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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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 |
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.
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
Propagating Monstera Deliciosa Albo
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 a Monstera Deliciosa Albo
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.
C. 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.
Monstera Deliciosa Albo 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
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
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.
Discolored or Damaged Leaves
- Causes (sunburn, pests, etc.): One of the most frustrating things is when those beautiful, variegated leaves start to turn yellow, brown, or develop unsightly spots and markings. This can happen for a few different reasons – too much direct sun exposure can cause sunburn, and pesky pests like spider mites or thrips may take up residence and start munching on the foliage. I actually had a nasty spider mite infestation on one of my albos last year, and let me tell you, it was not a pretty sight.
- Remedies: But the good news is, with a little vigilance and the right approach, you can usually get these issues under control. If you suspect sunburn, simply move your plant to a spot with brighter, indirect light. And for pest infestations, I recommend doing a thorough inspection and treatment with an eco-friendly insecticide or insecticidal soap. Quarantining the affected plant is also a smart idea to prevent the spread.
Loss of Variegation
- Potential reasons: Another common challenge is when that gorgeous white and green variegation starts to fade or disappear altogether. This can happen if the plant isn’t getting enough light, or if the soil, water, or fertilizer conditions aren’t quite right. I remember one of my albos went through a phase where the new growth was coming in totally green – it was troubling, I found moving it to a spot where it could receive more light did the trick!
- Maintaining variegation: The key to keeping that spectacular variegation is really all about providing the perfect balance of light, nutrients, and the right care. Make sure your albo is situated in a spot with bright, indirect light, use a nutrient-rich potting mix, and be extra cautious with watering to avoid stressing the plant. And if you do notice the variegation starting to diminish, don’t panic – with some adjustments, you can usually get it back on track.
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 About Monstera Albo
No, it’s uncommon to witness blooms indoors. The occasional appearance of its tubular greenish flower (spadix), surrounded by a white spathe, is more elusive than the plant itself.
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.
Conclusion
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!
- 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/ ↩︎
