You are a fan of the signature Monstera leaf but long for something more vibrant in your life. If so, the mint monstera variegated could be just what you need.
This incredibly beautiful hybrid is sure to turn heads with its stunning leaves that are splashed with cream and green. Not only does it look amazing, but this tropical plant is surprisingly easy to care for as well – even if you’re new to indoor gardening.
We discuss the essentials when it comes to growing the mint monstera variegated, from watering requirements right through to how best to fertilize them to help them thrive.
Get ready to discover mint monstera variegated care, knowing how easy and enjoyable it is to look after this stunning houseplant below.
| Scientific name | Monstera adansonii ‘Variegated Mint’ |
| Other names | Mint Monstera, Monstera Mint Variegated, variegated monstera mint, Monstera Deliciosa Mint Variegated, Monstera Mint Variegata, Monstera Variegata Mint |
| Native | South & Central America |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Monstera Adans. |
| Growth zone | 9B to 11 |
| Plant type | Tropical houseplant |
| Growth size | Can reach up to 90 cm in size |
| Growth rate | Slow growth (1-2 feet per year) |
| Leaves | Variegated and fenestrated |
| Toxicity | Toxic to both plants and animals |
| Common pests | Spider mites, Brown scales, Mealy bugs |
| Diseases | Southern blight, Bacterial leaf spot, Mosaic Virus, Powdery mildew |
What is Mint Monstera Variegated?
Monstera deliciosa mint, also known as Variegated Monstera deliciosa, is a rare and highly sought-after cultivar of the Monstera deliciosa plant and one of the tropical plants.
Due to its rarity and high demand, the Mint Variegated is an expensive plant, with prices ranging from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
How do you Identify a Mint Monstera Variegated?
The monstera deliciosa mint is a tropical plant that grows in rainforests. This plant is instantly recognizable due to its variegated leaves that exhibit a stunning combination of green and creamy-white colors.
The leaves can grow up to 90 cm, adding a fantastic decorative touch to any indoor or outdoor space. To identify this plant, look for its highly contrasting variegated leaves that make it stand out from other Monstera species.
The plant thrives in warm, wet, and humid conditions, and when it blooms, it produces elongated, oblong fruits.
These characteristic features make the plant resemble other monstera species with Mint variegation (white variegations), like Monstera deliciosa variegata, Monstera Aurea Marmorata, and Monstera Albo Variegata.
As a result, monstera mint variegated is confused with monstera adansonii mint because of similarly shaped leaves. However, to differentiate the two, the leaf variegation for monstera mint is larger.
Mint Monstera Variegated Care Needs
This section provides all the information and tools necessary to take care of your plant properly. From watering schedules, sunlight needs, fertilizer instructions, pruning tips, and more, we have it all covered.
1. Light
Mint Monstera Variegated requires bright to medium, indirect light for best growth. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause the burning of the leaves and ugly spots on the plant.
It may also need to climb using aerial roots to get enough light, although this can be supplemented with artificial lighting, such as LED grow lights, for 10-12 hours each day.
To help the plant climb, you can erect a moss pole inside the planter pot. However, you must select the strongest and best moss pole as the plant may grow so big requiring, stable support.
When initially planting the Monstera deliciosa mint, it is best to provide it with a full shade environment. This will allow the plant to adjust to its new environment and gradually get used to more light.
However, warm spots with indirect or slightly filtered light will help this species of plant flourish. Properly managing the light needs of your Mint Monstera Variegated is key for healthy growth.
Signs Your Mint Monstera Variegated Needs More Light
- Leaves are yellowing or losing their variegation
- Stretching stems and leaves in search of more light
- Slow growth
- New growth emerges with less intense variegation than the older leaves
- Leaves become limp, weak, and discolored
- Plant leans towards the light source
- Lower leaves are dying or dropping off
- The overall appearance of the plant looks dull and lackluster
- Brown spots
How to Maximize Light Exposure
Place your Monstera near a bright, sunny window. Ensure it’s not too close to the window, or the leaves may burn.
Rotate the plant every week or two so that all its leaves get equal exposure to light. This will also help keep it from becoming lopsided.
Supplement natural light with an artificial grow light. This should be used in combination with natural sunlight, not as a substitute for it.
During winter, when days are shorter, and there is less natural light, try to maximize your Monstera’s sunlight by opening curtains or blinds during daylight hours.
Make sure your Monstera is not in a location that gets too much direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
2. Watering
Mint Monstera Variegated needs moderate watering and should be watered once every 1-2 weeks or so, with less water during winter when growth slows.
You can check the soil dryness with a finger or moisture meter test and water when the top 2 inches of soil is dry, or if you’re using a moisture meter, it should give you a reading of 3.
Mint Monstera Variegated should be watered until the soil is completely saturated. Rainwater or distilled water at room temperature is the best option, as other water types may contain mineralized or chloramine water.
Add water slowly in each pour and allow it to soak, ensuring drainage holes are present, and the drain tray is emptied, and avoiding getting the leaves wet.
Signs of Underwatering
- Leaves turn yellow or pale green
- Leaves become dry, brittle, and crispy
- Curled or limp stems and leaves
- Brown spots on the leaves
- Slow growth of new leaves or branches compared to healthy ones
- Wilting of lower leaves or the entire plant
- Stunted growth
- Root system turning pale or brownish in color
- Unhealthy-looking root systems with a dry appearance
Signs of Overwatering
- Wilting Leaves
- Soil That Remains Too Wet
- Root Rot
- Fungal Growth on Soil or Leaves
- Drooping Flowers or Fruits
- Stunted Growth
- Swelling at the plant base
3. Temperature
Monstera deliciosa mint plants make great additions to any indoor environment, but you may have wondered what temperature you need to keep them in.
Mint monstera variegated plants thrive best in warmer environments and therefore prefer a temperature range of 65-85℉ (18-29 degrees celsius).
This is because these plants require high levels of humidity and warmth, making the ideal climate for this species a warm and humid one.
Factors that Affect Temperature
Humidity: To increase the humidity levels in your home, you can use a humidifier, mist the plant regularly, or group plants together to create a more humid environment.
Sunlight: In cooler temperatures, a monstera can tolerate more direct sunlight than in warmer temperatures. So if you live in an area with warm winters, move your plant away from the window during the summer.
Location: If you place your plant in a spot that gets lots of direct sunlight, it can cause the temperature to increase quickly. In a shady spot, then the temperature won’t be as warm.
Seasons: Cool seasons tend to decrease the temperature, so if you’re growing monstera indoors, provide extra warmth during wintertime.
Tips for Maintaining Optimal Temperature
- Place the plant near an east-facing window for morning sunlight.
- Keep away from air conditioners and heaters.
- Provide extra protection if the temperature outside drops below 50°F.
- Ensure a gentle breeze, especially on warmer days.
Signs your Monstera mint plant environment maybe be too cold
- Yellowing leaves
- Curled leaves.
- Black or Brown spots
- Slow growth.
- No flowers.
- Falling leaves
Signs your Monstera mint temperature is too high
- Monstera leaves wilt
- Dry leaves
- Yellow leaves
- Falling leaves
- Dry and sunburned monstera leaves
4. Humidity
Mint Monstera Variegated requires specific humidity levels for ideal growth and health. The humidity levels should range between 60% and 80%, as too little or too much can cause damage to the plant.
In areas with a warm and tropical climate, the air is typically sufficient to maintain a healthy level of humidity for Mint monstera. For more accurate readings, use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels. To monitor the humidity to ensure that your Mint Monstera Variegated stays healthy and happy.
You can increase the humidity exposed to your plant by misting it daily with water or implementing a humidifier into the room. This will help keep its leaves glossy and vibrant.
To ensure humidity, group plants to create a humid microclimate and ensure adequate humidity levels. You can also use a humidifier, mist the leaves with water, or set up a pebble tray filled with water to maintain the ideal humidity levels.
All in all, installing a hygrometer to measure and monitor humidity levels in your home or office is proper.
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
Mint Monstera Variegated should be positioned and placed in an area that has sufficient space, the right temperature, and humidity. For optimal success, the plant should be near an east-facing window where it can receive indirect light.
If the window is south or west-facing, sheer curtains or fabric should be used to provide bright filtered light. Keep the plant at least 2-4 feet away from any direct light sources so that it can properly thrive and grow.
Do not place your monstera plant in the following places:
- Bedrooms
- Direct sun after 9:00 AM.
- Direct light in a south- or west-facing window
- Crowded spaces
- Close to heaters or ACs
6. Fertilizer
Mint Monstera Variegated fertilization requires medium needs. Meaning you should apply balanced houseplant fertilizer. The plant does not need much fertilizer but will grow more if you fertilize them just a little.
Some of the reasons it is advisable to fertilize monstera are:
- Several Potting soils are enriched with some nutrients but not all that the plant requires.
- Potting soil nutrients get depleted after a while.
- Fertilization will help the plant reach its full potential
- Fertilizers provide vitamins for the plant
The main group of nutrients for the Mint Monstera Variegated plant are macronutrients and micronutrients.
Macro is required in large doses by the plant and includes nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Iron, Copper–Boron, Zinc, Chlorine, and Nickel are micronutrients.
Whether micro or macro fertilizers, ensure you d not over-fertilize the plant. Fertilize 1-2 times every month during its active spring and summer growth cycles. However, during the dormant phase, refrain from fertilizing your plant.
Moreover, you should wait at least a month before fertilizing after transplanting or repotting due to the presence of fertilizer in many potting soils.
Make sure you go for the best monstera fertilizer because a random selection of any fertilizer can cause strain to the plant.
For instance, you can use organic fertilizers since they are slowly releasing, but they burn your plant’s roots because of their high salt content.
Some gardeners recommend granular fertilizer, but they will burn the plant and cause irreplaceable damage to your Mint Monstera Variegated.
How to Apply Fertilizer
To grow Mint Monstera Variegated plant indoors successfully, dilute liquid fertilizer to half of its suggested strength.
For instance, if the manufacturer recommends one teaspoon per gallon, only use half that amount – a mere ½ teaspoon per gallon. This will both dilute the fertilizer and protect your plant from any potential burning or damage.
If your Mint Monstera Variegated plant is outdoors, closely adhere to the exact instructions on the label.
Fertilized correctly, your house plant will have the following:
i. Improved soil structure-Fertilizing will increase your soil structure, improving its ability to retain water and oxygen.
ii. Rapid growth-Regular fertilizing routine will help your Monstera grow and reach its full potential. It will also help promote larger leaves, more stems, and increased flowering.
iii. Balanced nutrients: Fertilizing will provide Mint Monstera Variegated with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and balanced.
iv. Stronger resistance to pests and diseases-Pests and diseases can easily affect Mint Monstera Variegated plants if their nutrient levels are low. Fertilizing will help the plant stay strong and resist these problems.
Additional Tips for Fertilizing Monstera Plants
- Nourish your Mint Monstera Variegated plant with nutrient-rich, all-natural compost for optimal growth. Organic compost is the perfect way to recreate a plant’s natural habitat and promote strong, healthy growth. Worm casting particularly enables this, providing an excellent base for your soil.
- If you don’t have compost available, another option is to create your own fertilizer. You can try blending organic banana peels with water for a natural, nitrogen-rich alternative to plant food.
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
Prune your Mint Monstera Variegated Care plant to maintain its overall health. Pruning helps to get rid of old foliage, preventing potential infections like stem rot and also managing the size of the plant.
It is best to do so in early spring when the plant is preparing for high growth and can recover quickly. Pruning should be avoided during the winter when the plant is in dormancy and its ability to generate glucose for growth may be hindered.
By pruning regularly, you can ensure your plant remains healthy and strong.
You will need particular tools to help you with the activity. You must have protective gloves, sharp pruning shears, a clean rag, gloves, and a sterilizer.
While pruning, cut out the old and diseased leaves. You can trim the roots if they are outgrowing the plot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid when Pruning your plant.
- Cutting too many stems
- Using blunt pruning shear
- Pruning during the plant’s dormancy stage
- Pruning a young monstera
- Pruning bare hand
8. Propagating
If you are looking to propagate your Mint Monstera Variegated, there are three primary methods to choose from, including stem cuttings, air layering, and division.
Following these simple steps, you can quickly grow a new Mint Monstera Variegated plant.
i. Stem cutting
To propagate your Mint Monstera Variegated plant using a stem cutting, start by selecting a healthy stem with at least two leaves.
Use a sharp, sterile pruning shear to remove the stem, making sure to cut at a 45-degree angle. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location but away from direct sunlight. After a few weeks, roots will form, and you’ll notice new growth.
ii. Air layering
Start by selecting a healthy stem and remove a section of bark approximately two inches long from the middle of the stem.
Apply rooting hormone to the exposed area, wrap it with damp sphagnum moss, and cover the moss with plastic wrap, securing it with a rubber band or twist tie.
Keep the moss moist, and within a few weeks, roots will start to form. Once the roots are established, cut the stem below the moss and plant it in a potting mix.
iii. Division
If your Mint Monstera Variegated plant has outgrown its pot, you can propagate it by dividing the root system.
Gently remove the plant from its pot and carefully separate the roots into two or more sections, ensuring each section has sufficient roots and shoots.
Replant each section in a well-draining potting mix and water thoroughly. Keep the newly divided plants in a warm and bright location away from direct sunlight, and monitor for growth.
10. Potting & Repotting
Repotting Mint Monstera Variegated allows the roots to spread out and receive more nutrients from the soil. This will ensure the plant gets all the minerals and vitamins it needs to grow.
Repotting help also helps to refresh the potting mix by removing any old and decaying matter, thereby ensuring that the soil is still healthy for the plant’s growth.
You will save your plant from mint monstera rootbound. This a condition where the roots are so tightly packed that they can’t function and grow properly.
Therefore, by repotting, you will be freeing up some space in the soil and allowing new roots to come through, leading to healthier and more vigorous growth.
To repot Mint Monstera Variegated, choose a new pot for your plant. Find the best monstera planter pot with drainage holes to let water out and ensure it’s bigger than the old one.
Fill up the pot about 1/4 of the way with a special monstera soil mix that has nutrients in it. Carefully take your plant out of its old container, trim some of its roots, and put it in the new pot.
Give your monstera plenty of water but wait a month before giving it any fertilizer.
The most important thing is to look out for signs whenever your monstera plant needs repotting. These include:
- If your Monstera is diseased,
- When roots are spreading out of drainage holes
- Yellowing leaves
- Stagnant growth
- If potting mix is drying out too fast.
11. Soil Drainage and Aeration
Good soil drainage and aeration are essential for Mint Monstera Variegated to thrive. The ideal soil mixture should contain organic matter and be light, with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.
If the pH is too low, add lime to raise it, while sulfur can lower it when too high. The soil should be slightly damp, which can be achieved with the monstera soil mix.
In addition, proper soil aeration will supply the roots with oxygen for optimum growth and health. With these aspects in mind, you can ensure that your Mint Monstera Variegated plant has the best chance of thriving.
To make the DIY soil mix for monstera, combine 5 parts of orchid bark with 2 parts of worm castings and 4 parts of coir.
Add 2 parts of activated charcoal and 5 parts of perlite to the mixture. Mix everything together thoroughly until it has the desired consistency.
Break up any clumps that may have formed, then finally add a light layer of moss on the top for extra moisture retention.
Other best commercial potting mix for Mint Monstera Variegated are:
- Premium Monstera Potting Soil
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- Sun Gro Horticulture Black Gold 1310102 8-Quart All-Purpose Potting Mix
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Signs the Soil Isn’t Suitable for Mint Monstera Variegated
- Mushy roots
- Yellow spots
- Brown spots
- Drooping leaves
- Slow growth
Toxicity of Mint Monstera Variegated Plant
The mint monstera is toxic for pets and humans. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that can be harmful if touched or eaten. However, the fruit is only toxic while raw; there are many monstera fruit benefits when it is ripe.
Pets like cats and dogs may drool, vomit, have difficulty swallowing, and feel pain in the mouth or throat if they eat it. Keep the plant away from them to ensure your furry friends are safe.
If you think your pet has eaten some of this plant, call a vet or the ASPCA Poison Control Center immediately. Keep kids away from the Mint Monstera Variegated while raw since it is dangerous.
Common Problems with Mint Monstera Variegated Plant
Here is a list of common problems found in the Mint Monstera Variegated Plant:
1. Pests Infestation
Pest infestation is a common problem among Mint Monstera Variegated plants, as they can be easily targeted by a variety of pests such as thrips, mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
To help prevent thrips and other plant insects, regularly monitor your plant for signs of pests and take immediate action if you detect any. This includes simply wiping off the pests with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oils to target them.
Keeping your plant in a clean environment and providing adequate ventilation to deter pest infestations.
2. Diseases
Common diseases affecting these plants include mint monstera root rot, bacterial blight, and fungal leaf spot.
You can avoid this problem by watering moderately to prevent soggy soil, fungi, and other bacteria breed. You can also prune away the diseased parts and treat the area with a fungicide or insecticide whenever you notice signs of monstera pests and disease.
3. Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves on a Mint Monstera Variegated Plant are caused by too much direct sunlight, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency.
Give your plant the right amount of sunlight and water, above all providing it with all the necessary nutrients. In case of any yellowing sign move the plant to a shadier spot and check the soil for moisture levels.
4. Slow Growth
Slow growth of a Mint Monstera Variegated Plant results from inadequate light level or too much fertilizer.
To revive the plant’s growth, give it plenty of indirect sunlight and water it regularly. You can also use dilute fertilizer that is specifically designed for variegated plants.
5. Root Rot
Root rot on a Mint Monstera Variegated Plant is caused by overwatering or poor drainage.
For this reason, water your plant only when the top inch of the soil has dried. It is also safer to use well-draining soil and check for drainage holes in the pot.
6. Leaves Dropping
Dropping leaves are caused by too much direct sunlight, underwatering, or pest infestation.
Therefore, give your plant bright indirect sunlight and water, as you inspect it regularly for signs of pests. If you notice pest infestations, treat them promptly with an appropriate insecticide.
7. Leaves Turning Brown
Brown monstera leaves result from direct sunlight or nutrient deficiency. Make sure to give your plant the right amount of sunlight and water while feeding it medium fertilizer.
You can also move your plant to a shadier spot and check the soil for moisture levels in case it is too dry.
Uses of Mint Monstera Variegated
Purifying Air Quality-Mint Monstera Variegated is a natural air purifier that has the ability to absorb chemicals and toxins from the air. It is often used in indoor areas with high levels of pollution or contaminants, helping to keep the air clean and fresh.
Aromatherapy-This monstera plant emits a pleasant scent of mint when crushed or rubbed, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy. The aroma is among some of the monstera’s plant benefits, believed to act as a natural stress reliever and can help to reduce anxiety.
Decoration-Mint Monstera Variegated is also attractive with its unique light green variegations. Its classic swiss cheese foliage makes a great decoration in any home or office space due to its striking appearance.
Things to Avoid When Dealing with Mint Monstera Variegated Plant
- Direct sunlight
- Putting the plant next to an air conditioner or heater
- Overwatering or underwatering
- Closed and congested spaces
- Fertilization after repotting
- Cutting too many stems while pruning
- Dense potting mix
Conclusion
Mint Monstera Variegated is an excellent addition to any houseplant collection. They are easy to care for, and their stripy, monstrose foliage adds interesting texture and vibrancy to any space.
Their broad nature means that they’re sure to stand out amongst other houseplants but also give some privacy to your home. An added bonus may be that if kept in a shady area, you can enjoy the beautiful display of variegation all year round.
By following all the care guide steps, you’ll have an attractive display, maintaining the mint colored variegation all year.
So why not take a chance and start building up your houseplant collection with Mint Monstera Variegated?
