This Rare ‘Mystery Monstera’ is Tipped to be the Next Plant Collector's Obsession of 2026 – Even Experts Don't Know Where it Comes From
'Burle Marx Flame' was accidentally discovered in the 80s and is now highly sought-after
While you may already know and love the Monstera deliciosa, there's a new variety on the scene looking to claim the title of most collectible houseplant of the year: meet the 'Burle Marx Flame' monstera. The most intriguing thing about this rare variety is not its striking lance-shaped foliage, but the fact that experts have no idea where it comes from.
This monstera was unexpectedly discovered in Brazil back in 1981 amongst the personal collection of landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, though its exact origin remains a mystery. This rare houseplant is now available to buy (see the Costa Farms 'Burle Marx Flame' monstera on Amazon) and is anticipated to become one of the most sought-after plants to collect in 2026.
The 'Burle Marx Flame' monstera has an unusual flame-like look, especially when young. As it matures, it produces the classic heart-shaped monstera leaves, with striking slender fenestrations. Costa Farms offers it with a white self-watering pot, which aids moisture management so it never dries out or becomes oversaturated.
An Unknown History
Roberto Burle Marx was a landscape architect based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He kept an expansive personal collection of tropical plants, which is where 'Burle Marx Flame' monstera was discovered in the 80s.
'We’re unsure if it’s an otherwise-yet-undiscovered species he found, if it’s a hybrid between two different monstera varieties, or if it’s a mutation of Monstera deliciosa (or another species),' Justin explains.
Whatever the case, it's an undeniably striking unusual houseplant to add to your indoor garden, with slender leaves and fenestrations that give it a unique-yet-recognizable silhouette – you can also find 'Burle Marx Flame' available to purchase at Lowe's.
Justin Hancock is a Costa Farms horticulturist with over 25 years in the industry. A plant enthusiast and educator, he has a degree in horticultural science and has worked in garden centers and botanical gardens, as a garden designer, and in garden publishing (including at Better Homes and Gardens). He has experience gardening across the country, from Minnesota to Oregon to Miami. Justin is also co-host of the Costa Farms podcast Plant Rx.
Its Signature Look
'Fun fact: The first slit that develops in the leaf is nicknamed the lobster-claw leaf by many plant parents because of its unique appearance,' says Justin
'As the plant matures, the leaves go from narrow and lance-shaped to heart-shaped with deep cuts, giving the foliage its signature flame-like look,' Justin describes.
Just like other monsteras, this foliar transformation comes with maturity. But, if your monstera lacks fenestrations, Justin says it's down to improper growing conditions.
'Good growing conditions are key – the happier it is, the faster it will grow and the more quickly its leaves will develop the fenestrations,' he says.
A Good Choice for Beginners
These plants can cope with short period of drought, adapt to partial shade, and are slow-growing, making them low-maintenance
While a unique variety like the 'Burle Marx Flame' may seem daunting at first, Justin assures it's just as straightforward as caring for any other monstera.
'It likes lots of light (a bright spot, within about three feet of an unobstructed east or west-facing window is ideal), consistent watering (let the top half of the potting mix dry out in between), average household temperatures, and average to above-average household humidity,' he describes.
To avoid common indoor plant mistakes with this monstera, use a soil moisture meter (like this one from Amazon) to check when the soil has dried sufficiently.
You can likewise increase humidity levels for indoor plants with a pebble humidity tray (from Amazon) or a plant mister (from Walmart).
Having said that, Justin notes 'Burle Marx Flame' has leathery leaves that give it more drought tolerance than other tender types of monstera (like Monstera adansonii), making it a great choice for busy or forgetful houseplant owners.
'Like most houseplants, it’s also best to keep it away from hot or cold drafts,' Justin adds.
'It is a climbing plant also, so it will appreciate a sturdy support to grow up on (like this moss pole from Amazon),' he advises.
FAQs
How Do You Propagate a 'Burle Marx Flame' Monstera?
You can multiply a 'Burle Marx Flame' monstera using the same method as regular monstera propagation. Take stem cuttings with at least one or two leaf lodes, remove the lower leaves, and pop them in either water or a well-draining potting mix. You can then use methods to speed up houseplant propagation, such as using a heat mat (like this one from Walmart).
Over time, you may find your 'Burle Marx Flame' monstera becomes a little wild in its growth. To help tame it, read our guide on how to train an overgrown monstera.
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Shop Houseplant Accessories
This liquid fertilizer is a special blend of nutrients to support monstera plant growth. Dilute with water to apply.
These blue ceramic planters have drainage holes and saucers to aid moisture management. They come in a set of 2.
Use these pebble humidity trays to boost humidity levels for the moisture-loving plants in your collection. Simply keep water levels topped up.
