There are several differences between a Monstera deliciosa and a Monstera borsigiana.
One of the most important differences is the stem structure of Monstera Deliciosa, which is wavy or curved where it joins the leaf.
This structure is unusual for tropical plants and increases the flexibility of the stem.
By contrast, the stem structure of a Monstera borsigiana is more regular and has a normal plan petiole.
The leaves of a borsigiana are smaller and don’t need much flexibility.
Monstera Deliciosa vs. Borsigiana: The Leaves
There are some major differences between a deliciosa and borsigiana, which you should keep in mind when choosing a plant for your home or office.
First of all, the deliciosa’s leaves are wrinkled and it has a geniculum, which allows the leaves to rotate.
On the other hand, a borsigiana’s leaves are smooth and have a straight base.
The nodes of Monstera borsigiana are wider and longer than those of the deliciosa.
The borsigiana tends to be faster growing and has more nodes. The borsigiana also has more leaves and stems than the deliciosa.
The borsigiana is a smaller monstera whereas the deliciosa is a large species that can reach one meter.
The former grows faster than the latter, and it appreciates a stake when young. However, the latter is more expensive and more sought after by gardeners.
Monstera Deliciosa vs. Borsigiana: Growth Pattern
The deliciosa grows horizontally and spreads itself out on the floor, while the borsigiana grows vertically and spreads itself along its environment.
Both grow to a similar height, but a deliciosa will reach a height of 30 feet in three years.
Both deliciosa and borsigiana have similar root systems. They produce numerous aerial roots, which are known as adventitious roots.
These roots have many functions, including air exchange and moisture absorption. They also play a role in propagation.
The ruffles on the Monstera borsigiana leaf base and the wavy texture of its petioles make the plants look similar.
A borsigiana leaf is broader and flatter, while a deliciosa leaf is more slender and has a more distinct shape.
Monstera borsigiana and deliciosa are often confused. They are related, but the borsigiana lacks a distinct geniculum (joint between stem and leaf). This distinguishes a deliciosa from a borsigiana.
Monstera Deliciosa vs. Borsigiana: Which Grows Faster?
Monstera borsigiana is the smaller of the two species, but it grows much faster.
This plant also develops variegations more easily and can be passed on in propagation. Its leaves are dark green, but they develop characteristic perforations.
Monstera deliciosa is larger, with leaves up to three feet long and up to one meter wide.
A borsigiana’s leaves are smaller, ranging up to 1.6 feet long. However, they are both leathery and glossy. While a borsigiana is smaller, it still grows much faster than a deliciosa.
Monstera borsigiana is not as toxic as Monstera deliciosa. It is not poisonous, but it can burn if exposed to excessive sunlight. In a potted environment, it rarely produces flowers. Its flowers are white, have a stem in the middle, and fall off once mature.
When deciding which plant to buy, it is important to consider its size and location.
Monstera deliciosa tends to grow faster and taller than its borsigiana counterpart. However, you should always remember to prune the other side when adding light. Also, be sure to remove dead leaves as these can cause infections.
How to Tell the Difference Between Monstera Deliciosa and Borsigiana
One way to tell the difference between a Monstera deliciosa and a Monstera borsigiana is to compare their leaf shapes.
The two have similar leaf shapes, but the leaves of a Monstera deliciosa are larger and have a knee-like bend at the base.
This bend, called a geniculum, helps the plant to move and bend more freely. The geniculum on a Monstera deliciosa is wrinkled, whereas on a Monstera borsigiana it is smooth.
The Monstera borsigiana requires higher watering frequency than its corresponding Monstera deliciosa.
Monstera borsigiana does best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. In addition, the Monstera borsigiana needs medium to low soil infiltration and a rising medium rich in organic matter.
Monstera borsigiana is not as dense and has smaller leaves than Monstera deliciosa. However, both plants have a geniculum, or “feet” at the base of their leaves. As a result, they have different growth habits and should be grown in separate locations.
Monstera borsigiana has a longer stem and grows as a vine. In contrast, Monstera deliciosa grows slowly. Its stem is long and starts twining as a vine at an early age. Its leaves are larger than those of Monstera borsigiana, but it is wrinklier species with shorter leafstalks.
The leaves of Monstera deliciosa are leathery and larger than those of Monstera borsigiana. The former can grow up to three feet in length, while the latter only reaches about 1.5 feet in length.
The two plants grow differently, but they both require the same care.
Monstera deliciosa is the most common of the two species. It is also known as the Swiss cheese plant because of its holey leaves.
The latter, on the other hand, has small green flowers that bloom only occasionally indoors. It is native to Southern Mexico and Panama and has edible fruits that are often used as a food.
Monstera borsigiana and Monstera deliciosa are often confused. Though they are closely related, they are two different species. The former has a distinct geniculum, or stem joint, whereas the latter does not.
The difference between the two plants is largely related to the type of soil and light requirements.
Monstera borsigiana is more susceptible to root diseases and requires well-draining soil. The latter requires weekly or biweekly watering.
Watering Requirements
If you’re planting monstera in the ground, you’ll need to know how to water properly. It’s important that you only water when the top couple of inches of the soil become dry, not if the soil is wet and damp.
This way, you’ll prevent the plant from drowning.
Monsteras should be grown in pots that allow for excellent drainage. You should choose a pot at least 2 inches larger than the root ball.
If you’re unsure of the size of the pot, you can use your thumb to measure the soil.
Watering your Monstera only the top couple of inches of soil is essential for optimal growth.
Acid-loving plants like azaleas thrive best in soil with a pH of 5.5 or lower. However, they will be equally happy in neutral or slightly alkaline soil. In general, most houseplants grow best in a soil pH of 6 to 7.0.
Monstera deliciosa and Monstera borsigiana are closely related. Both species require tropical or subtropical conditions to thrive.
They also require high humidity levels to thrive. Excess humidity can cause damage to the plant, so you should monitor your humidity levels carefully.
Both monstera deliciosa and monstera borsigiana are beautiful indoor plants. While they share many characteristics, they are quite different in terms of their root system and appearance.
The former is characterized by aerial roots, whereas the latter has firm roots. The former is larger and has heart-shaped green leaves.
Conclusion
Monstera borsigiana is the more common of the two species.
However, it carries a legacy of toxic qualities, making it dangerous to both humans and animals.
While it’s a beautiful plant and an eye-catcher, Monstera borsigiana can cause serious problems in the soil.
A common symptom of this disease is yellowing along the edges of the leaves. Moreover, mist can spread the pathogen more than expected.