In the flourishing world of houseplants, there are few that command the same attention and desire as the Monstera Albo.
This unique species of Monstera has become a coveted plant among plant enthusiasts and collectors for its distinct white-variegated leaves.
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It’s also extremely rare, which makes it a prize among plant collectors.
In recent years, the Monstera Albo has achieved near-legendary status.
Mature specimens are commanding high prices, sometimes selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
But it’s not just its aesthetic appeal that makes this plant desirable.
The Monstera Albo is a symbol of prestige and a testament to a gardener’s skill and dedication, as it requires specific conditions to thrive and maintain its distinctive variegation.
The Meaning of “Albo”
The term “Albo” in the context of plant nomenclature is short for “Albovariegata” which indicates that the plant has white variegation. It comes from the latin word Albus which means white.
Variegation is the appearance of differently colored zones in the leaves, and other tissues of plants.
Variegated leaves occur rarely in nature. “Albovariegata” means that the plant has white areas where chlorophyll is missing.
Hence, “Monstera Albo” is shorthand for a Monstera plant that has white variegation on its leaves.
Why is the Monstera Albo Rare and Expensive?
You won’t normally see a Monstera Albo in your local plant nursery. You can often buy them only from breeders; that’s why it’s very rare.
Check out the most expensive Monstera varieties here: Most Expensive Monstera: A Price Tag As Monstrous As Its Name!
Several factors contribute to the rarity and high cost of Monstera Albos.
Supply and Demand
Monstera Albo has become increasingly popular due to social media, leading to a high demand for the plant.
Additionally, this variety grows slowly, produces low levels of chlorophyll, and can only be found in certain regions.
Thus, its supply does not meet the growing demand. Plant collectors are willing to pay a premium for this rare and exclusive variety.
Difficulty in Propagation
Monstera Albo is a variegated subspecies of Monstera deliciosa and its unique white patterning is caused by a natural mutation.
This mutation makes it difficult to propagate this variety from seeds, as the mutation may not carry over to future generations.
Propagation by cuttings is another option but it requires skill and patience. Additionally, not all cuttings will be as vibrant or colorful as their parent plant.
Unpredictable Variegation
The variegation in Monstera Albo is unpredictable, leading to a unique pattern of white and green on its leaves for each plant.
This makes it difficult to find plants with desirable variegation patterns, which increases its desirability and price tag.
Short Life Span of Leaves
Monstera Albo’s variegated leaves have white patches due to a lack of chlorophyll, preventing them from photosynthesizing as effectively as regular green leaves. This results in slower growth and shorter lifespan.
Stability of Variegation
The variegation in Monstera Albo plants can become less pronounced as the plant matures. This means that even if you purchase a variegated Monstera Albo, it may not stay that way for long.
Some growers have reported success in stabilizing variegation through selective breeding, but this process takes time and effort, contributing to the high cost of these plants.
Different Types of Monstera Albo
There are several different types of Monstera Albo, each with its own unique characteristics and patterns.
From the classic Monstera Albo Borsigiana to the rare Monstera Albo Variegata Thai Constellation, these plants are highly sought after by plant enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Here are some of the different varieties of Monstera Albo:
1. Monstera Deliciosa Albo Variegata
This variety is appreciated for its distinctive foliage, which features a deep cream and green color combination.
It performs best under bright, indirect light which helps bring out its unique hues. It can grow up to 20-30 feet in height under optimal conditions.
The leaf size can vary greatly and some mature leaves can reach over 12 inches in length. However, its variegation pattern can be unpredictable, which adds to its rarity and price.
2. Monstera Adansonii Albo Variegata
This is a rare and highly valued variety of the Monstera plant family. This variant is distinguished by its glossy leaves that exhibit a cream-white variegation against a green backdrop.
The leaf structure is akin to other Monstera varieties, showcasing the characteristic perforations or “holes”.
The variegation pattern in these plants is unpredictable, with each leaf potentially developing a unique combination of green and white, enhancing its appeal among plant enthusiasts and collectors.
3. Monstera Deliciosa Albo Borsigiana
This variety is an absolute stunner with its snowy-white, bright variegation that covers huge spaces of the leaves.
These leaves display large patches of snowy white and bright green, giving the plant a unique and captivating aesthetic.
The leaf size is generally smaller than its relative, Monstera Deliciosa, but it features the same iconic split-leaf design.
While the Albo Borsigiana can grow to be quite large, it can also be pruned and trained to grow into a more compact shape.
4. Monstera Half Moon
This hybrid version has deeply serrated leaves that can be either green or cream in color. Some leaves are a mixture of both hues.
There are many other Monstera albo varieties such as the Japanese White Tiger, Monstera Standleyana Albo Variegata, and Monstera Adansonii Variegated Laniata Albo.
Some will have marbled markings and others will be pure white. Check out this video below which shows the different albo patterns in Monstera varieties.
The Most Challenging But Rewarding Monstera Varieties to Own
While the Monstera Albo may be more challenging to find and care for than the average houseplant, the rewards of owning this tropical beauty are immeasurable.
Its stunning foliage adds a touch of the exotic to any space, and the satisfaction of successfully cultivating this rare plant is a joy unto itself.
Have you ever seen a Monstera Albo before? Share your experience in the comments below!
For more rare Monstera plants, read here: Unveiling The Giants: The Discovery Of The World’s Largest Monstera Plants
