Albino Monstera Care Guide

Albino monstera plant

Albino Monstera plants have exploded in popularity over the past year, and it’s no surprise why.  The unique patterning of their mostly white leaves add an interesting splash of contrast to any room or office.

While the stunning colors do make these plants eye-catching, they can still be tricky to care for—especially when you don’t fully understand plant growth and development.

Whether you are a beginner plant enthusiast eager to take on your first monstera or an experienced grower hoping to learn more about how best to keep yours happy and thriving, this blog post has something for everyone looking to tackle Albino Monstera Care.

Scientific nameAlbino Monstera
Other namesWhite monstera deliciosaMonstera albo variegata
NativeSouthern Mexico, south to Panama
FamilyAraceae
GenusMonstera
Growth zone9b-11 USDA
Plant typeEvergreen
Growth size10 to 32 inches tall
Growth rateFaster growth rate
LeavesVariegatedFenestrated
FloweringProduces flowers
FruitingFleshy fruit
ToxicityToxic to both humans and pets
Common pestsSpider mites Brown scalesMealy bugs
DiseasesSouthern blight
Bacterial leaf spot
Mosaic Virus
Powdery mildew

What is Albino Monstera Plant

Albino Monstera Care Image

Albino Monstera, also known as Monstera Albo Variegata or White monstera deliciosas, is a rare and unique variant of the popular Monstera genus. This makes it a rare, expensive plant, and you may not find it in your local garden center or nursery. 

Hailing from the tropical regions of Southern Mexico to Panama, this particular species is among the tropical plants distinguished by its captivating white variegations that contrast beautifully with its lush green foliage. 

 A rare genetic mutation causes albinism that may or may not be stable. Many plants with such white variegation tend to be more delicate than their green counterparts, and the variegated Monstera Deliciosa Albo Variegata is no exception. 

How Do You Identify Albino Monstera?

To identify an Albino Monstera plant, pay close attention to the unique patterns and colors exhibited by its leaves. 

This striking plant variety is characterized by a combination of white and green mottling on some leaves, while others might be entirely white. 

This uneven distribution of color is a result of a genetic mutation or tissue culture that leads to distinctive variegation patterns. The white or bleached leaf areas do not produce chlorophyll, resembling Monstera cultivars. 

Variegated Monstera is marked by its unique white and green patterned leaves. Depending on the age and maturity of the variegated monstera plants, the pattern may be more or less pronounced. Surprisingly, some variegated monsteras can grow speckled or completely white leaves.

Albino Monstera Care Needs

The care needs for White monstera deliciosa are fairly minimal. We have outlined the basics here:

1. Lighting

Albino Monstera lighting needs and requirements vary based on the species’ native environment. As a rainforest plant, it needs to be kept away from direct sunlight and will climb using aerial roots to get light.

As with most plants, Bright to medium, indirect light is best for a White monstera deliciosa with 8-10 hours of optimal lighting daily. Alternatively, use LED grow lights at home for 10-12 hours every day. 

You can also find an environment with a warm spot exposed to indirect or slightly filtered light while avoiding both direct sunlight as this cause causes ugly spots that won’t recover.

Signs Your Albino Monstera Needs More Light

  • The plant has stunted growth.
  • The leaves are discolored or have dark brown spots or yellowing.
  • The soil takes longer to dry out.
  • The stems are stretching out in search of more light.
  • The plant looks leggy or stretched out.

How to Maximize Light Exposure?

  • Place the plant in a well-ventilated area that allows it to receive enough light and air circulation.
  • Place the plant close to a south- or west-facing window for maximum light exposure.
  • Position any artificial lights 4-5 feet away from your Albino Monstera.
  • Keep the plant away from drafty windows and vents.
  • Use a shade cloth to protect your plant from direct sunlight.
  • Rotate your Albino Monstera daily to ensure all sides get adequate light exposure.
  • Adjust curtains or blinds so that light can filter through for additional brightness.

2. Watering

To ensure that your Monstera albo gets the proper amount of water, monitor its soil moisture level regularly. 

A value of 3-5 is optimal; a moisture meter can quickly and easily determine if this range is met. If not, add more water or let it dry out before re-watering accordingly. Inspect the surface for dryness to determine when the plant needs water.

Alternatively, use the finger test or poke-a-stick method for accurate results.

Water your Albino Monstera once a week during the spring and summer seasons and every two weeks in winter. Provide only a small amount of water during cold months to keep your plant healthy and thriving. 

 Water your Albino Monstera with rainwater or distilled room-temperature water until the soil is completely soaked. Avoid using mineralized or chloramine-treated water, as these may contain harmful minerals.

Pour slowly to ensure the soil is fully saturated, letting water drip out of the drainage outlets at the bottom of your pot. Cautiously water the leaves to prevent interrupting photosynthesis.

Signs of Underwatering

  • Wilted leaves
  • Discolored foliage
  • Dry and crispy leaves
  • Brittle stems or trunk 
  • Excessively dry soil 
  • Stunted growth

Signs of Overwatering

  • Root rot 
  • Leaf spots and blights 
  • Fungus gnats 
  • Drooping leaves 
  • Mushy stems or trunk 
  • Stunted growth

3. Temperature

Albino monstera flourishes in a warm and humid environment, with temperatures ranging from 65-85℉ (18-29 degrees celsius). This ideal temperature range enables the plant to reach its full potential.

Additionally, Monstera thrives in warm temperatures making the temperature range ideal for their growth and development.

Albino monstera temperature tolerance

  • When temperatures dip to 55°F (13 degrees Celsius) or below, the White monstera deliciosa growth rate drastically decreases. For these reasons, the plants must be kept in a climate-controlled environment with temperatures no lower than 55°F. 
  • At temperatures lower than 50°F (10 degrees Celsius), the plant will suffer, leading to discoloured leaves and decay of the roots. If left in cold conditions for too long, these delicate plants will eventually die. 
  • If it is very hot outside and the temperature is above 90°F, the plant will start to dry out as a result of transpiration.

Factors that Affect Temperature

Seasons-During the winter months grow lights are a necessity. Not only do they help protect your plants from frost and icy winds, but they also create an ideal environment for healthy growth indoors. 

Location-The environment of your White monstera deliciosa plant also has a role to play in its temperature preferences. If you keep it outdoors, the exposure to changing temperatures from day and night must be taken into account.

Humidity-If your plant is not doing well in dry air, you can improve the situation by misting the leaves or adding a humidifier.

Light-Due to light’s capability of quickly transforming into heat, excessive illumination can easily lead to a rise in temperatures. On the other hand, a decrease in light intensity will be synonymous with cooler air.

Tips for Maintaining Optimal Temperature

  • To ensure your plant gets all the sunlight it needs, position it near an east-facing window to provide a healthy dose of indirect light. 
  • Avoid positioning your houseplants near air conditioners or heaters, as they can cause sudden temperature shifts, which could be detrimental to its well-being. 
  • When temperatures drop below 50°F, it is critical to keep your monstera safe. Move the plant closer to a grow light, or cover it with a frost blanket/plastic bag for extra insulation. 
  • Make sure your plant is not in direct sunlight to prevent monstera sunburn and keep the temperature even during hot summer months by placing it near an open window or a fan. 

Signs your Albino monstera environment maybe be too cold

  • Curl at the edges 
  • Yellow leaves
  • coffee brown spots
  • Slow growth
  • The plant does not produce flowers
  • Falling leaves

Signs your Albino monstera temperature is too high

  • Wilting leaves
  • Yellowing leaves
  • Falling leaves
  • Dry or sunburned leaves

4. Humidity

Healthy and thriving monstera deliciosa albo love humidity, but moderately in the range of 60% to 80%. Fortunately, it is quite likely that the average home environment falls within these parameters.

If you are fortunate enough to live in an area with tropical weather, there’s no need to worry about maintaining a high humidity level, as these plants are native to tropical climates.

To be certain, you can use a hygrometer to measure the humidity levels of your plant and ensure it is well within optimal growth conditions. 

To ensure the right humidity level for your plants, cluster them together so that any moisture generated from one can be shared with the rest.

Another option is to install a humidifier or use a gentle mister to provide the necessary moisture without making things too wet.

A simpler approach is to add a pebble tray with water to the growing environment for additional moisture. Either way, you can easily maintain an ideal humidity level for your plants.

Image of humidity

Low Humidity Signs

  • Wilting
  • Monstera leaves turn yellow
  • The leaves drop off
  • Dry leaves
  • Crispy leaves

Too High Humidity Signs

  • Growth of molds
  • The leaves are constantly wet
  • Rotting 
  • Musty odors
  • Slow growth

5. Position

Position your variegated monstera plants near an east-facing window in order to achieve the best results. To help it grow strong, provide bright indirect light and humidity levels suitable for its species.

For other directions (west, south, or north), use sheer curtains of fabric to let in bright, filtered light. 

For optimal growth and development, keep your monstera alb 2-4 feet away from strong sunlight.

To ensure even growth on all sides, rotate the plant periodically. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight after 9 am, near heaters or south-facing windows, and in crowded rooms such as bedrooms.  

Where Not to Place albino monstera in the Home

  • Bedrooms as Feng Shui principles discourage this
  • Direct sun after 9:00 AM. 
  • Direct light in a south- or west-facing window
  • Crowded rooms
  • Near heaters or ACs

6. Fertilizer

Fertilization of White monstera deliciosa plant requires moderate levels of nutrients to ensure optimal growth and health. This plant does not require a lot of feeding, but with the right amount, you can watch them thrive like never before.

Why Albino Monstera should be fertilized

i. Most Potting soils are enriched with some nutrients.

Potting soil provides some essential nutrients for your plants, yet it is not enough to sustain their complete requirements. As such, it is essential to fertilize your White monstera deliciosa to supply it with the necessary macronutrients and micronutrients that promote its healthy growth. 

ii. Potting soil nutrients get depleted in 6-12 months.

Over time, potting soils become depleted because of consistent watering. To maintain a healthy and thriving garden or lawn, replenishing soil nutrients through regular fertilization is essential.

iii. Help the plant reach its full potential

To ensure Albino Monstera reaches its fullest potential and thrives, give it a balanced fertilizer need during the growing season of spring and summer.

iv. Fertilizers function as vitamins for the plant

Fertilizers are the perfect nutrient-rich supplement for your Albino Monstera, allowing it to blossom with strong and vibrant foliage.

Albino Monstera plants require a delicate balance of macro and micronutrients, as well as other trace elements, to stay healthy.

The large doses are the macro nutrients and include,nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) while micro-nutrients are Iron, Copper–Boron, Zinc, Chlorine, Nickel. Other small doses are calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.

The best interval to fertilize White monstera deliciosa is one or two times a month. This trend is only best recommended during the plant’s active season.

In other seasons when the plant is dormant, it is needless to water the plant. You can provide light water misting and maintain temperatures within the optimal range to ensure the plant thrives. 

What Fertilizer is best for Albino Monstera Plant

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Most gardeners agree the best fertilizer for Albino Monstera is Balanced Liquid NPK fertilizer of 20:20:20 ratio or 10-10-10. 

You will apply it depending on the seasons. During the plant’s growing period, you should fertilize it every two weeks by diluting it at a quarter strength.

However, reduce the application to at least once a month because White monstera deliciosa doesn’t need much fertilizer in the dormancy period.  

Slow-release fertilizer is also a perfect fit, but it’s pricey. Other than that, they have high salt content. Remember, not all fertilizers can serve your plant, so avoid granular fertilizers, or else they will burn the roots. 

How to Apply Fertilizer

When growing your monstera indoors, dilute liquid fertilizer by half to dilute the concentration. Put simply, 0.5 teaspoons for every gallon, assuming the manufacturer recommends 1 whole spoon. 

When growing the Albino Monstera outdoors, make sure to adhere to the guidelines on the label for optimum strength. Before applying fertilizer to your Monstera, make sure that it is adequately watered for peak absorption.

Benefits of Fertilizing Monstera Plants

i. Improves soil structure

With the help of fertilizers, you can boost your Monstera’s soil structure and fertility, giving it a better root system that will easily absorb nutrients, water, and air. This way your plant has an optimal foundation to thrive. 

ii. Encourages growth

A systematic fertilizing routine will not only nurture your Monstera to reach its maximum potential, but it can also fortify big leaves and thick stems as well as stimulate more flowering.

iii. Balance the nutrients

For your Monstera to thrive, it requires a proper balance of essential nutrients. The most effective way to guarantee that is through the use of fertilizer. Investing in fertilizer will ensure that your plant remains healthy and vibrant with lush green leaves. 

iv. Stronger resistance to pests and diseases

Ensuring your Monstera is receiving the necessary nutrients will make it more resistant to pests and diseases, ultimately keeping your plant thriving.

Tips for Fertilizing Monstera Plants

  • Harness the power of all-natural compost to nourish your Albino Monstera and recreate its natural environment. Worm casting is an ideal example to try. 
  • If you don’t have compost on hand, you can still create your own fertilizer. Try concocting an organic combination of banana peels and water for a natural, nitrogen-rich feeding. 

Signs of Over-Fertilization

  • Yellow leaves
  • Black and brown roots or limps
  • Defoliation
  • Sturded growth
  • Fertilizer crust on the soil surface

Signs of Under-Fertilization 

  • Yellow spots
  • Slow growth
  • Wilting leaves

7. Pruning

Pruning is a necessary step to keep your plants healthy, prevent pests and regulate humidity in your home. It’s best to prune plants during springtime as the abundant growth signals of this season give them the best chance of recovering quickly.

Avoid pruning during winter when limited sunlight makes it harder for the plant to produce glucose to aid growth and development.

Tools Needed for Pruning Monstera Sierrana

How to  Prune Albino Monstera

  1. To ensure your safety, start the process by donning gloves and collecting sterilized cutting implements to shield yourself from bacteria.
  2. Prune away wilted or diseased leaves to help encourage the plant’s overall well-being.
  3. Afterward, select the stems that need pruning and trim them as close to their base as you can manage.
  4. To keep the appearance of your plant attractive, carefully cut back any visible aerial roots near the top of its stem.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Pruning Albino Monstera

  • Cutting too many stems
  • Using blunt pruning shear
  • Pruning during the plant’s dormancy stage
  • Pruning a young monstera

8. Propagating Monstera Lechleriana

i. Stem Cuttings

Stem cutting is the most common and simple way to propagate Monstera albo. First, select healthy stems from a mature plant then cut off a stem with several leaves attached. Make sure that each stem has at least two nodes which new roots can grow from.

Place the stem in water or good-draining soil, and make sure to keep the soil moist at all times. With regular watering, you should see new roots and shoots forming in a few weeks.

ii. Air Layering

Air layering is another popular method for propagating White monstera deliciosa. Start by selecting a healthy stem from the mature plant, then peel off some of its bark and dust the exposed part with the rooting hormone.

Wrap damp sphagnum moss over the exposed area, and secure it in place using plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep the moss moist at all times with regular watering and misting. In just a few weeks, you should see new roots developing from the stem.

iii. Division

If you have White monstera deliciosa with multiple stems, division is a great way to propagate it. Start by carefully digging up the plant, then divide it into sections using sharp pruning shears.

Each section should have at least one stem and some roots attached. You can then replant each section in its own pot or container filled with soil. Make sure to keep the soil moist at all times, and you should see new roots and shoots sprouting soon. 

Potting & Repotting

Albino monstera plants should be repotted yearly to keep them healthy and provide optimal nutrient access for their growth.

Pot size should be two to four inches larger than the current one, with enough drainage for water to move freely, so make sure you go for the best monstera pots, the likes of terracotta pots.

By repotting your monstera regularly, you ensure it remains lush and vibrant in your space for many months to come.

Signs that your Albino Monstera needs repotting

  • Protruding roots outside drainage holes.
  • Disease attack
  • Stunted growth
  • It is difficult to water as it just runs off the top of the soil.

How to repot Albino Monstera 

Supplies

  • Pot 
  • Garden Trowel
  • Potting soil
  • Pruning Shears
  • Plant support (coco coir or moss pole)
  • Watering Can

Steps of repotting albino monstera

  • To get started on the process, choose a terracotta pot that’s big enough for your plant and has drainage holes in the bottom.
  • Then, add some potting soil for monstera– about a quarter or a third of it should do.
  • Trim the roots
  • Top off this transformation with some water for hydration so your albino monstera can get used to their new digs.

9. Soil Drainage and Aeration

A well-draining soil mix consisting of organic matter such as compost or mulch is ideal for White monstera deliciosa. The mixture should be light and not densely packed to protect the roots from rotting and also allow for adequate oxygenation in the roots.

By providing the appropriate components, you can ensure your plant grows healthy and strong. 

To ensure ideal growth and absorption of essential nutrients for albino Monstera, it is best to maintain its soil pH between 5.5-7.

If the soil is too acidic (low pH), adding lime can raise it; conversely, sulfur can be added to lower the soil’s pH (making it more acidic). Adjusting the acidity properly will help your plant reach its full potential.

Best commercial potting mix for albino Monstera to buy

  1. Premium Monstera Potting Soil

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2. Sun Gro Horticulture Black Gold 1310102 8-Quart All Purpose Potting Mix

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DIY soil mix

Creating a DIY soil mix for albino Monstera is easy and effective. The ideal recipe is five parts orchid bark, two parts worm castings, four parts coir, two parts activated charcoal, and five parts perlite. 

This mix provides balanced nutrients while promoting air circulation and proper drainage. The organic material in the worm castings helps keep the plant healthy and looking its best. 

With this mix, you can create an ideal environment for your albino Monstera right at home.

Signs the Soil Isn’t Suitable for Albino Monstera

  • Mushy roots
  • Yellowing leaves
  • Brown spots 
  • Drooping leaves
  • Slow growth 

10. Toxicity of Albino Monstera

The Albino monstera is a highly popular and visually appealing houseplant. Unfortunately, it isn’t always safe for human beings and pets. This plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can be harmful if ingested. 

Its stems, leaves, roots, and fruits all pose potential risks to household companions such as dogs, cats, and rabbits. 

Although the plant won’t kill, it can cause excessive effects. For your pets, contact the ASPCA Poison Control to seek advice about how to proceed with treatment for toxicity. For humans, especially children, wash the child’s mouths with water. 

Common Problems with Albino Monstera

Pests Infestation

When it comes to pest infestations, aphids are the most common culprit in Monstera Albos. Symptoms of this monstera pests may include yellowing leaves, discolored spots on the leaf surface, and a sticky residue on the leaves.

To prevent infestation, it’s important to regularly inspect your Albino Monstera for signs of pests and take action as soon as possible if any are found.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves could be due to a variety of reasons, ranging from too much direct sunlight or cold temperature to improper watering or nutrient deficiency.

To prevent this from occurring, make sure that the plant is well-draining and not overly saturated with water. If you keep it in good condition with proper light and temperature conditions, yellowing leaves should not occur.

Slow Growth

Slow growth can be caused by a lack of nutrients, inadequate light, or too much water. To prevent this from happening, make sure to use quality soil and fertilizers, as well as provide sufficient sunlight.

If the plant is kept in an area that’s too dark or has poor air circulation, then its growth will be stunted. Additionally, make sure to avoid over-watering and allow the soil to dry out in between waterings.

Root rot

This problem is caused by a fungus that can develop due to overwatering or poor drainage. Signs of this may include yellow leaves, wilting, and a rotten smell coming from the potting soil.

To prevent this from occurring, ensure that the pot has adequate drainage and use well-draining soil. Additionally, keep an eye on the moisture levels in the soil, as overwatering should be avoided. 

Disease

Albino Monsteras can be prone to diseases such as mosaic virus. Common signs of this may include wilting, yellowing or brown spots on leaves, stunted growth and a general lack of vigor in the plant.

To prevent the disease from developing, it’s important to provide adequate humidity, keep the leaves clean and dust-free and make sure to water it correctly. If any signs of disease do occur, promptly remove infected leaves or treat with a mild fungicidal solution.

Leaves Dropping

Leaves dropping can be caused by too much direct sunlight or cold temperatures, as well as inadequate watering or nutrient deficiencies. To prevent this from occurring, make sure to keep the plant in a location with filtered sunlight and provide adequate water and nutrients. 

Leaves Turning Brown

Brown leaves can be caused by too much direct sunlight or cold temperature, improper watering, under-fertilizing, or pest infestation.

To rescue your monstera albo leaves turning brown, make sure to provide a bright and warm environment with indirect sunlight, ensure adequate water and fertilizer levels, and regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests.

Uses of Albino Monstera

Albino Monstera plants are one of the most efficient air purifiers due to their large leaves and high oxygen production. The plant can help reduce formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide levels in the home and office environment. 

Another benefit of monstera albos indoors is decorating spaces due to its attractive leaf patterns and large size. It adds an exotic tropical look to any room, making it a great choice for those who want to create an eye-catching design. 

Albino Monstera can also be used in aromatherapy for its calming and soothing effects when the leaves are crushed or burned. 

FAQs

Are Albino Monstera Stable?

No, Albino Monstera are not stable. This is due to the fact that they are naturally occurring mutations in nature, and therefore, the mutation is not likely to be carried on across generations.

What’s the difference between a Monstera albo and Monstera Thai Constellation? 

Albino monsteras are characterized by large patches of stark white variegation, while the Thai Constellation is characterized by smaller splatters of white/cream variegation. 

Is Monstera albo a fast grower? 

No. Due to the variegation on its leaves, which impacts photosynthesis, the Monstera albo is slow-growing, especially compared to the regular Monstera.

Things to Avoid When Dealing with Albino Monstera

  • Direct sunlight
  • Putting the plant next to an air conditioner or heater
  • Overwatering or underwatering
  • Closed and congested spaces
  • Fertilization after repotting

Conclusion 

Taking care of your albino monstera plants is essential for their health and growth, as this breed of Monstera is more fragile than other varieties.

With a bit of knowledge and the proper care, your albino monstera can thrive in your home or workspace and add decor to the space. 

With some attention and love, your albino monstera plant can look beautiful and healthy in no time.  We’d be happy to offer advice on making sure that your plant reaches its full potential.

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