Monstera albo variegata, a false philodendron with almost white foliage
While monstera adansonii 'Mint was created by science, Monstera deliciosa albo variegata is the work of Mother Nature. This Monstera deliciosa hybrid owes its broad white variegation to a spontaneous genetic mutation.
How to recognize Monstera deliciosa albo variegata?
A climbing perennial, Monstera albo variegata grows up to 20 meters tall in its natural habitat, the tropical forests of Central America. In pots and indoors, its growth will be more modest. But its vines can still exceed two meters in length!
The plant clings to trees or to its support by means of aerial roots. Located on the stem above the nodes, they also help it absorb ambient humidity.
The heart-shaped leaves are smooth and fleshy. Some measure over 30 centimetres in all directions. In addition to their fenestrations, the green leaf blades display broad white variegation. Some parts of the leaf may even be completely immaculate!
Monstera albo variegata can be distinguished from Monstera deliciosa variegata or 'Monstera Thai Constellation' by its pure white colour and the size of the variegation in relation to the size of the leaf. Monstera deliciosa variegata has speckled leaf blades with finer variegation. In monstera 'Thai Constellation the variegation is more green, cream or pale yellow.
Monstera albo variegata flowers. Its flowers have the typical shape of Araceae inflorescences. They consist of a cream, white or light-green spathe and a yellow spadix.
Keep your Monstera albo variegata away from pets. The plant is toxic. Its sap contains calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, they can cause digestive problems. It can also cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin.
Our maintenance tips
Monstera albo variegata are not difficult to care for. Regular watering, a little moisture, a pot optimized for drainage and a little fertilizer are all that's needed.
Watering
Monstera albo variegata needs a regular supply of water. But, like many plants, the plant cannot tolerate excess. Check that the potting soil has dried on the surface (two to three centimetres) before watering. If this is the case, use non-calcareous water at room temperature. You only need to moisten the root ball, not the soil.
Don't forget to drain off any stagnant water in the saucer or planter. It could rot the roots.
Spray
Monstera albo variegata plants require a high level of humidity. Spray foliage with non-calcareous water, preferably rainwater.
Repotting
In spring, transfer your Monstera deliciosa albo variegata to a larger pot, so that it can continue to grow.
Monstera albo variegata likes to be cramped. Re-pot only when the roots begin to emerge from the pot.
In a pierced terracotta pot, pour a layer of clay balls. Add a mixture of houseplant potting soil and perlite.
Clean the root ball of your Monstera deliciosa albo variegata by removing the remains of the previous substrate. Place your specimen in the center of the pot and cover with potting soil. To allow the roots to breathe, pack gently as you go along.
Monstera albo variegata if you like stakes for hanging, don't hesitate to supply one.
Fertilization
You can stimulate the development of your plant during its growth phase, in spring and summer, with fertilizer.
To promote the growth of your monstera albo variegata, use a green plant fertilizer.
Cleaning
Dust prevents leaves from absorbing light and slows photosynthesis. You can use a brush or feather duster to clean the foliage.
Pinch
Pinch your Monstera deliciosa albo variegata during its growing season.
There may be several reasons why you want to deadhead your Monstera deliciosa albo variegata: to contain its growth, to multiply the plant or to stimulate its development.
Use your fingers or sharp, disinfected secateurs to cut between two knots.
Wear gloves when handling your plant.
Wear gloves when handling your plant.
Cutting
Cutting is carried out during the strong growth phase, generally in spring and early summer.
Locate a node on the stem with at least one leaf and aerial roots. Cut off two centimetres below with clean, sharp secateurs.
Soak your cutting in a glass of water at room temperature. Only the stem end should be immersed. Change the water every three days to keep it clear.
Place your cutting in a bright spot away from direct sunlight.
Place your cutting in a bright spot away from direct sunlight.
Diseases / Threats
Information
Family | Araceae - Araceae |
Type | Monstera - Monstera |
Species | Monstera deliciosa - Monstera deliciosa |
Lifecycle | Perennial |
Foliage | Evergreen |
Exposures | |
Substrats | |
Planting method |
In pots |
Categories | |
Tags |
Edible fruit Beginner Large pot Increvable Toxic |
Origin |
Central America |
Hardiness (USDA) | 10a |
Leaf color |
|
Flower colors |
|
Discover plants from the same family