If you’re looking for a houseplant that truly stands out, you’ve likely seen the stunning white monstera. This rare and stunning tropical plant has taken the plant world by storm with its dramatic, variegated leaves. It’s a special form of the classic Monstera deliciosa, but with sections of pure white or cream that create a breathtaking, painterly effect. Let’s get to know this beautiful but demanding plant.
Owning one is a dream for many collectors, but it requires specific care to keep it healthy and its variegation bright. This guide will walk you through everything you need, from finding a plant to keeping it thriving in your home.
White Monstera – Rare and Stunning Tropical
So, what exactly is a white monstera? It’s not a separate species. It’s a Monstera deliciosa with a genetic mutation called variegation. This mutation causes some cells to lack chlorophyll, the green pigment plants use for photosynthesis. Those areas appear white, cream, or light yellow. The most sought-after types are the ‘Albo Borsigiana’ and the ‘Thai Constellation’. The ‘Albo’ has bold, sectoral white patches, while the ‘Thai’ has more speckled, creamy variegation.
Why Is It So Rare and Expensive?
There are a few key reasons for its high price tag:
- Slow Propagation: It can’t be grown reliably from seed. The variegation is unstable, so new plants must be created from cuttings of a variegated mother plant.
- High Demand: Their unique beauty drives intense demand from houseplant enthusiasts worldwide.
- Growth Speed: With less chlorophyll, they grow slower than all-green Monsteras.
- Care Difficulty: They are more prone to problems and require more attentive care, which we’ll cover next.
Essential Care Guide for Your White Monstera
Success with this plant means replicating its tropical origins while accounting for its delicate variegation.
Light: The Most Important Factor
Bright, indirect light is non-negotiable. The white parts can’t feed the plant, so the green sections must work harder. Insufficient light will cause slow growth, loss of variegation (the plant may revert to all-green), and leggy stems.
- Ideal Spot: Right in front of an east or west-facing window. A few feet back from a south-facing window (with a sheer curtain) is also good.
- Avoid: Direct, harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the thin white leaves. Deep shade is also a major problem.
Watering: Finding the Balance
Overwatering is the fastest way to kill your plant. The roots need oxygen. Always check the soil first.
- Stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil.
- If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
- Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes.
- Empty the saucer after 15 minutes so the pot doesn’t sit in water.
- In winter, you may need to water much less frequently.
Soil and Potting
A chunky, airy, well-draining mix is crucial. A standard potting soil holds too much moisture. You can make your own mix:
- 2 parts high-quality potting soil
- 1 part orchid bark
- 1 part perlite or pumice
- A handful of horticultural charcoal (optional, but helps keep soil fresh)
Always use a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are excellent because they allow the soil to dry out more evenly.
Humidity and Temperature
As a tropical plant, it loves humidity. Aim for 60% or higher.
- Use a humidifier nearby (most effective).
- Place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
- Group it with other plants to create a microclimate.
- Keep it away from heating vents, air conditioners, and drafty windows. Ideal temperatures are between 65°F and 85°F.
Fertilizing and Common Problems
Feed your plant during the active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, once a month. Do not fertilize in fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilizing can burn the roots and leaves.
Common issues include:
- Brown Edges on White Sections: This is normal. The white tissue is fragile and often browns due to low humidity or minor physical damage. You can’t prevent it entirely.
- Yellow Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Check your soil moisture routine.
- All-Green Leaves (Reverting): Means the plant isn’t getting enough light. Prune back the all-green stem to the last variegated node to encourage variegated growth.
- Pests: Watch for spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Wipe leaves regularly and treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
How to Propagate Your White Monstera
Propagation is usually done via stem cuttings. This is how you can make new plants and also manage your plant’s growth. Here’s how:
- Identify a healthy stem with at least one node (the brown, ring-like bump) and one leaf with good variegation.
- Using a clean, sharp knife or shears, cut about an inch below the node.
- You can root the cutting in water or moist sphagnum moss. Place the node in the medium, but not the leaf.
- Put it in bright, indirect light and change the water weekly if using that method.
- Once roots are a few inches long (this can take several weeks), pot it up in your chunky soil mix.
Remember, cuttings from all-green sections will produce all-green plants. Always choose a cutting with visible variegation in the stem.
Where to Find and Buy One
Due to their rarity, you won’t typically find them at big-box stores. Check:
- Specialist online plant shops and nurseries.
- Etsy and other plant marketplaces (always check seller reviews).
- Local plant swaps or Facebook plant groups.
- Be prepared for the cost, which can range from tens to hundreds of dollars depending on size and variegation.
Inspect any plant carefully before buying. Look for signs of pests, root health, and good leaf variegation. A plant with variegation on the stem is more likely to produce variegated leaves.
Is a White Monstera Right for You?
This plant is not for beginners. It’s a commitment. Ask yourself:
- Do you have a bright spot with indirect light?
- Are you willing to monitor water carefully and not over-love it with too much?
- Can you provide extra humidity?
- Are you okay with some natural browning on the white parts?
If you answered yes, and you’re ready for the challenge, a white monstera can be an incredibly rewarding centerpiece for your home. Its beauty is truly unmatched, and the care it requires makes its success even more satisfying. Just remember, patience is key with this slow-growing gem.
FAQ
Are white monsteras real?
Yes! They are a variegated cultivar of Monstera deliciosa. Their stunning apperance is completely natural, though rare.
How much does a variegated monstera cost?
Prices vary widely. Small cuttings can start around $50, while large, established plants with heavy variegation can cost several hundred dollars or more.
Can a white monstera turn green again?
Yes, if it doesn’t get enough light, it may start producing all-green leaves to survive. This is called reverting. Prune back to the last variegated node to encourage the white patches to return.
Is the white monstera toxic to pets?
Yes, like all Monsteras, it contains calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It can cause oral irritation and stomach upset. Keep it out of reach.
Why are the white parts turning brown?
The white tissue lacks chlorophyll and is more senstive. Brown edges or spots are common due to low humidity, underwatering, or just natural cell death. Increasing humidity can help minimize it.