Rhaphidophora tetrasperma VS Monstera deliciosa – (Full Guide)

In this guide, we outlined the key differences between Rhaphidophora tetrasperma VS Monstera deliciosa. Monstera Deliciosa is a well-known houseplant because of its unusual leaves that have a pattern-like split and hole structure.

It may be difficult to identify it from other houseplants, such as Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma.

Although they may share a similar appearance, they are completely different. This article will help you distinguish between these climbing vines.

Monstera Deliciosa and Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma may look similar in their leaf appearances, but if you look closely, you’ll see a distinct difference in size. Monstera is larger than Rhaphidophora.

Rhaphidophora tetrasperma VS Monstera deliciosa Differences

Let me start by explaining the differences between Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma & Monstera Deliciosa so that you don’t get confused.

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These are the factors you should look at to determine if your houseplant has Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma, or Monstera Deliciosa.

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Taxonomy

You’ll be astonished to see the unique structures of Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma as well as Monstera Deliciosa. However, if you look at their taxonomy you will see that they are completely different.

The table below shows the differences in their taxonomy.

Plant Name:	Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma	Monstera Deliciosa
Another Name	Mini Monstera	Swiss cheese plant
Kingdom:	Plantae	Plantae
Subkingdom:	Embryophyta	Viridiplantae
Class:	Liliopsida	Magnoliopsida
Order:	Arales	Alismatales
Family:	Araceae – Juss.	Araceae – Arums
Genus	Rhaphidophora	Monstera Adans.

You can now conclude that Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma and Monstera Deliciosa are completely different. They look identical, but they are actually from two different families.

Leaf Shape and Texture

You might think that the two houseplants are identical because of the similar heart-shaped structures.

You will notice a significant difference if you put them side-by-side.

Monstera Deliciosa, as monstrous and terrifying as its name may sound, is actually a lot larger than Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma.

Monstera’s leaves can reach as high as two feet, and the entire plant can grow up to eight feet tall.

Rhaphidophora leaves can only grow to less than one foot in length, but the entire plant can reach five feet tall.

Monstera leaves are darker than Rhaphidophora’s dull, light-green ones in terms of color.

If you look closely, you’ll also notice some elliptical holes or round holes in Monstera leaves’ middle section. These holes are not found in Rhaphidophora leaf.

There is also a difference in the younger leaves, as Monstera has splits and holes while Rhaphidophora does not.

Fruits and Flowers

Monstera is a houseplant with a low likelihood of flowering, but it can bloom fully outdoors in 2-3 years.

Monstera flowers one year later and produces an edible fruit that is long-lasting. It can be harvested at the time when the base fruitlets’ caps begin to appear.

Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma, however, does not produce any edible fruit.

Growth Habit

Monstera and Rhaphidophora both grow quickly if they are given enough sunlight and nutrients.

Rhaphidophora, however, is more prolific in its growth habits. It is actually one of the fastest-growing types of aroid.

To ensure the best possible growth, both plants should be allowed to climb so that they can branch quickly in all directions.

Price

You need to be able to tell the price difference when you grow houseplants.

It’s obvious that Monstera is much more expensive than Rhaphidophora.

Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma’s average price is between $5 and $20. Monstera Deliciosa, on the other hand has an average cost of $20-40.

Prices for both plants vary greatly depending on their size, location, and variegation.

It’s a friendly reminder that you should be cautious when purchasing your plant online. Some claim they are selling Monstera but in fact, it was a mini Monstera. You should not be deceived by the large price difference between them.

Growing Needs

Monstera and Rhaphidophora actually have nearly identical growing requirements, since they share tropical characteristics. There are some differences between the growing requirements of Monstera and Rhaphidophora that you should be aware of once you have identified your plant.

Continue reading to learn more about your plant’s requirements.

Watering frequency

Rhaphidophora, as you’ve read, is a houseplant that grows quickly compared to Monstera.

Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma’s leaves can then take as much water and their soil will dry quickly. Regular watering is important to ensure your plant’s physiological needs are met.

In summer, it is best to water your plants once every 5 to 7 days and once per month in winter.

Monstera Deliciosa, on the other hand, needs to dry its soil between watering. It is therefore only necessary to water the plant occasionally.

It is best to water your plants once per week during summer, and not during winter.

Monstera and Rhaphidophora both love moisture, but they can become root-notifiable if they are overwatered.

Fertilizer

Although you don’t need to fertilize Rhaphidophora and Monstera, it is possible to occasionally use a sufficient amount.

You can fertilize your Monstera Deliciosa once per two weeks during its growing period, and once per month thereafter.

Raphidophora has delicate roots that are susceptible to fertilizer burn, so it is more difficult than Monstera. You can avoid this by using a high-quality organic fertilizer that contains fewer chemicals to prevent the roots from burning.

Repotting

Rhaphidophora is also very similar to Monstera in terms of their repotting purpose.

Monstera is a large plant but has slower growth than Raphidophora.

Repotting is most likely required every 2 to 3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container.

Raphidophora, due to its fast-growing abilities, requires frequent repotting.

Raphidophora could also be repotted due to root rot or other pathogenic infections. This is possible because it has sensitive roots.

If your plant is suffering from root infections, you should repot it once a year.

These guidelines will help you when repotting Monstera and Raphidophora.

• For any signs of infection, always inspect the roots. All infected areas should be removed immediately
• Place your plant in a pot that is a few inches bigger than the one you have before. You will not see any improvement in the growth of your plant if you use larger pots.
• Use the soil that was used if you have a disease. Use a new, well-draining pot mix instead.
• Repot the plant immediately and then stop watering it for 7-14 days. This will allow the plant to recover from possible transplant shock.

Similarities between Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma & Monstera Deliciosa

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Monstera Deliciosa and Rhaphidophora tetrasperma also known as (mini monstera) have many similarities, including the same design and structure. This is why gardeners often interchange the two species.

You may find the following list useful to give you an idea of what I mean.

Sunlight

Monstera and Rhaphidophora were originally from warmer regions. They will therefore most likely thrive in an environment with lots of sunlight.

Both will thrive in bright indirect sunlight. Too much sunlight can scorch the leaves, especially in hot seasons.

It is best to place them in an east-facing window, as sunlight is abundant in this location.

To control the light entering your windows, it is a good idea to put a shade.

Soil

Monstera and Rhaphidophora are climbing plants that use vertical roots to support their climb. This is the type of setup you should mimic when growing houseplants.

This is likely to be impossible at home. You can still improvise with a well-draining, well-aerated potting mixture that retains moisture for a brief period.

Both Monstera and Raphidophora love moisture so a mix of sandy loamy and medium loamy is best. It is important that they drain well and retain water at the same time.

Use a peat-based potter mix with orchid bark.

Keep in mind that neither plant has adhering roots that can pull them up. A stake or pole can be used to assist them in climbing.

Temperature

Monstera Deliciosa and Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma both prefer temperatures between 55-85degF (12-25 degC).

If you grow them as houseplants, however, they will adapt to your home as long as it is within the allowed temperature range.

You should move your plant to a more temperate area if the temperature drops below 55°F (12°C).

Humidity

Regarding humidity, both Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma and Monstera Deliciosa enjoy a humid environment.

It is best to place them where the humidity level is between 50% and 60%.

They are adaptable to their environment so don’t worry if it rises or falls within the recommended range.

Common Pest

Monstera Deliciosa and Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma are common invaders in these systems.

Aphids and mealybugs as well as spider mites and thrips can cause severe damage to your plants’ leaves.

You can wipe the leaves of your plant with alcohol-soaked cotton or with insecticidal soap if you suspect there may be a pest infestation. You can also spray your plant with Neem oil twice per week until you are free of pest infestations.

Toxicity

Both plants belong to the Araceae family, which is known for its toxic calcium oxalate crystals.

These saps can also be dangerous for humans if eaten. It can cause diarrhea and swelling of the lips.

Consider hanging your Rhaphidophora and Monstera on the ceiling if you have pets, cats, or children.

Pruning

Pruning is essential for both Rhaphidophora and Monstera houseplants. Pruning helps to promote new growth and allows for the manipulation of the growth of leaves. This makes it easier to landscape your home.

If it becomes difficult or messy, you can trim the aerial roots.

Pruning is a good option to reduce the number of healthy roots and root rot.

However, both Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma & Monstera Deliciosa find pruning to be a great way to ensure their thriving.

Propagation

Monstera and Rhaphidophora are both excellent plants because of their ability to respond well to trimming.

You can use two methods of propagation for both of these plants. These are all proven methods that gardeners use for propagation.

Our first choice is the traditional method of cutting.

• Use a pruning shear to make a cut below an aerial root or node. It is preferable to make 5-6 cuttings.
• Remove extra leaves. It is enough to remove two to three leaves.
• You can place it in a container with water. Place the root or node in a container filled with water.
• Change the water at least once every three days, and watch for roots to grow.
• Once the roots are in good condition, you can transfer them to a clean potting mixture.

We now move on to the second, Air layering.

• Use a pruning shear to make an incision below an aerial root or node.
• Use moistened sphagnum moss to wrap the node with the aerial roots.
• Wrap it with plastic wrap again and secure the ends with lace.
• You can untie the lace every 5 to 7 days and spray the sphagnum Moss with water. This will help retain its moisture.
• You’ll start to see roots after a few months. You can remove the root packet and plant it in a well-draining and well-aerated mix.

 

Rhaphidophora tetrasperma vs Monstera deliciosa – Which Houseplant to choose?

Now that you know that Monstera Deliciosa and the Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma are not the same things, it is time to decide which one to bring home.

These are some things to consider as you make your final decision.

How much space do you have?

These plants are not windowsill-friendly. However, if you only have a small corner of your apartment or cubicle for a houseplant then the Rhaphidophora Tetrosperma is better than the Monstera Deliciosa.

The Swiss cheese plant can be enjoyed in the same tropical feeling, but the Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma is smaller.

How much time you can devote to plant care

Everybody is busy these days. But everyone has different levels of busy. You might find the Rhaphidophora Tetrosperma needs a bit more care.

You won’t need to feed Mini Monstera fertilizer for several months if you use a slow-release fertilizer. The plant likes a little extra water.

How patient you are

If you expect to see immediate results from your houseplant, the Monstera Deliciosa may not be the best choice. It takes years for this plant to reach its full potential.

See Also: Anthurium Crystallinum vs Clarinervium

Conclusion

Although they may look similar in appearance and structure Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma differs from Monstera Deliciosa in terms of their taxonomy and leaf shape, growth habits, fertilizer usage, and other requirements.

You will be able to quickly identify if you are growing a Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma, or Monstera Deliciosa as you get to the end of this article. So you will be to learn Rhaphidophora tetrasperma VS Monstera deliciosa diferrences.