Plant Species: Monstera deliciosa albo

Cultivar: albo

Plant Genus: Monstera

Plant Family: Araceae

Native Habitat: Guatemala, Gulf of Mexico, Southeastern Mexico, and Southwestern Mexico.

Soil Drainage: Well-draining soil is recommended, composed of a substrate mix containing coco coir, perlite, cocoa bark, vermiculite, sphagnum moss, and pumice.

Soil pH: Acidic

Fertilizers: Monstera deliciosa albo requires a sustained mineral input in its substrate, as well as constant fertilization with silica. We recommend using a bio-type fertilizer (we use the BioBizz brand for the plants we cultivate) from the beginning of March to the end of November, supplemented with Silica.

Air Humidity: It is well acclimated to indoor environments, with air humidity between 40% and 60%.

Temperature: 18-26 degrees Celsius (64-79 degrees Fahrenheit)

Light: Full indirect light

Plant Height Including Pot: 25-30cm (10-12 inches)

Pot Diameter: 12cm (4.7 inches)

Monstera deliciosa is probably one of the most beloved plants by growers all around the world, young and old alike. Many of us have memories of grandmothers or neighbors caring for a mature specimen with giant hole-filled leaves, often using creative support systems involving broom or mop handles. In the past 4-5 years, its younger and posh sibling emerged – Monstera deliciosa albo variegata – stealing the hearts of all plant enthusiasts and becoming the absolute queen of Instagram.

Arising from a genetic mutation, it features the same pinnatifid leaves that, at maturity, can develop double or even triple fenestrations. In addition to these traits, it boasts unique patterns of white variegation, setting it apart from the classic deliciosa variant.

While undeniably spectacular, this variation requires more attention. Because the variegated areas of the leaves do not produce chlorophyll, they tend to necrotize over time, resulting in an unattractive appearance. Many Monstera deliciosa albo owners choose to trim off the dead zones with scissors (which is made easier by the existing fenestrations). We recommend a fertilization plan that includes a silica supplement, as it strengthens the mechanical properties of cell walls, making the plant more resistant to unfavorable environmental conditions or pests and improving the overall photosynthesis process.

Under optimal conditions of full indirect light (east-facing windows are the best option), fertilization from March to November, and watering when the top two centimeters of the substrate have dried, it exhibits a very good growth rate.

Attention! To check the substrate's moisture level, inserting a finger into the pot to a depth of 2 cm (about 0.8 inches) is the best method. Therefore, if you feel the substrate is moist, keep the spray bottle away for a day or two, and if it feels dry, water it.

Attention 2! When discussing watering, consider the pot's size, the amount of substrate, and its aeration. Do not pour a liter of water into a pot with a diameter and height of 12 cm (4.7 inches), as it could drown the plant's roots. It's best to discard excess water from the saucer about half an hour after watering.

As it grows, it requires a support pole covered in coconut fiber. This allows the aerial roots to attach to the support, resulting in a more robust stem and progressively larger leaves with multiple fenestrations.

Best of luck with caring for it! And don't forget to provide updates about your plant using the hashtag #greenmirrors and tagging @green.mirrors in your Instagram posts! We promise to share them in our stories.

Tags: Monstera, Monstera deliciosa albo variegated, Araceae, rare plants, unusual plants, decorative foliage plants, trailing plants, air-purifying plants, indoor decorative plants.