This article, “Monstera Lechleriana vs. Laniata,” will cover some key similarities and differences between these two popular Monstera varieties. Read on to discover:
- An overview of Monstera Lechleriana vs. Laniata.
- The key similarities both these vining plants share.
- The most common differences between the two.
Lechleriana vs. Laniata — An Overview
Native to tropical regions of Central and South America, the M. Laniata, aka the Monstera Adansonii Laniata, is a subspecies of fenestrated Monstera in the Arum family (Archaea).
On the other hand, native to Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, and Panamá, M. Lechleriana is a flowering plant belonging to the genus Monstera in the Arum family (Archaea).
Lechleriana and Laniata are two species of climbing epiphytes; however, they seem quite different. Particularly, the fenestrations (holes) determine the differences between the two.
Monstera Lechleriana vs. Laniata — Key Similarities
Believe it or not, Monsteras are full of surprises; even better, there are approximately 48 (close to 50) species of Monstera in the world, and the majority look similar to each other.
Among the variations found in Central and South America, Monstera Lechleriana and Laniata are relatively rare plants in the Monstera species, which underlines their uniqueness.
However, aside from the obvious rarity and vining nature, these types of Monstera have many similarities, which is why plant parents may confuse the two species for one another.
Wondering what makes them so similar? Read on to discover some characteristics that complicate distinguishing between the two vining plants: Monstera Lechleriana and Laniata.
The Root System
Adventitious roots, sometimes known as aerial roots, may be found on both Monsteras, which assist the two plants in attaching to the tree and drawing moisture from the surrounding air.
In addition, since both Lechleriana and Laniata have an aerial root system, it gives these plants their epiphytic character and allows them to thrive in damp soil as well as on trees.
Generally, the roots emerge from the nodes throughout the length of the vine and extend outwards, either dangling in the air or connecting to a surface to overcome stunted growth.
Growing Habits
Since both the Lechleriana and the Laniata are epiphytes, they have a growth habit that’s quite similar, allowing plant parents to grow extremely rare houseplants together in hanging baskets.
During the growing season, a new stem emerges from the node of the previous stem, rising as one big vine. In addition, leaves grow attached to the stem and spread toward sunlight.
This growing habit enables houseplant owners to grow them on a moss pole, natural bamboo, or PVC pipes to create structures analogous to those seen in the natural growing conditions.
Light Requirements
Since both Monsteras are tropical plants, they are accustomed to filtered, indirect light. Too much direct sun might turn them into brown leaves and disturb the variegated variety.
For optimal bright indirect sunlight, place the roof near a south-facing shade that does not receive direct light. Optimally, 6-8 hours of indirect light is suitable for healthy growth.
These houseplants can survive in direct sunlight during hours when the sun isn’t too harsh, especially during the winter. However, it’s best to stay away from bright, direct light.
Temperature and Humidity
As tropical plants, both Monsteras grow well in temperatures of around 60-80°F. While the Laniata can handle higher temperatures, the two share optimal temperature requirements.
The tropical rainforests, the natural habitat of the two Monstera, are known for their humid environment; therefore, Laniata and Lechleriana do well at high humidity levels above 50%.
To ensure that the plants receive optimal humidity, you can either use a humidifier or a moist pebble tray, mist the leaves, or simply place the plant clusters together for shared humidity.
Soil/Potting Mix
As previously mentioned, the two Monstera plants have adventitious roots that prefer aerated soil. However, it is essential to note that they also prefer nutrient-dense well-draining soil.
When preparing your own soil mix for the Monstera, you may amend it with more coco coir (also known as coconut fiber) and orchid bark/peat moss (also known as sphagnum moss).
Additionally, you are recommended to fertilize the houseplants at least twice throughout the year. To prevent root rot, look for pots with drainage holes for proper water drainage.
Potting/Repotting
The Monstera genus is made up of plants that grow quickly, especially in juvenile stages. As young plants, every few weeks, the Laniata and Lechleriana will need to be repotted.
But when they are older, they will only need to be replanted about once every two years. When the root ball grows out of the drainage hole, this is a sign that it needs a new pot.
When choosing a pot for repotting, go for a bigger pot (a few diameters) than the previous one with drainage holes. A terracotta pot with good drainage works best for both houseplants.
Note that both Lechleriana and Laniata are propagated from stem cuttings; therefore, you must cut the node (sprouting roots) from the leaf stems with at least one leaf.
Monstera Lechleriana vs. Laniata — Key Differences
Finally, we discussed the similarities between Monstera Lechleriana and Laniata to give you an idea of the shared characteristics; now, it’s time to move on to the main difference (s).
Unlike most Monstera plants, the differences between Lechleriana and Laniata are quite major and matter for plant enthusiasts who are adamant about keeping one over the other.
Fenestration (Holes)
The place of the fenestrations on the Monstera Lechleriana and Laniata, as well as the size of those openings, is the primary distinction between the two favored Monstera houseplants.
The fenestrations (holes) of the Laniata, which are quite huge and dispersed, distinguish it as a subspecies of the Monstera Adansonii, while the Lechleriana’s fenestrations are symmetrical.
Additionally, Monstera Lechleriana doesn’t have any apertures even when they are in the juvenile stage, whereas the Laniata may still have a few oval to elongated fenestrations (holes).
The Monstera Lechleriana’s fenestrations appear along the midrib of the Laniata, expanding outwards, while the Laniata’s grow multiple fenestrations that are rounder as they mature.
Fertilization
Unlike most plants, Laniata is far more fragile than Monstera Lechleriana, which shows how complex its care needs are—one of the requirements that stand out is fertilization.
Laniata is a fast-growing plant that requires fertilizer throughout the spring and summer months; however, Lechleriana doesn’t need regular feeding to maintain healthy growth.
Since Laniata absorbs nutrients faster, investing in a slow-release fertilizer is your best bet, while for Monstera Lechleriana, a basic organic fertilizer is sufficient to get the job done.
In addition, you can add activated charcoal to help eliminate impurities in the soil, ensuring optimal levels of fertilizer, especially during winter months when the air is fairly dry.
Leaves/Foliage
Even though Monstera Lechleriana and Laniata have quite similar development patterns, they appear rather different from one another in terms of foliage and overall structure.
M. Laniata has more delicate, bright green oval leaves, typically around 4-inches long. Unlike Monstera Lechleriana, they have a narrow form, with fuller growth and abundant leaves.
On the other hand, the large green leaves of Monstera Lechleriana have a round form with thinner, fewer holes (smaller holes) on the central vein and may grow up to 10-inches long.
Monstera Lechleriana vs. Laniata — Things to Know
Now that you know the key similarities and differences between Monstera Lechleriana and Laniata, it is time to discover some important things to know about the Monstera species.
The Laniata, technically known as Monstera Adansonii Laniata, is a subspecies of the Monstera Adansonii Var. Thus, it is difficult to determine the distinctions between the two.
Nevertheless, even though they are almost the same type, there are still some distinguishing characteristics, such as the size of the larger leaves, fenestrations (holes), and vein color.
For example, Laniata produces large leaves with a glossy texture; however, most Monstera Adansonii Var cultivars have a matte texture, particularly on the undersides of the leaf.
Botanists often identify between types of Monstera Adansonii Var based on their outward appearance. Besides Monstera Adansonii Var Laniata, the common subspecies include:
- Monstera Adansonii Friedrichsthalii
- Monstera Adansonii Archipelago
- Monstera Adansonii Blanchetii
- Monstera Adansonii Klotzschiana
- Monstera Adansonii (Swiss Cheese Plant)
- Monstera Epipremnoides Adansonii
- Monstera Adansonii Obliqua
- Monstera Acuminata Adansonii
Monstera Lechleriana Care
Here are some important Monstera Lechleriana care tips for new plant owners.
- Sun: Medium to bright indirect sunlight.
- Water: Fresh water if 70% of the soil is dry.
- Fertilizer: A fine diluted balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: A well-draining soil with 20% perlite.
Frequently Asked Questions
This brings us to the end of this comparison article. As a bonus, we’ve taken some time to answer questions about the Monstera species.
- How is Monstera Acuminata Different from Adansonii?
Monstera Acuminata indeed resembles Adansonii; there are many differences to be aware of.
The color and fenestration patterns of Monstera Acuminata are distinct from Monstera Adansonii, while the juvenile (round form/narrow form) has quite distinct appearances.
- Are Laniata and Lechleriana’s Leaves Attached to Tree Trunk?
The answer is yes. In the natural, tropical environment, both Lechleriana and Laniata grow like climbing vines that attach their leaves to the trunks of trees to reach the sunlight.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
