---
title: "i was recently gifted this plant and i can’t tell if it’s a monstera…"
description: "i was recently gifted this plant and i can’t tell if it’s a monstera or a philodendron."
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/2OB1JXZXRQeo4spB0EojrA/xA-eWkmBS6yWnixj5p_xKA"
community: "Plant Identification"
author: "Zoe"
published: "2024-09-16T13:16:36.852095Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/5imfcfIAVZLP0N58v2LdMhHQnV7n-HRpAUHSysCq7lA/SzenZPIZSIyOa_HLIsIYDA.webp?size=large"
---

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# i was recently gifted this plant and i can’t tell if it’s a monstera…

_Posted by Zoe on 2024-09-16_

i was recently gifted this plant and i can’t tell if it’s a monstera or a philodendron.

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/5imfcfIAVZLP0N58v2LdMhHQnV7n-HRpAUHSysCq7lA/SzenZPIZSIyOa_HLIsIYDA.webp?size=large)

## 2 comments

### Moonscar1 commented on 2024-09-16

It looks like a young Monstera to me

### B-Angie-B 2024 commented on 2024-09-16

The plant in the image is likely a \*\*Monstera\*\* species, specifically a young \*\*Monstera deliciosa\*\* or \*\*Monstera borsigiana\*\*. Here’s how to tell and why it might be mistaken for a Philodendron:

\### Identifying Features:  
1\. \*\*Leaf Shape and Texture:\*\* The leaves are heart-shaped and have a glossy, leathery texture. In young Monsteras, the leaves are usually solid without fenestrations (holes), which can look similar to some Philodendron species.  
2\. \*\*New Growth:\*\* Monstera leaves tend to grow with a sheath that wraps around the new leaf as it emerges, which can help differentiate them from some Philodendron varieties.  
3\. \*\*Growth Pattern:\*\* Monsteras typically grow upright at first and then start to climb or trail as they mature. They often develop aerial roots that help them climb.  
4\. \*\*Size and Maturity:\*\* As Monstera plants mature, their leaves develop distinctive splits and holes. If the plant continues to grow and starts showing these features, it's a clear indication that it's a Monstera.

\### Why It Might Be Confused with a Philodendron:  
\- Both Monsteras and certain Philodendron species, like Philodendron hederaceum, have similar leaf shapes when young and can be mistaken for one another.  
\- They belong to the same family (Araceae), which explains their similar appearance.

\### Care Tips (for Both Monstera and Philodendron):  
\- \*\*Light:\*\* Both prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.  
\- \*\*Water:\*\* Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as both are sensitive to overwatering.  
\- \*\*Humidity:\*\* They appreciate higher humidity but can adapt to normal household levels.  
\- \*\*Soil:\*\* Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot.

As the plant grows and matures, it will become easier to distinguish whether it's a Monstera or a Philodendron based on its growth habits and leaf development. For now, enjoy caring for this beautiful plant, and watch how it evolves!

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