Content
- What is the difference between Monstera and Philodendron?
- Philodendron does not always like climbing and leafing his leaves
- Flowers and fruits are only superficially similar
- Monstera filters the water - Philodendron purifies the air
- Tips
The leaves of the Philodendron (left) and the Monstera (middle) are similar, but can be distinguished
What is the difference between Monstera and Philodendron?
They both come from the primeval forests of South America and inspire since generations as evergreen houseplants. Monstera and Philodendron are at first sight confusingly alike. So it is not uncommon that a window leaf in trade is simply labeled as a philodendron. Nevertheless, there are differences between the two exotic ornamental plants that hobby gardeners should not ignore. You can find out which ones here.
Philodendron does not always like climbing and leafing his leaves
Monstera and Philodendron are both assigned to the Araceae family and are therefore related to each other. Nevertheless, there are two different genera, as the plants differ significantly, among other things, in their growth. We have summarized the most important features for you here:
Some of the most popular philodendrons for the room culture stand out with leathery leaves whose underside shimmers reddish. In contrast, the foliage on the window leaf is glossy green on both sides.
Flowers and fruits are only superficially similar
Where the two primeval forest plants feel comfortable, they surprise with their flowers in advanced age. As typical for arum family, the flasks are covered with cream white bracts. Here ends the similarities, because there are the following, serious differences:
So that a Philodendron bears as a houseplant after flowering fruits, thus a manual pollination is required. Although the piston-shaped fruits are visually similar, there is an important departure. The ripe fruit of a monstera deliciosa is suitable for consumption, whereas the poisonous fruit of a philodendron can cause considerable nausea.
Monstera filters the water - Philodendron purifies the air
In addition to their magnificent appearance, both types of plants are useful in different ways in indoor culture. The window leaf develops long air roots, which absorb water and nutrients and act as adhesive organs. If these aerial roots are creeping into an aquarium, they filter nitrate and nitrite out of the water, which makes the fish very comfortable.
A philodendron is able to filter out toxic substances from the breathing air via its mighty leaves. Therefore, the tree friend is also welcome in office space, there to absorb carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and benzene.
Tips
Regardless of their sometimes serious differences, Monstera and Philodendre pull together in terms of location and care. Both plant species love a partially shaded, warm place with high humidity. Most of all, they are poured with lime-free water and regularly pampered with a gentle mist.