As a lifelong plant enthusiast, I've always been drawn to the unique and rare. And let me tell you, the monstera albo is about as special as they come. This subspecies of the popular monstera deliciosa is prized for its stunning white and green variegation - those signature swiss cheese-patterned leaves are simply breathtaking. It's no wonder these plants have become such coveted, big-bucks gems among plant collectors and indoor gardeners.
But whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting to build your indoor jungle, I'm here to share everything you need to know to find and care for your very own monstera albo. From meeting their light and humidity needs to understanding their tricky propagation, there's a lot to cover before adding one of these beauties to your plant family. So let's dive in, shall we?
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Jump to:
- What is a monstera deliciosa albo?
- Quick glance: Monstera albo care essentials
- Taking care of your albo
- Can your monstera albo bloom?
- Insights from Alana @rootandtootin: Caring for monstera albo
- How to propagate
- Types of monstera albo
- Acquiring one for yourself!
- Resources
- Dealing with pests and problems
- Potting and repotting your albo
- Frequently asked questions
- References:
What is a monstera deliciosa albo?
Botanical name and classification
The monstera deliciosa albo is a subspecies, or variegated variety, of the popular monstera deliciosa plant. Its botanical name is Monstera Deliciosa 'Albo Variegata'.1
Distinguishing features of the Albo variety
- Unique white/cream variegation pattern: The defining characteristic of the monstera albo is its stunning white and green variegation. Random splotches and patterns of creamy white or pale variegation are scattered across the plant's iconic, fenestrated leaves.
- Differences from other Monstera varieties: Unlike the regular monstera deliciosas which is solid green, the albo variety lacks chlorophyll in certain leaf sections, giving it this one-of-a-kind aesthetic. This unique variegation sets it apart from other monstera subspecies.
Note: As a fellow dog parent, it's crucial to highlight that Monstera Albo plants are toxic to both pets and humans if consumed.2
Photo courtesy of Alana @rootandtootin
Quick glance: Monstera albo care essentials
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| A. Lighting Needs | 1. Bright, indirect light 2. Avoiding direct sunlight |
| B. Watering | 1. Allowing soil to partially dry between waterings 2. Avoiding overwatering |
| C. Humidity and Temperature | 1. Preference for warm, humid conditions 2. Protecting from cold drafts |
| D. Soil and Potting | 1. Well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix 2. Importance of proper drainage |
Now let's explore each of these care requirements in detail.
Taking care of your albo
I've grown Monstera Albos for over five years now, and here's what I've learned about keeping them happy. Just last month, my oldest Albo put out a stunning half-moon leaf - but it took quite a bit of trial and error to get there.
Light Requirements:
These plants need bright, filtered light to maintain their striking variegation. I keep mine about 6 feet from a south-facing window, behind a sheer curtain. Too much direct sun will burn those beautiful white patches, which I learned the hard way when I first started growing them.
Temperature & Humidity:
Monstera Albos grow best between 65-80°F. They aren't cold-hardy at all - I lost a leaf to cold damage when mine got too close to an AC vent. For humidity, aim for 60% or higher. I group mine with other tropical plants and run a humidifier nearby.
Soil Mix:
The right soil mix makes all the difference. I use:
- 40% indoor potting soil
- 30% orchid bark
- 20% perlite
- 10% charcoal
This mix hits the sweet spot between moisture retention and drainage. When I switched to this blend, my plant's root system really took off.
Watering Schedule:
Let the top 2 inches of soil dry between waterings. In my experience, these plants are much more forgiving of underwatering than overwatering. During summer, I usually water once every 7-10 days. In winter, it's closer to every 2 weeks.
Fertilizing:
These plants need regular nutrients to maintain those stunning white patches, but you don't need to spend a fortune on fancy fertilizers.
Store-Bought Options: A basic balanced liquid fertilizer (like 10-10-10) works great when diluted to half strength. Apply it monthly during spring and summer, then stop when fall hits.
DIY Kitchen Scrap Fertilizer: I've had great success using homemade fertilizer on my Monstera Albo. I started experimenting with this after seeing amazing results on my regular houseplants. If you want to learn how to make your own natural fertilizer from kitchen scraps, check out my Natural Fertilizer for Indoor Plants post. Just remember to dilute homemade fertilizer more than you would a commercial one - I use a 1:4 ratio for my Albo.
Warning Signs: Watch your plant's reaction to fertilizer. If you see brown leaf tips or edges, you're probably overfeeding. When this happened to one of my plants, I flushed the soil with plain water and scaled back the feeding schedule.
Quick Tips:
- Never fertilize a dry plant
- Skip fertilizing for at least a month after repotting
- If your plant isn't putting out new growth, hold off on fertilizing
- Always water thoroughly after applying fertilizer
This approach to fertilizing has worked great for me - my Albo produces 2-3 new leaves every few months during growing season, each with beautiful variegation.
Pruning:
Pruning isn't complicated, but there's more to it than just snipping off leaves. After growing these plants for years, I've developed a simple approach that works well.
When to Prune: Spring and summer are the best times to prune your Albo. The plant recovers much faster during these growing seasons. I learned this after making the mistake of pruning mine in winter - it took forever to bounce back.
What to Remove:
- Dead or yellowing leaves - they're just using up the plant's energy
- Damaged leaves - especially if they show signs of disease
- Leggy stems - if your plant is getting stretched out
- Stems with leaves that have lost most of their variegation
Tools and Technique: Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. I sanitize mine with rubbing alcohol before each use. Make your cuts right above a node (those little bumps on the stem where new growth emerges). Cutting at an angle helps prevent water from sitting on the cut surface.
Pro tip: Save those pruned pieces if they have nodes - they're perfect for propagating new plants. One pruning session last summer gave me three new plants that I shared with friends.
After Pruning Care: Give your plant some time to adjust after pruning. I skip fertilizing for about two weeks after a pruning session and make sure to keep the humidity up. Watch the cut areas - if you see any browning or unusual discoloration, it might signal an infection and needs attention right away.
A Note on Growth Rate - Don't expect quick growth - these plants are naturally slow growers. My largest leaf took about 6 weeks to fully unfurl. The white portions can't photosynthesize, which means slower overall growth compared to regular Monstera Deliciosa.
Bonus Growing Tip: Boost your Monstera Albo's leafy growth by providing a moss pole. This mimics its natural habitat, encouraging upward growth and larger leaves. Choose a tall pole, securely place it next to your plant, and guide the stems to climb. With proper positioning and care, your Monstera Albo will thrive, showcasing stunning, oversized foliage.
Can your monstera albo bloom?
I'll be honest - in all my years growing Monstera Albos indoors, I've never seen one bloom. But it can happen, though it's about as rare as finding an Albo at your local garden center.
What Does the Bloom Look Like?
The flower isn't what most people expect. Instead of petals, you get a greenish spike (called a spadix) wrapped in a white leaf-like sheath (the spathe). It's interesting, but not nearly as striking as those gorgeous variegated leaves.
Getting Your Albo to Bloom
Your plant needs to be mature - we're talking several years old. Even then, the conditions have to be just right:
- Temperatures between 79-86°F
- High humidity (60-80%)
- Lots of bright light, including some direct sun in winter
- Consistent fertilizing during growing season
A greenhouse gives you the best shot at seeing flowers. But don't stress if your plant never blooms - these plants are grown for their stunning leaves, not their flowers. I've seen thriving, decades-old specimens that have never produced a single bloom.
Insights from Alana @rootandtootin: Caring for monstera albo
I wanted to hear from another plant enthusiast about her thoughts on caring for her Monstera Albo, so I reached out to Alana @rootandtootin, a fellow Massachusetts resident and plant enthusiast with over 120 houseplants. Here's what Alana shared with me:
"I got my Monstera Albo about two years ago from a local plant seller that I trusted and had purchased from previously. It was a bit of a splurge but I think it was worth it to spend a little extra to get a top cut from a highly variegated mother plant. After about a year, I took it off the moss pole because it was only using it for support and I redirected the aerial roots back into the soil. I keep mine in ambient humidity because it didn’t make a big difference to put it in my Ikea greenhouse. It lives under a Soltech Aspect light so it gets plenty of bright light and hasn’t burned. I recently repotted it into Molly’s Aroid Mix which it has been loving. Right now I’m using Neptune’s organic Fertilizer which is a little smelly even when diluted but my plants absolutely love it. Once I started fertilizing again for spring, it began working on new leaves almost immediately!"
I asked Alana what she finds most interesting about Monstera Albo and she shared: "In terms of what I find interesting… probably just that each leaf is unique like a snowflake!" I love this, and it's so true!
Photo courtesy of Alana @rootandtootin
How to propagate
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly way to add a monstera albo to your plant collection, propagating your own from stem cuttings is definitely the way to go. While these rare plants can be quite pricey when purchased fully grown, successfully propagating new albo plants from existing ones allows you to expand your collection without breaking the bank.
Stem cuttings
- Selecting suitable cuttings: When taking cuttings from your monstera albo, look for healthy, mature stems that have at least one node and aerial root. These are the key elements that will allow the cutting to root and develop into a new plant.
- Rooting in water or soil: You can propagate monstera albo cuttings by placing them in either water or a well-draining potting mix. Just be sure to keep the soil or water consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as the cuttings become established.
Maintaining variegation
- Challenges of propagating variegated plants: One important thing to note is that the variegation pattern of the monstera albo is naturally occurring, rather than genetically stable. This means there's no guarantee that the new plants propagated from cuttings will maintain the exact same striking white and green variegation as the parent plant.
- Tips for successful propagation: To give your monstera albo cuttings the best chance of retaining their variegation, make sure to select cuttings from the most heavily variegated parts of the parent plant. Providing the right lighting conditions is also crucial, as too much direct sun can cause loss of variegation over time.
Types of monstera albo
Explore different varieties, each boasting its own distinctive shape and variegated patterns.
| Variety | Description |
|---|---|
| Monstera Marbled Albo | The rarest variety, featuring a unique leaf pattern with distinct splotches of white and green with deeply fenestrated leaves. |
| Monstera adansonii 'Albo Variegata' | A very rare find, with numerous holes patterning each cream and green split leaf. |
| Monstera deliciosa 'Albo Borsigiana' | Boasts large, mostly white leaves accented with splashes of green. |
| Monstera adansonii f. variegata 'Variegated Laniata Albo' | Tri-colored leaves in dark green, light green, and white, some with a glossy finish. |
| Monstera deliciosa 'Albo Variegata' | Features a classic deep green and creamy white variegation pattern. |
Monstera deliciosa 'Albo Borsigiana'
Acquiring one for yourself!
As you've probably gathered by now, the monstera deliciosa albo is not your average indoor plant. These stunning, variegated beauties are in incredibly high demand, which explains their often hefty price tag. But for those patient growers out there, there are ways to add an albo to your collection without spending big bucks.
Reasons for high prices
- Rarity and high demand: Monstera albos are relatively rare compared to the regular green monstera deliciosa. Their unique variegation pattern makes them a highly sought-after prize among plant enthusiasts, driving up their market value.
- Challenges in propagation: Propagating monstera albos can also be tricky, as there's no guarantee that cuttings will maintain the exact same variegation as the parent plant.
Sources for purchasing
- Local nurseries and garden centers: Your best bet for finding a monstera albo may be to regularly check your local independent nurseries and garden centers. While they may sell out quickly, these brick-and-mortar shops occasionally have these rare gems in stock.
- Online specialty plant retailers: For a wider selection, consider shopping with online plant retailers that specialize in unique and hard-to-find species. Sites like Etsy are a great resource, with individual sellers often offering monstera albo cuttings for a more budget-friendly price point.
Tip: Whenever I'm at Lowes or Home Depot, I make sure to check out the plant department. Sometimes, you might just stumble upon a Monstera Albo at a lower price, as they occasionally make their way into these big box stores' stock.
Considerations when buying
- Verifying authenticity: When shopping for a monstera albo, be sure to carefully vet the seller and ensure you're getting a genuine, properly identified plant. Ask questions and request photos to confirm the variegation pattern.
- Inspecting for pests and health: Thoroughly inspect any monstera albo you're considering purchasing, whether in-person or through photos. Look for signs of pests, damage, or disease that could compromise the plant's long-term health and vitality.
- Understanding return policies: Before making a purchase, review the seller's return and exchange policies carefully. Reputable retailers should offer some form of guarantee or warranty in case the plant arrives damaged or fails to thrive under your care. This can provide valuable peace of mind when investing in a high-value plant especially when purchasing online.
Resources
Please note that the information provided in this chart is for reference purposes only. Buyers are encouraged to reach out to the respective retailers directly for additional details or inquiries regarding the availability, condition, and purchasing process of Monstera Albo plants.
This chart provides key information about different retailers selling Monstera Albo plants, including their price, shipping information, plant size, and any available reviews or ratings.
Leaf Cuttings:
| Retailer Name/Reviews/Ratings | Price | Shipping Information | Plant Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pretty in Green ★★★★☆ | $169 | Free shipping. Lower 48 States of U.S. ONLY All Sales are Final. | Medium - with leaves. Exact plant is featured. Ships bare root. |
| New York City Succulents ★★★★★ | $94.99 | $10.82 flat rate | Small plant - 1 leaf -All cuttings are in a sphagnum medium and would fit a 4" growers pot. |
| Exotropical NA - Satisfaction Guaranteed | $99-$199 | Free shipping using code: FS600 | Small to medium - 1 leaf cutting or 3 leaf cutting available. (The Plants are in 1 and 3 medium size leaves and will be shipped without pots and soil.) |
Nodes/Wet stick:
| Retailer Name/ Reviews/Ratings | Price | Shipping Information | Plant Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flower of Life Inc ★★★★★ | $64.50 | Free shipping. Eligible for Return, Refund or Replacement within 30 days of receipt | Monstera Albo Variegated Node with High Variegation White Tiger Wet Stick (Wet stick is a part of the plant stem with node but without leaves.) |
Tip: Aside from these online merchants regularly check your local independent nurseries and garden centers. If Monstera Albo's are not in stock you may be able to have them order one for you.
Photo courtesy of Alana @rootandtootin
Dealing with pests and problems
You know, as much as I adore my monstera albo, I'll admit there have been a few bumps in the road when it comes to keeping this diva thriving. But hey, that's all part of the learning process, right? Let's dive into some of the common issues you might encounter and how to tackle them.
Common pests
These plants can attract several unwanted visitors:
- Spider mites (they love those big leaves)
- Mealybugs (check under the leaves and in leaf joints)
- Scale (look like little brown bumps on stems)
- Thrips (they cause silvery patches on leaves)
- Fungus gnats (those annoying little flies in your soil)
Prevention and Treatment: I keep neem oil spray ready - it's my go-to treatment for most pest problems. Mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil and 1 teaspoon of dish soap in a quart of water. Spray all parts of the plant, including under the leaves.
For serious infestations, I've had success with:
- Isolating the affected plant
- Wiping down leaves with diluted rubbing alcohol
- Treating with insecticidal soap
- Following up weekly until all signs of pests are gone
Leaf problems and solutions
Yellow Leaves: Usually means overwatering or poor drainage. I cut back on watering when I see yellow leaves and check that the soil isn't staying wet too long.
Brown Spots: Could be sunburn or low humidity. My Albo got brown spots last summer when it was too close to the window. Moving it back 6 feet and running a humidifier fixed the issue.
Brown Leaf Tips: Often caused by low humidity or too much fertilizer. Try increasing humidity before changing anything else.
Loss of Variegation: If new leaves are coming in mostly green, your plant needs more light. I moved one of mine closer to a bright window (but not in direct sun), and the next leaf came out beautifully variegated.
Root rot
This is serious but fixable if caught early. Signs include:
- Soft, mushy stems
- Yellowing leaves
- Wet soil that doesn't dry out
- Foul smell from the soil
If you suspect root rot, check the roots right away. Remove any black or mushy roots, treat with hydrogen peroxide, and repot in fresh soil.
Remember: It's always easier to prevent problems than fix them. Good air circulation, proper watering, and regular inspections go a long way in keeping your Albo healthy.
Potting and repotting your albo
Potting and repotting are crucial aspects of caring for your Monstera Albo. Here's what you need to know:
- Potting:
- Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Use well-draining soil mix to ensure proper aeration and moisture retention.
- Gently remove the plant from its current pot and inspect the roots for any signs of damage or overcrowding.
- Place the plant in the center of the new pot and add moist soil around it, firming it gently to provide stability.
- Optional: Mix in a slow-release fertilizer or incorporate a balanced liquid fertilizer into the soil to provide essential nutrients for growth.
- Water the plant thoroughly and place it in a location with bright, indirect light.
- Repotting:
- Repot your Monstera Albo when it outgrows its current container or if you notice roots circling the pot.
- Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one to allow for growth.
- Follow the same steps for potting as mentioned above.
- Repotting is best done during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Frequently asked questions
Consider cultivating the plant in a climate-controlled greenhouse for optimal conditions. Alternatively, ensure it receives ample bright light (including direct sunlight in winter), maintain warm air temperatures between 79 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and ensure high humidity levels ranging from 60 to 80 percent.
Water your Monstera Albo when the top 1 - 2 inches of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain out of the pot, the albo needs regular watering but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Tip: Keep your Monstera Albo happy and healthy by regularly misting its leaves. This tropical plant thrives in a high humid environment, and misting helps replicate its natural habitat. Aim to mist the leaves every few days, especially during dry periods or when the air in your home is dry. However, avoid misting excessively, as too much moisture can lead to fungal issues. Strike a balance by observing your plant's response and adjusting misting frequency accordingly.
Monstera Albo thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid placing this unique plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves. Not enough light and you may lose some of the variegation.
During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your Monstera Albo monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce fertilization frequency in fall and winter.
Yellow leaves on Monstera Albo can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight. Check the soil moisture levels and adjust watering accordingly, and ensure the plant is receiving appropriate light levels.
Several factors can contribute to slow growth in Monstera Albo, including inadequate light, low humidity levels, improper watering, and reduced photosynthesis due to variegation in the leaves. Ensure your plant is receiving proper care by giving it bright, indirect light, maintain humidity levels between 60-80%, and water appropriately to encourage growth. Additionally, consider providing supplemental lighting if natural light is insufficient to support photosynthesis.
No, they are not the same. While both plants belong to the Monstera genus and boast beautiful split leaves, Monstera Albo plants (Monstera deliciosa 'Albo Variegata') are known for their variegated green and white foliage, whereas Monstera Thai Constellation (Monstera deliciosa 'Thai Constellation') features cream-colored variegation and often has smaller, more irregularly shaped leaves.
And there you have it! Ready to bring some tropical vibes into your indoor space? Just snag a Monstera Deliciosa Albo, its common name is swiss cheese plant and let the magic unfold. It's the perfect addition to your plant collection, whether you're a newbie or a seasoned plant parent. So go ahead, grab one, and let's add some green goodness to your home!
A very special thank to Alana @rootandtootin for sharing her experiences with her Monstera Albo and for her beautiful images. Be sure to check out her instagram to learn more.
Thank you for visiting the blog today! Explore my plant care page for additional tips and information on caring for a variety of plants, including Spider plants, Pothos, Jasmine, African violets, and more!
Happy indoor gardening friends!
References:
- Wiki, E. B. &. (2021, December 11). Monstera albo - EverybodyWiki Bios & Wiki. EverybodyWiki Bios & Wiki. https://en.everybodywiki.com/Monstera_albo ↩︎
- Mahr, Susan. "Swiss-Cheese Plant, Monstera deliciosa." University of Wisconsin – Madison Horticulture Extension. Accessed [insert access date], https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/monstera-deliciosa/ ↩︎
