If you’ve ever found yourself lost in a tangle of names like Swiss Cheese Plant, Monkey Mask, or Monstera obliqua, you’re not alone. At Happy Houseplants, we hear from customers all the time who are unsure which Monstera they have—or which one they’re actually looking for.
With so many variants, trade names, and mislabels floating around (especially online), we thought it was time to set the record straight. In this blog, we’ll explore four of the most commonly confused Monstera types: the much-loved Monstera deliciosa, the striking Monstera adansonii, the commonly mislabelled but charming Monstera obliqua ‘Monkey Mask’, and the ultra-rare collector’s dream, Monstera obliqua ‘Peru’.
And just to add to the mix—there are currently around 50 recognised Monstera species, plus numerous regional variants and cultivars. On top of that, other tropical aroids like Rhaphidophora, Epipremnum, and even Philodendron can look confusingly similar, especially when young. It’s no wonder plant lovers get tangled in the names!
Monstera deliciosa – The Classic Cheese Plant
Let’s start with the superstar. Monstera deliciosa, often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a firm favourite in homes across the UK—and for good reason. With its large, glossy leaves and iconic split patterns, it brings a lush, tropical feel to any space.
- Origin: Central America
- Leaf style: Large, heart-shaped leaves with slits and holes (fenestrations)
- Growth habit: Upright and vining with support
- Best for: Beginners and statement plant lovers
Deliciosa is relatively fast-growing, tolerant of a wide range of conditions, and known for making a bold statement in the corner of a room. But despite its nickname, it’s not actually the Swiss Cheese Plant that gives the family its holey reputation…
