Variegated Monstera is an indoor species known for its unique leaf coloration. The plant features a mix of dark green and white patterns. Variegated Monstera produces less chlorophyll, which causes slow growth.
Its thick, leathery leaves have holes reaching between 15 to 20 inches long. The indoor plant’s aerial roots provide proper anchoring, moisture absorption, and nutrient uptake from the air.
The variegated Monstera has some green leaf parts with cream, white, or yellow splotches and dots. The irregular variegation is due to its unstable genetic mutation.
| Scientific Name | Monstera deliciosa |
| Common Name | Variegated monstera |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Monstera |
| Origin | Central America |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 10-12 |
| Propagation Methods | Stem cuttings |
| Temperature Tolerance | Warm subtropical |
| Soil Requirements | Well-draining with a pH of 6.0-6.5 |
| Humidity Level | Medium to high humidity (50%-70%) |
Common Indoor Variegated Monstera Varieties
Monstera deliciosa ‘Aurea’
The Aurea plant has a blend of dark green and yellow on its foliage. The yellow variegations may occur on small tissue patches or half of the leaf.
Monstera deliciosa ‘thai constellation’
The Thai constellation variety features light yellow or cream-colored splotchy pattern variegation. Unlike the Aurea, this monstera variety displays variegation in most or all leaves sections.
Mint Monstera deliciosa
The mint variety features mint green markings on its leaves. The mint green variegation is not always uniform, with bright white speckles also appearing in the leaves.
Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Borsigiana’
Albo Borsigiana is a perennial plant belonging to the Monstera deliciosa subspecies. The plant features large white patches and splotchy variegation appearing on split leaves.
How to Care for a Variegated Monstera Plant
Light Requirements
Variegated Monstera plants need sufficient bright sunlight as they don’t naturally produce chlorophyll. But keep it far from a direct light source to avoid scorching the leaves.
Place your plant near a window with filtered sunlight or provide bright artificial lighting. Rotating the Monstera once a month ensures even growth on all the plant’s sides.
Soil Mix and Composition
Variegated Monstera thrives in well-draining soil with high organic matter. Use a potting mix with parts of pumice, coarse horticultural sand, or perlite. You could also use perlite, orchid park, peat, or coco fiber.
Perlite and sand are ideal for improving drainage. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
Potting
Choose a pot larger than the current one, allowing some room for the plant to grow. Ensure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Transplanting and Repotting
Consider transplanting your Monstera into a larger pot if it’s rootbound. Repot the plant every two years into a larger container and add fresh potting mix and perlite. The most suitable time to repot is early spring, as new leaves haven’t emerged yet.
Temperature and Humidity
Your Variegated Monstera prefers temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C). Protect it from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations. Variegated Monstera plants thrive in high humidity, requiring a humidifier to raise the levels.
Low humidity impacts their well-being, causing brown, burnt leaf tips and stunted growth. You could also place the plant on a tray with water and pebbles or mist the leaves regularly.
Fertilizer
The variegated Monstera plants aren’t heavy feeders but should be fed during the growing season for best results. Fertilize your variegated Monstera monthly during the growing season (spring and summer).
A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength works best for the plant. Reduce fertilization during the dormant period (fall and winter).
Watering
Periodic watering is crucial for the Monstera’s survival. Too much moisture may cause roots to rot, making it difficult to save the plant. To avoid overwatering, water your variegated Monstera when the top inch of the soil feels dry.
Also, ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Water until it drains out of the bottom, and discard any excess water.
Use a moisture meter to ensure the plant receives enough water. Adjust your watering frequency based on the plant’s needs and the environment.
Pruning and Training
Prune your variegated Monstera to maintain its shape and remove damaged or yellowing leaves. Variegated Monstera is a vine or climbing plant.
You should train it to climb a moss pole or trellis, enhancing its growth and aesthetics. Use soft ties or twine to gently secure the stems to the support structure.
How to Propagate Variegated Monstera Plants
- Select a healthy stem: Look for a stem on your variegated Monstera plant with at least one node. Nodes are the points on the stem where leaves emerge.
- Prepare your tools: Gather a clean pair of pruning shears or sharp knives. Sterilize the tools by wiping them with rubbing alcohol or dipping them in a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Sterilization helps prevent the spread of diseases or pathogens.
- Take a cutting: Make a clean cut just below a node on the selected stem. The cutting should be 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long. If there are any leaves on the lower part of the cutting, remove them to prevent excessive moisture loss.
- Rooting in water: Place the cutting in a container filled with clean, room-temperature water. Ensure the node is submerged in the water while the remaining cutting remains above. Place the container in a location with bright, indirect light. Change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and the growth of bacteria.
- Rooting in soil: If you prefer to grow the cutting in soil, prepare a small pot with well-draining soil. Moisten the soil, but avoid making it wet. Insert the cutting into the soil, burying at least one node. Place the pot in a warm and bright location away from direct sunlight. Covering the pot with a plastic bag or using a humidity dome helps retain moisture.
Pest and Disease Management
Pests
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on plant sap, causing yellowing leaves and webbing. Inspect your plant for signs of spider mites, such as speckled leaves or webbing.
Use a strong jet of water to wash off the mites from the leaves. Also, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product instructions. Consider increasing humidity around the plant, as spider mites prefer dry conditions.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that cluster in leaf axils and along stems. They suck the plant’s sap, causing stunted growth and honeydew secretion.
To manage mealybug infestations, remove the insects using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or soapy water. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to dislodge mealybugs from hard-to-reach areas. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil on affected areas using cotton buds.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are tiny, immobile pests that attach themselves to plant surfaces and feed on sap. They often appear as brown or tan bumps on stems and leaves.
To manage scale infestations, scrape off the scales using a soft brush or your fingernail. Apply horticultural oil or neem oil to suffocate and kill the scales.
Diseases
Leaf Spot Diseases
Leaf spot diseases cause circular or irregular spots on the leaves, often with a yellow halo. Leaf spot diseases are due to fungal or bacterial pathogens. Removing and disposing of infected leaves prevents the spread of the disease.
Ensure good air circulation around the plant through proper spacing and avoiding overcrowding. Avoid overhead watering, as it promotes the spread of fungal pathogens. Instead, water at the plant’s base.
Root Rot
Root rot occurs when the plant roots become saturated and start to rot. Root rot is often due to overwatering or poor drainage. To manage root rot, ensure you use well-draining soil and that the pot has drainage holes. Also, allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Trim off rotting or mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil. Adjust your watering practices to prevent future occurrences of root rot.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves are due to overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency. To ensure you’re not overwatering your plant, allow the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil to dry out before watering again.
In contrast, if the leaves are yellowing and crispy, it may indicate underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule to ensure the plant receives adequate moisture.
Yellowing leaves could also result from nutrient deficiencies. Use a balanced fertilizer formulated for houseplants and follow the package instructions.
Brown Leaf Tips
Browning leaf tips are due to low humidity or overfertilization. Variegated Monstera plants prefer higher humidity levels. Increase humidity around the plant by misting the leaves or using a humidifier.
Too much fertilizer leads to salt buildup in the soil, causing leaf tip burn. Flush the soil with plain water to leach out excess salts, and adjust your fertilizing schedule.
Leggy Growth
Insufficient light and inadequate pruning lead to leggy growth. Variegated Monstera plants need bright, indirect light to maintain their variegation and compact growth. Move the plant to a sunnier location or use artificial grow lights.
Prune your variegated Monstera to encourage bushier growth. Pinch or trim back leggy stems to promote new growth and maintain a more compact shape.
Loss of Variegation
The plant’s variegation fades or diminishes if the plant doesn’t receive enough light. Place your plant in a spot with bright, indirect light.
