you want a showier focal point with more exotic panache. It really depends on your preferences and growing conditions. So why not give both a try? You may end up loving them equally!
Let me know if any other questions come to mind about these beauties. I’d be happy to share more of my experiences fighting pests, perfecting care routines, or recommend specific varieties to check out. Growing tropical plants is awesome, but navigating the differences can definitely get confusing at times. Hopefully this breakdown helps you decide whether alocasia or monstera is the better fit for your home oasis!
Alocasia vs Monstera – Comparison Table
| Feature | Alocasia | Monstera |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves | Large arrow or spear shaped leaves with wavy or waxy edges | Heart shaped leaves with distinctive holes or slits |
| Care Level | Moderate, needs evenly moist soil, indirect light | Low, thrives in soil kept lightly moist, tolerates low light |
| Size | Ranges from small to very large depending on variety, some reach 5-6ft tall | Vigorous climber reaching 20-30ft tall, often grown as a trailing plant |
| Toxicity | Low toxicity but some varieties produce calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate skin | Low toxicity |
| Flowers | Small, white or purple flowers on tall spikes | Inconspicuous white flowers followed by decorative fruit |
FAQ
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What are the main differences between alocasia and monstera?
Alocasia and monstera are both popular houseplants but there are some pretty major differences. Alocasias have larger, arrow-shaped leaves while monsteras have big perforated leaves. Monsteras also climb with aerial roots while alocasias stay lower to the ground. Monsteras can get enormous but alocasias keep a more moderate size.
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Do alocasias and monsteras like similar care conditions?
For the most part, alocasias and monsteras enjoy similar care. They both want medium to bright indirect sunlight, so no direct sun. They also prefer consistent moisture but not soaked soil – letting the top inch dry out between waterings works well. Humidity is good for both too. However, monsteras can handle lower light better than fussy alocasias. So monsteras are a little hardier overall.
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Which is tougher for beginners – alocasia or monstera?
I’d say alocasia is slightly tougher for new plant parents. While monsteras are pretty forgiving, alocasias can drop leaves if their conditions change too much. Their arrows need just the right amount of sun, water, and humidity. Perhaps a monstera is a better starting point before trying an alocasia. But if you’re diligent about care, both can work for novices – you just gotta baby the alocasia a bit more.
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Do alocasias or monsteras grow faster?
Monsteras tend to grow more rapidly compared to alocasias. Monsteras can climb very high into trees outside, gaining many yards each year. Under indoor conditions, monsteras will spread their aerial roots and leaves faster. Alocasias are slower growers, averaging just a few inches per year. So if you want a plant that fills out an area quickly, monstera is the way to go. Alocasias take their time to size up.
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Which plant spreads more – alocasia or monstera?
When it comes to spreading out, monsteras basically win hands down. Their aerial roots allow monsteras to climb pretty much any surface and take over. In the great outdoors, they’ll invade trees and nearby plants. As for alocasias, they stay more contained in pots or gardens. Some do propagate neatly from offsets over time. But monsteras truly earn their “Monster” name with their vigorous spreading habit. Containers are needed to keep them manageable!
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Are alocasias or monsteras higher maintenance?
On the whole, monsteras require somewhat less fussy care than alocasias. As mentioned before, alocasias dislike any changes to sunlight, water or humidity. You really gotta monitor them closely. Meanwhile monsteras are tougher vines – they’ll cut you some slack if you slip up on care here and there. Both need occasional dusting, but monsteras maybe slightly less so since the leaves are larger. So in summary, while lovely, alocasias definitely seem a bit higher maintenance than monsteras long-term.
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Which plant is showier – elaborately patterned alocasia or giant monstera?
What a tough call! It’s like choosing between two amazing plants. For bold leaf patterns and textures, alocasias really take the cake. Who wouldn’t love an alocasia with silver stripes, deep fronds, or splashy veins? But the giant monstera leaf that inspired artsy decor can give alocasias a run for their money in the drama department. Honestly, both deserve a place in any home. Maybe get one of each and see the stunning sights all year! You can never have too many indoor plant beauties.