Monstera borsigiana 'Albo'

 Please review photos carefully as some Plants have damages.
Some Monstera Albos have signs of Edema on the lowest leaves from previous season.

Monstera borsigiana 'Albo Variegata' is a popular and strikingly beautiful cultivar of the Monstera borsigiana, a sub-species of the well-known Monstera deliciosa. This plant is distinguished by its stunning variegation, featuring a marbled blend of pure white and green. The leaves are heart-shaped and develop fenestrations (splits and holes) as they mature, which adds to their dramatic appeal. The variegation pattern varies from plant to plant, with some leaves having large white sections and others displaying more marbled or speckled effects. The white portions lack chlorophyll, making this plant both visually captivating and somewhat slower-growing than its fully green relatives.

This climbing, vining aroid is similar to Monstera deliciosa, but M. borsigiana tends to be smaller in size and grows faster. The 'Albo Variegata' is highly sought after by plant enthusiasts for its rare and unpredictable variegation, which can sometimes cover entire leaves.

Care Plan:

1. Light:

• Optimal: Bright, indirect light. The variegated sections of Monstera borsigiana 'Albo' lack chlorophyll, so sufficient light is crucial for healthy growth. However, avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the white areas.
• Tolerable: Low to medium light conditions, though this may result in slower growth and less variegation.

2. Watering:

• Frequency: Water when the top 2–5 cm of soil feels dry.
• Method: Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, but ensure that the plant does not sit in standing water to avoid root rot.
• Tip: Use distilled or rainwater if your tap water contains high levels of minerals, which may cause brown spots on the white parts of the leaves.

3. Humidity:

• Optimal: 60–80% humidity is ideal. This plant originates from tropical environments and will thrive in a humid setting.
• Tolerable: It can tolerate lower humidity (40–50%) but may develop brown edges on the white variegation in drier conditions.
• Tip: Increase humidity with a humidifier or by placing the pot on a pebble tray with water.

4. Temperature:

• Optimal: 18–27°C is best for Monstera borsigiana 'Albo Variegata'. It does not tolerate cold temperatures well.
• Tolerable: Minimum temperature should not drop below 10°C.
• Tip: Keep away from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.

5. Soil:

• Type: Use a well-draining, airy potting mix, such as an aroid mix. This can include a combination of orchid bark, perlite, peat moss, and coco coir for good drainage and aeration.
• Tip: Ensure that the soil retains moisture but does not become waterlogged.

6. Fertiliser:

• Frequency: Feed during the growing season (spring and summer) every 4–6 weeks. We recommend using a Silca every second feed.