Variegated Monstera
Monstera deliciosa 'Albo Borsigiana'
Albo Borsigiana
About this plant
Monstera deliciosa 'Albo Borsigiana' is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with striking white variegation. It climbs using aerial roots and can grow quite large indoors. This plant adds a dramatic, exotic look to homes and offices and is appreciated for its air-purifying qualities.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Monstera
- Family
- Araceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Alismatales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southern Mexico, Panama
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated indoors worldwide; native to tropical rainforests of southern Mexico and Panama.
Care
- Light preference
- Bright indirect
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, North-facing, Northeast-facing, Northwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 18-26 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 5.5-7.0
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
Watering. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot. Increase humidity by misting or using a humidifier if air is dry.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
This plant is fairly easy to care for but needs moderate attention. It prefers indirect light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so allow the soil to dry between waterings. It benefits from occasional feeding and regular cleaning of leaves.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- rarely indoors, typically summer
Large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves with white variegation; dramatic split leaves as it matures; aerial roots add texture.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Keep away from children and pets; ingestion of leaves or stems can cause irritation and discomfort.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Monstera deliciosa 'Albo Borsigiana' may cause mild skin irritation in some people due to its sap. Avoid touching the sap and wash hands if contact occurs. It is not known to cause pollen allergies.
Common problems
Common problems include yellowing leaves from overwatering, brown leaf edges from low humidity or underwatering, and pests like spider mites or scale.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive variegated foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Notes
Prune to control size and remove damaged leaves. Repot every 1-2 years to refresh soil and accommodate growth. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F).