No, Monstera is not a Philodendron. Monstera and Philodendron are related houseplants because both belong to the aroid family, Araceae, but they are different genera. Monstera deliciosa belongs to the genus Monstera. True philodendrons belong to the genus Philodendron.
The confusion usually comes from common names. Monstera deliciosa is often called split-leaf philodendron, cutleaf philodendron, or Swiss cheese plant. Those common names are widely used, but they do not make Monstera a true Philodendron.
This guide explains the taxonomy, common-name confusion, and the practical visual differences between Monstera, true Philodendron, and the plant often sold as split-leaf or tree philodendron. For the deeper side-by-side comparison, see HerbVity’s split-leaf philodendron vs Monstera deliciosa guide.
Quick Answer: Is Monstera a Philodendron?
Monstera is not a Philodendron. The easiest way to say it is this:
- Monstera: genus Monstera, family Araceae.
- Philodendron: genus Philodendron, family Araceae.
- Both: aroids, which explains why they can look and behave somewhat similarly.
- Main confusion: Monstera deliciosa is commonly called “split-leaf philodendron,” even though it is not a true philodendron.
If you are looking at a plant with large glossy leaves that have deep edge splits and internal holes, it is probably a Monstera. If the plant has deeply lobed leaves but no internal window-like holes, it may be a true split-leaf or tree philodendron. If it has smaller heart-shaped leaves on trailing vines, it is more likely a heartleaf Philodendron.
Monstera vs Philodendron at a Glance
| Feature | Monstera deliciosa | True Philodendron | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scientific genus | Monstera | Philodendron | They are related but not the same plant group. |
| Plant family | Araceae | Araceae | Both are aroids, so care and appearance can overlap. |
| Common confusing name | Split-leaf philodendron, cutleaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant | Heartleaf philodendron, tree philodendron, split leaf philodendron, lacy tree philodendron | Common names are not always botanically precise. |
| Mature leaf pattern | Large leaves with splits and often internal holes | Varies widely; many have heart-shaped, lobed, or deeply cut leaves without Monstera-style holes | Leaf pattern is the fastest practical ID clue. |
| Growth habit | Climbing evergreen vine with aerial roots | Can be vining, climbing, trailing, upright, or self-heading depending on species | Support and pruning needs can differ. |
| Classic houseplant example | Monstera deliciosa | Philodendron hederaceum, Philodendron bipinnatifidum, Philodendron erubescens | Knowing the actual genus helps you follow better care and ID advice. |
| Pet safety | Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed | Many philodendrons are toxic to cats and dogs if chewed | Keep both groups away from pets that chew plants. |
Why People Think Monstera Is a Philodendron
People think Monstera is a Philodendron because of old and popular common names. Monstera deliciosa is commonly called split-leaf philodendron, cutleaf philodendron, Swiss cheese plant, hurricane plant, and Mexican breadfruit. The name “split-leaf philodendron” is especially confusing because it sounds like a true Philodendron.
Nursery tags, online shops, and older houseplant books may use those common names loosely. A plant may be labeled “split leaf philodendron” even when the scientific name is Monstera deliciosa. That is why the scientific name matters.
There is another layer of confusion: a different plant, commonly called tree philodendron, lacy tree philodendron, or split leaf philodendron, is often associated with Philodendron bipinnatifidum, older names such as Philodendron selloum, and alternate or synonym names such as Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum. That plant is not Monstera either.
What Family Is Monstera In?
Monstera is in the family Araceae, commonly called the aroid or arum family. Kew’s Plants of the World Online classifies Monstera deliciosa in family Araceae, genus Monstera, species Monstera deliciosa.
That family connection explains why Monstera shares some traits with other aroids: aerial roots, climbing or semi-climbing growth, large tropical leaves, and arum-type flowers in mature plants. Missouri Botanical Garden describes Monstera deliciosa as a climbing evergreen perennial vine with perforated leaves, thick stems, and long cord-like aerial roots.
What Family Is Philodendron In?
Philodendron is also in the family Araceae, but it is a separate genus from Monstera. NC State Extension describes Philodendron as a genus of more than 600 herbaceous perennial species in the arum family, Araceae. Kew’s Plants of the World Online also lists Philodendron as an accepted genus in Araceae.
That is the cleanest botanical distinction: same family, different genus. Monstera is not a Philodendron in the same way that a peace lily is not a Philodendron, even though both are also aroids.
How to Tell Monstera From Philodendron
For home growers, the easiest way to tell Monstera from Philodendron is to look at the leaves, growth habit, and plant tag together. Do not rely on the common name alone.
Leaf holes and fenestrations
Mature Monstera deliciosa leaves often develop both splits along the edges and internal holes. These holes are commonly called fenestrations. NC State lists “gigantic pinnately-lobed leaves with internal holes” as a quick ID hint for Monstera deliciosa.
Some young Monstera leaves are solid and mostly uncut, so a juvenile plant may not show the classic holes yet. But as a healthy plant matures in good light, the leaves usually become larger, split, and perforated.
Growth habit and aerial roots
Monstera deliciosa is a climbing vine. It uses aerial roots and support to climb, and indoor plants often benefit from a moss pole, plank, trellis, or other sturdy support.
Philodendron growth habits vary more. Some philodendrons are trailing vines, such as heartleaf philodendron. Others are self-heading or upright, such as tree philodendron types. NC State divides Philodendron into climbing or vining types and non-climbing or self-heading types.
Leaf shape and plant structure
A mature Monstera leaf is usually large, glossy, and perforated. A heartleaf Philodendron leaf is usually smaller, heart-shaped, and unperforated. A tree philodendron or split-leaf philodendron leaf can be very large and deeply lobed, but it usually does not have Monstera’s internal window-like holes.
Clemson Cooperative Extension describes cut-leaf philodendron, Philodendron bipinnatifidum, as having deep cut leaves with no holes. That single clue helps separate it from mature Monstera deliciosa.
Common names on plant tags
Common names are helpful for shoppers but risky for identification. “Swiss cheese plant” usually points to Monstera. “Heartleaf philodendron” usually points to a true Philodendron. “Split-leaf philodendron” can point to either Monstera deliciosa or a true split-leaf/tree philodendron, depending on who wrote the tag.
When accuracy matters, look for the scientific name. Monstera deliciosa, Philodendron hederaceum, and Philodendron bipinnatifidum are different plants.
Monstera Deliciosa vs Split-Leaf Philodendron
This is the most important practical comparison because both plants may be sold under confusing common names.
| Feature | Monstera deliciosa | Split-leaf / tree Philodendron |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific group | Genus Monstera | Usually associated with genus Philodendron, especially Philodendron bipinnatifidum, or related naming systems |
| Common names | Swiss cheese plant, split-leaf philodendron, cutleaf philodendron | Tree philodendron, lacy tree philodendron, cut-leaf philodendron, split leaf philodendron |
| Mature leaves | Large glossy leaves with edge splits and internal holes | Large glossy leaves with deep lobes or cuts, usually no internal holes |
| Growth habit | Climbing vine with aerial roots | Upright, reclining, shrub-like, or self-heading habit; may climb with support over time |
| Indoor support | Often benefits from moss pole or trellis | Usually needs space more than a climbing pole, though support may help mature plants |
| Best ID clue | Internal holes in mature leaves | Deeply lobed leaves without Monstera-style holes |
Monstera vs Heartleaf Philodendron
Heartleaf philodendron is much easier to separate from Monstera. It is usually sold as Philodendron hederaceum, also called heartleaf philodendron, cordatum, or sweetheart plant. Missouri Botanical Garden describes it as a vine in the family Araceae with bright, glossy, heart-shaped leaves.
The key difference is size and leaf structure. Monstera has large, split, perforated leaves as it matures. Heartleaf philodendron has smaller, heart-shaped leaves and trailing or climbing stems. It does not develop the large windowed Monstera leaf.
| Feature | Monstera deliciosa | Heartleaf Philodendron |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Monstera deliciosa | Philodendron hederaceum |
| Leaf shape | Large, glossy, split, and often perforated when mature | Smaller, glossy, heart-shaped leaves |
| Growth habit | Climbing vine with thick stems and aerial roots | Trailing or climbing vine with thinner stems |
| Typical indoor size | Large floor plant | Hanging basket, shelf plant, or climbing/trailing pot plant |
| Best use | Statement plant with support | Easy trailing or climbing houseplant |
What About Thaumatophyllum?
You may see the name Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum on plant tags, plant forums, or botanical discussions. This name is tied to the plant many people know as tree philodendron, split leaf philodendron, or formerly Philodendron selloum.
Taxonomy can differ by database. Kew’s Plants of the World Online currently treats Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum as a synonym of Philodendron bipinnatifidum, while also noting that the Thaumatophyllum name has been accepted under an alternative taxonomy. NC State lists Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum among names previously used for Philodendron bipinnatifidum.
For a houseplant owner, the practical point is simple: Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, Philodendron bipinnatifidum, and old plant tags such as Philodendron selloum refer to the tree/split-leaf philodendron group, not Monstera deliciosa.
Do Monstera and Philodendron Need the Same Care?
Monstera and Philodendron care overlaps because both are tropical aroids, but they are not identical. Most do best with warm indoor temperatures, bright indirect light, a well-draining potting mix, and careful watering. Still, plant size and growth habit change the details.
| Care factor | Monstera deliciosa | Philodendron | Practical takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect light; avoid harsh direct sun indoors | Often bright indirect light, though some philodendrons tolerate lower light | Do not put either in deep shade if you want strong growth. |
| Water | Water thoroughly, then allow the upper portion of the mix to dry | Keep evenly moist but not soggy; avoid standing water | Overwatering can cause root problems in both groups. |
| Support | Often benefits from a moss pole, plank, or trellis | Depends on type; vining philodendrons climb or trail, self-heading types grow upright | Match support to the growth habit, not the family name. |
| Soil | Chunky, airy, well-draining mix works well | Moist, well-drained, organic-rich mix works for many species | Dense, soggy soil is a problem for both. |
| Size management | Can become a large floor plant with thick stems and aerial roots | Ranges from trailing vines to large self-heading plants | Check the exact species before choosing a pot or location. |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings with a node | Often stem cuttings, layering, or division depending on type | A leaf alone is not enough for Monstera propagation. |
Does the Name Matter for Plant Care?
Yes. The common-name mix-up matters because care advice can become too vague. Monstera, heartleaf philodendron, and tree philodendron can all be sold as easy tropical houseplants, but they grow differently.
A mature Monstera usually needs more vertical support and space than a small trailing heartleaf philodendron. A tree philodendron may need floor space because it becomes a broad upright plant. A heartleaf philodendron may trail from a hanging basket or climb a small pole. If you treat every “split leaf” plant the same, you may under-support one plant or overpot another.
For Monstera-specific care, start with HerbVity’s guides to Monstera light needs, best soil for Monstera plants, and Monstera soil mix recipe.
Are Monstera and Philodendron Safe for Pets?
No. Monstera and many Philodendron plants should not be treated as pet-safe. The ASPCA lists Swiss cheese plant, Monstera deliciosa, as toxic to dogs and cats because of insoluble calcium oxalates. The ASPCA also lists heartleaf philodendron, Philodendron hederaceum, as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Possible signs after chewing these plants can include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. If a pet chews Monstera or Philodendron, contact a veterinarian or animal poison control service promptly. For more detail, see HerbVity’s Are Monstera Plants Toxic to Cats?
Related HerbVity Guides
- Split Leaf Philodendron vs Monstera Deliciosa
- Monstera Soil Mix Recipe
- Monstera Propagation Problems
- How to Propagate Monstera
- Best Soil for Monstera Plants
- Monstera Light Needs
- Are Monstera Plants Toxic to Cats?
- Peat Moss vs Sphagnum Moss
Sources and Further Reading
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Monstera deliciosa
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Monstera deliciosa
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Monstera deliciosa
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Philodendron
- NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Philodendron bipinnatifidum
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Philodendron
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Philodendron bipinnatifidum
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
- Iowa State University Extension: All About Aroids
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Philodendron, Pothos, Monstera
- ASPCA: Swiss Cheese Plant Toxicity
- ASPCA: Heartleaf Philodendron Toxicity
FAQs About Monstera and Philodendron
Is Monstera a Philodendron?
No. Monstera is not a Philodendron. Monstera belongs to the genus Monstera, while true philodendrons belong to the genus Philodendron. Both are in the aroid family, Araceae, which is why they can look related.
Why is Monstera called split-leaf philodendron?
Monstera deliciosa is often called split-leaf philodendron because of its large split leaves and old common-name usage. The name is common, but it is botanically confusing because Monstera is not a true Philodendron.
Is Swiss cheese plant a Philodendron?
No. Swiss cheese plant usually refers to Monstera deliciosa or another Monstera species. It is in the same family as Philodendron, but it belongs to the genus Monstera.
Are Monstera and Philodendron in the same family?
Yes. Monstera and Philodendron are both in the family Araceae, also called the aroid or arum family. They are related at the family level but separated into different genera.
How do I tell Monstera and Philodendron apart?
Look at mature leaves and growth habit. Monstera deliciosa usually has large leaves with edge splits and internal holes. Heartleaf philodendron has smaller heart-shaped leaves, while tree philodendron has deeply lobed leaves without Monstera-style internal holes.
Is split-leaf philodendron the same as Monstera?
Sometimes the common name split-leaf philodendron is used for Monstera deliciosa, but it can also refer to true tree philodendron types such as Philodendron bipinnatifidum. Check the scientific name to know which plant you have.
Do Monstera and Philodendron need the same care?
Their care overlaps because both are tropical aroids, but it is not identical. Monstera deliciosa usually needs more space and support as it matures, while Philodendron care depends on whether the plant is vining, trailing, compact, or self-heading.
Are Monstera and Philodendron toxic to pets?
Yes. Monstera deliciosa and many Philodendron species contain insoluble calcium oxalates and can irritate the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat if chewed. Keep both away from pets that chew plants.