The variegated Swiss cheese plant Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’ has broad dark green and brilliant white leaves that are a joy to behold. A rare and expensive houseplant is the Monstera ‘Albo Variegata.’ It’s difficult to keep an eye on this unusual green-white variegated Monstera. To photosynthesize properly, the Monstera Variegata needs more light. It is a slow grower that requires more light to photosynthesize.
Variegated Monstera plants draw a lot of attention. Because pure white leaf variegation is exceptionally rare in nature, the Monstera ‘Albo Variegata’ is very coveted and one of the most costly plants. It’s also difficult to spread. But, seeing photographs of a white variegated Monstera makes it easy to appreciate the look of this Swiss cheese plant.
You’ll discover out what it takes to grow a huge split-leaf variegated Monstera plant as well as how to care for the Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata.’
What is Monstera Albo (Monstera Albo Variegata)
The Monstera deliciosa, a massive tropical blooming plant found in Central and South America, is known as the ‘Monstera Albo’ variegated plant. Large glossy heart-shaped leaves characterize the variegated ‘Monstera Albo. Between 10″ and 35″ (25 – 90 cm) long and up to 30″ (75 cm) broad, the white and green variegated leaves may grow.
As a tropical houseplant, the Monstera ‘Albo Variegata’ is popular. The vine-leaved leathery-leafed plant grows to be between 6.5 and 10 feet (2 and 3 m) tall when growing indoors in pots. The lobed leaves of young Monstera deliciosa plants aren’t present. With age, the lobes and holes in the face develop gradually.
The white patterns on the heart-shaped lobed leaves of the Monstera deliciosa Variegata make it easy to recognize. White streaks of creamy-white paint look like splashes on several of the dark-green glossy leaves. Half of the leaves on the most magnificent variegated monstera plants are snow-white.
The plant’s name, Monstera deliciosa, alludes to its enormous size while also alluding to the edible fruit that it produces. The Monstera deliciosa has aerial roots and is a kind of epiphyte plant. Long stem-like growths take in moisture and nutrients from the environment.
The flowers of the Monstera Albo are rare, but they do bloom. The flowers are spathe-like and have a white spadix blossom, as are all arum plants (Araceae). Monstera deliciosa grows to be between 4 and 6 inches (10 and 15 cm) tall.
Fruit salad plant, monster fruit, Mexican breadfruit, and split-leaf philodendron are some of the other popular names for Monstera deliciosa. It’s important to keep in mind that Monstera and Philodendron are two distinct plant species.
What is Variegated Monstera?
Variegation on monstera deliciosa is responsible for the mottled beauty of its lobed leaves. Variegated plants’ leaves have distinct zones of color throughout them. Irregular patterns or a whole portion of the leaf might appear as a result of this. The primary variegation color is white with the Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata.’ In nature, the incidence of true variegation is uncommon. Natural occurrences of it may be found in tropical rainforests, where many tropical houseplants originate.
The lack of green pigments known as chlorophyll in the plant tissue causes variegation. This is possible as a result of cell mutation. Variegation comes in two different forms. Variegation is inherited (genetic) in one species, whereas it is acquired (chimeric) in the other. The plant’s cells contain the two types of tissue required for true variegation, which is inherited variegation.
Genetic variegation, such as that seen in the plant Variegated varieties, including Variegated Monstera Albo, protects the mutation. This allows you to grow green shoots and seeds from these plants, which means you can clone them. The new variegated ‘Monstera Albo’ plants then display the white variegation.
It’s more difficult to grow Monstera plants with variegation caused by random mutations. Since they lack enough chlorophyll, the propagated stems are often weaker, and the new plants eventually perish. Is it possible to turn a normal monstera variegated? Nature’s random variegation is extremely uncommon.
There is a one in 100,000 chance that your typical Monstera deliciosa will transform into a variegated Monstera albo. A randomly variegated monstera is more likely to lose its pattern and turn green, rather than vice versa.
Low light, temperature extremes, or the production of too much chlorophyll by a portion of the plant are additional causes for variegation to revert and turn green. Consider if you see variegation on a regular Monstera deliciosa. In this situation, it’s probable that your houseplants are suffering from a sickness or other problem.
Why the Variegated Monstera Albo is Hard to Find
The Variegated Monstera Deliciosa is a coveted and costly houseplant that requires special care. Moreover, propagation of white variegated monstera plants is difficult. The chlorophyll levels in the Monstera Albo have been reduced, resulting in a creamy-white pattern. As a result, monstera development takes longer and requires greater expertise.
Why Are Variegated Monsteras So Expensive?
Variegated monstera plants may cost you an arm and a leg because to high demand and rarity. Variegated Monstera deliciosa and Monstera borsigiana leaf cuttings can sell for hundreds of dollars because they are rooted. Thousands of dollars may be spent on whole monstera plants with white and green foliage.
How To Find a Variegated Monstera
Looking online is the simplest way to get a stunning ‘Monstera Albo.’ Variegated monstera plants are popular on social media, with many groups dedicated to them. Variegated plants or rooted leaf cuttings are also sold on websites such as Etsy and eBay, as well as some online plant stores.
Make sure there is some white and green on the stem and leaf when purchasing a suitable white variegated monstera to buy. Leaf cuttings that are completely white should be avoided. Despite their beauty, the plant will struggle to mature due to a lack of chlorophyll.
Other types of Variegated Monstera
What if you want a variegated monstera but can’t afford one with yellow or lime coloration? Try some other varieties! In that scenario, various monsteras have fascinating variegation on their leaves. Here are a few variegated monsteras that you may want to consider.
Monstera borsigiana: Compared to the Monstera deliciosa, a variegated Monstera borsigiana has reduced leaves and faster development. Like a miniature and less expensive version of the Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo,’ the “Monstera borsigiana” ‘Albo’ has lobed leaves with creamy white variegation.
Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’: Light white to yellow speckled variegation may be found on the Thai Constellation monstera. Whole leaf lobes can turn yellow or white as the plant develops.
Monstera deliciosa ‘Aurea’: The golden lime-yellow variegation on dark green lobed leaves distinguishes the variegated monstera ‘Aurea’ from the deliciosa species.
How to Care for Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’
Grow the white variegated monstera plant in bright, indirect sunlight to care for Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata.’ When the soil on the monstera albo starts to dry, water it with aerated, well-draining potting soil. With relatively high humidity, grow between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). Now, let’s take a closer look at how to maintain the vivid variegation of ‘Monstera Albo.’
Monstera Albo Light Requirements
In indirect bright light, grow Monstera Deliciosa Albo Variegata. On south-facing windows, you may promote variegation by placing the monstera within a couple of feet of a window but behind a sheer curtain. If the monstera grows in low-light situations, leaf variegation might fade. To increase variegation, you may also use artificial lighting. Keep your plant from direct sunlight to ensure it thrives. In direct, strong sunlight, the white leaf areas burn quickly.
The Best Soil for Growing Variegated Monstera Houseplants
An epiphytic plant that thrives on loose, aerated soil with excellent drainage, Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’ To make the finest potting mix for an indoor variegated monstera, combine one part ordinary houseplant soil, one part orchid bark, and one part perlite. A chunky monstera soil combination that retains adequate moisture but does not get soggy is essential for Monstera plants to thrive. Roots rot quickly in waterlogged soil, which is not something you want with an expensive ‘Monstera Albo.’
How to Water Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’
Whenever the potting mix dries out, water a ‘Monstera Albo. Watering the plant ideally should wait until the top 2″ or 3″ (5–7.5 cm) has dried. During the growing season, you may have to water the Monstera deliciosa as frequently as once a week. During the winter, keep watering to a minimum and only water when the ground is thirsty.
Soaking the soil thoroughly is the best way to water houseplants like ‘Albo Variegata.’ Before returning to the tray, wait until all the excess water has drained from the pot’s drainage holes. Roots are not allowed to sit in soggy soil because of this watering technique of drench and dry, which provides enough hydration.
Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’ Temperature Requirements
Between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C), ‘Monstera Albo’ thrives. Don’t place your exotic houseplant near hot air vents or in chilly drafts. The plant may be stressed by fluctuations in temperature, and the variegation may even return. A variegated monstera can only survive at a temperature of 50°F (10°C).
Humidity Needs to Grow White Variegated Monstera Indoors
Relative humidity of 60% is preferred by Monstera deliciosa ‘Monstera Albo.’ In comparison to regular, all-green monsteras, variegated monsteras need greater humidity. By placing the monstera pot on a pebble tray half-filled with water, you may raise humidity.
To guarantee adequate air moisture levels, top off the tray on a regular basis. Because it doesn’t provide enough humidity, misting leaves of a variegated monstera isn’t required. You can, however, use a damp cloth to clean the white and green variegated leaves once a week if you want to take good care of them.
‘Monstera Albo Variegata’ Growth Rate
The Monstera deliciosa and Monstera borsigiana species are examples of variegated monsteras that grow slowly. Photosynthesis will be hampered by the lack of chlorophyll due to the white leaf variegation. In bright light and occasional watering, A Monstera deliciosa will grow faster. In ideal indoor circumstances, the maximum growth is usually 6.5 to 10 feet (2 to 3 meters). A mature height for a ‘Monstera Albo,’ however, may take many years.
How to Fertilize Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’
To keep your ‘Monstera Albo’ in good condition, use a diluted balanced houseplant fertilizer once a month. In the spring, begin applying a 20-20-20 NPK fertilizer diluted to half strength. Until the end of summer, apply every four weeks. Do not fertilize until the plant slows down in the autumn and winter.
Pruning Monstera Albo Variegata
To keep balanced variegation, pruning a variegated monstera is required. You’ll need to prune off pure white or pure green leaves if they start to sprout. Look for the leaves with even variegation, which is a blend of white and green, starting from the vine’s tip. To keep the vine growing well, trim it to this point.
How to Propagate Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’
Stem cuttings are used to propagate Monstera deliciosa. Growing more unusual monsteras with white and green leaves is a great way to propagate a variegated monstera. Take a cutting node to propagate a monstera. The leaf stem should be the entire length of the vine, as well as a portion of it. Near the vine, you should also make sure there is an eye-like mark. The new plant will be planted here. Place the stem cutting in a pitcher of water to root a new variegated monstera.
New white roots should emerge after a few weeks. After that, transfer the rooted cutting to a pot containing the appropriate soil. Instead, you may dig the trench straight into the ground, where it will grow. To encourage humidity and keep the soil moist, secure a plastic bag over the pot. The freshly propagated ‘Monstera Albo’ will be ready to repot after a few weeks.
How to Repot Variegated Monstera Albo
Eventually, a variegated monstera must be moved to a bigger pot. Roots protruding from the container, sluggish development, and weak water flow when you water the plant are all indications that it’s time to repot. Pick a bigger pot that is either one or two sizes larger than what you have now.
Choose a stronger terracotta pot to help support your moss pole and huge white and green monstera leaves if your ‘Monstera Variegata’ requires assistance.
Is Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’ Toxic?
Cats and dogs should not be planted with monstera plants, such as the ‘Monstera Albo.’ Monstera deliciosa contains toxic insoluble calcium oxalates, according to the ASPCA. Oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing may all occur after you consume portions of monstera plants.
According to doctors, if people consume the Swiss cheese plant, it might also cause mouth burning and discomfort, as well as swelling.
Pests Affecting Monstera Albo Variegata Growth
Common houseplant pests that can destroy a beautiful white variegated monstera include spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. By combining 2 tsp. of neem oil with water, you can make a neem oil solution. 1 tsp. of Neem oil A spray bottle should have dish soap and a quart (1 liter) of water. To get rid of flies, thoroughly douse both sides of the white and green foliage with neem oil. For optimum results, use every week.
Diseases Affecting Variegated Monstera Houseplants
If you overwater variegated monstera plants, they will develop root rot. Roots rot and soften due to an overabundance of soil moisture. The variegated plant is deprived of vital nutrients by this star. It may also cause fungal infections. Only water ‘Monstera Variegata’ when the top layer of soil is dry to avoid root rot. Underwatering is more forgiving than overwatering for monsters.
You should repot the plant to change the soil and inspect the root damage if you notice that stems near the soil line are becoming brown and mushy. Before repotting, trim off any rotting roots. You may need to take leaf cuttings from the monstera vine’s healthy portion to develop new, thriving plants if root damage is significant.
FAQs — Variegated Monstera Care
Providing a variegated monstera plant with enough sunlight is the most important aspect of maintaining it vibrant and healthy. Nonetheless, growth of Monstera deliciosa Variegata might be affected by a few additional factors.
How often does Monstera grow new leaves?
During the growing season, monstera plants typically create new leaves every four to six weeks. Variegated monstera plants, on the other hand, tend to grow at a slower pace than standard monstera plants. As a result, you might only get a few new leaves each year depending on the growing conditions.
It’s critical to be patient if you don’t see new development. When the soil begins to dry, ensure that your variegated monstera receives enough sunlight and water.
Why is my Monstera Albo not splitting?
The leaves of Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’ take a long time to split. Without any splits or lobes, young leaves are heart-shaped. Variegated monstera leaves take longer to break than ordinary monstera plants because of their slower development. Specific growing conditions are required for monstera leaves to develop the distinctive Swiss cheese plant look.
Firstly, keep your variegated monstera plants in a cheerful, bright area but out of the direct rays of sunlight. Second, ensure that the plant gets enough water to keep its roots moist but not soggy by watering it occasionally. Third, you’ll need a lot of patience.
Should I cut off brown Monstera leaves?
Any monstera leaves that start to yellow and turn brown should be trimmed off. Removing ungood leaves helps prevent infection and focuses energy on developing healthy foliage, in addition to improving the look of the plant.