The Monstera Albo, Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Borsigiana’, is a highly coveted houseplant. Its striking appearance, with large, glossy leaves and distinctive white or cream-colored variegation, makes it a true collector’s item. This natural genetic mutation results in unique patterns where sections of the leaf lack chlorophyll, creating a beautiful contrast against the green foliage. Its visual appeal and rarity contribute to its desirability among plant enthusiasts.
Monstera Albo Care
Light
Monstera Albo thrives in bright, indirect light. Place the plant near an east or north-facing window, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. The white variegated sections are sensitive to direct sunlight and can scorch. Insufficient light leads to smaller leaves, leggy growth, and reduced white variegation.
Watering
The Monstera Albo prefers its soil to dry out partially between waterings to prevent root rot. Water when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s drainage holes, then discard any excess from the saucer.
Soil
A well-draining, airy, and nutrient-rich potting mix is suitable for Monstera Albo. Effective blends include components like orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir to ensure proper drainage and moisture retention. Some mixtures also incorporate peat moss or coco peat, along with natural fertilizers like worm castings, for additional nutrients.
Temperature and Humidity
Monstera Albo prefers warm and humid environments. Optimal temperatures range between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (18-27°C). Maintaining humidity levels of at least 60% is recommended. Methods to increase humidity include using a humidifier, grouping plants together, or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water.
Fertilization
Monstera Albo plants benefit from regular feeding during their active growing season, typically spring and summer. A balanced liquid fertilizer, often diluted to half strength, can be applied monthly or every 2-4 weeks. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped entirely during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows. Flushing the soil with plain water every few months helps prevent excess salt buildup.
Propagating Monstera Albo
Propagating Monstera Albo involves taking stem cuttings. Each cutting should include at least one node and preferably an aerial root. A node is a small bump on the stem where new roots and leaves will develop. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make a cut just below a node.
One common method is water propagation. Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the node is submerged while leaves remain above the waterline. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Place the glass in bright, indirect light to encourage root development. Roots typically form within a few weeks. Once they are at least two to three inches long, transfer the cutting to a well-draining potting mix.
Common Issues with Monstera Albo
Browning Variegation
Browning on the white variegated sections of Monstera Albo leaves is common. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate white areas. Low humidity is another frequent contributor, as white parts lack chlorophyll and dry out easily. Water quality issues, like chlorine, or root system problems can also cause browning. While some browning is natural as leaves age, ensuring proper light, consistent humidity above 50%, and appropriate watering can help minimize it.
Loss of Variegation
Loss of white variegation and production of solid green leaves often indicates insufficient light. The plant may increase chlorophyll production to absorb more light, reverting to green foliage. Pruning is a common strategy to encourage more variegation; cutting back any solid green growth to a more variegated node can prompt the plant to produce new leaves with better patterns. Increasing the intensity of bright, indirect light also helps maintain and encourage variegation.
Pests
Monstera Albo can be susceptible to common pests such as spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Regular inspection of leaves, especially undersides, aids early detection. Treatment options include organic solutions like neem oil or horticultural soap, or targeted chemical treatments. Maintaining adequate humidity also helps deter some pests, such as spider mites, which thrive in drier conditions.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves on a Monstera Albo can signal several underlying issues. Overwatering is a frequent cause, leading to root rot and inhibited nutrient uptake. Conversely, underwatering can also cause yellowing if the plant lacks moisture. Nutrient deficiencies, especially if the plant hasn’t been fertilized regularly, can also cause yellowing. Natural aging is another reason, especially for older, lower leaves that eventually turn yellow and are shed.
Understanding Monstera Albo Rarity and Cost
The Monstera Albo is rare and commands a high price for several reasons. Its variegation results from a genetic mutation, making it less stable and harder to propagate consistently than non-variegated Monsteras. Unstable variegation also makes reliable tissue culture propagation difficult, limiting availability. Its slower growth rate, due to white sections lacking chlorophyll and photosynthesizing less efficiently, also impacts supply.
High demand, amplified by social media, further drives up its cost. Factors influencing the price include the plant’s size, the number of nodes on a cutting, and the amount and quality of variegation displayed. When purchasing, seek reputable sellers like established online nurseries or local plant shops. Inspect the plant or cutting for signs of health and genuine variegation to avoid scams or unhealthy specimens.