Monstera Albo Holland and Monstera Albo Japan are two variations of the variegated Monstera Deliciosa plant that are highly sought after by indoor plant enthusiasts.
Here, we will discuss some key similarities and differences between Monstera Albo Holland and Japan.
Monstera Albo Origin
Monstera albo is a variation of the popular Monstera Deliciosa plant with striking white variegation on its leaves. The Monstera deliciosa albo is found mainly in the tropical regions of southern Mexico and Panama.
The exact origin of Monstera albo is unclear, but it is believed to have originated from a spontaneous genetic mutation in a Monstera Deliciosa variegata plant in the wild.
The first recorded sighting of Monstera albo was in the late 19th century when a plant collector named Karl Koch discovered a plant with white variegation growing in the forests of Mexico.
Monstera Albo Holland vs. Japan: Key Similarities
Since the two plants are different versions of the Monstera deliciosa variegata, they share many distinct characteristics that make it difficult to tell the two apart.
Below are some of the main similarities between the Monstera albo plants.
Variegation
Both variegated Monstera plants have the characteristic white variegation on their leaves, which is caused by a genetic mutation that results in a lack of chlorophyll in certain areas of the Monstera deliciosa leaves.
The lack of green pigment creates a striking contrast between the green and white portions of the leaves, increasing their aesthetics.
Growth Rate
Another similarity between the two variegated Monstera species is their relatively slow growth rate. Monstera deliciosa is known as a slow grower, and the trait is only maximized in the Monstera deliciosa vareigata.
The variegated plant can take several years to reach maturity and may only produce a few new leaves per year.
The stems consist of internodes that develop aerial roots that help anchor the new growth to a tree or support such as a moss pole.
However, once they grow into mature Monstera plants, they are known to be relatively low-maintenance and long-lived, making them a popular choice for indoor enthusiasts.
Toxicity
The variegated Monstera deliciosa plants are toxic to pets and humans, especially cats and dogs. The sap of the Monstera plant contains calcium oxalate, which is toxic to the body and can cause stomach aches and digestive problems if ingested.
Growing Conditions
Both varieties of Monstera Deliciosa require similar care and maintenance. Therefore, you can grow both houseplants together.
Below are the main growing conditions of the two variegated Monstera plants:
Bright Indirect Light
The tropical plants thrive in six to eight hours of bright indirect light. However, keep the plants away from direct sunlight, which can lead to leaf scorching. Since a true Monstera deliciosa variegata does not have enough chlorophyll, The two variegated plants tend to be more sensitive to increased bright indirect light.
Regular Watering
In the growing seasons (summer and spring), you should water the Monstera plants once every week and once every two or three weeks in the winter.
However, you must pay close attention to your Monstera’s watering needs, as overwatering could lead to root rot and soggy soil, while underwatering could lead to wilting.
Before watering the Monstera deliciosa albo, check the top two inches of the soil with the tip of your finger. If it feels dry to the touch, you can water the Monstera.
Soil Mix
Monstera plants prefer slightly acidic soil of pH 5.0 to 5.7. You cannot use gardening soil for your variegated Monstera deliciosa plants, as they prefer well-aerated soil that allows air circulation.
You can use a potting mix that contains nutrients to ensure the plant grows faster. You can also add perlite, coco coir, and peat moss in the potting mix to improve drainage, as Monstera deliciosa prefers well-drained soil.
Pest and Diseases
The two variegated monsteras are susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections like root rot. If you suspect such a disease, check the mature leaves and root of the plant for signs, and treat the Monsteras with antifungal or antibacterial soap.
Similarly, pests such as thrips and spider mites are a common occurrence in houseplants. If you see signs of pests on the stem of smaller leaves, treat the plant with pesticide and add neem oil to prevent further infestations.
Monstera Albo Holland vs. Japan: Key Differences
Despite their many similarities, the Monstera deliciosa varieties have their share of differences that can help plant lovers tell the two plants apart.
Below are some main differences between the Monstera albo Holland and Japan.
Leaf Appearance
One of the most obvious differences between the two variegated Monstera varieties is the appearance of variegation on the green plant.
Monstera albo Holland typically features larger and more irregularly shaped white patches on its leaves, while Monstera albo Japan has smaller and more uniform white patches.
The variegation on Monstera albo Japan also tends to be more prominent and striking, with higher contrast between the green and white portions of the leaves.
Origin
Another difference between the two varieties is their origin. Monstera albo Holland is believed to have originated in the Netherlands, where it was selectively bred and propagated for its unique variegation pattern.
Monstera albo Japan, on the other hand, is believed to have been first produced in Japan through tissue culture propagation.
Growth Habit
Regarding size and growth habits, Monstera Albo Holland and Monstera Albo Japan can also differ slightly.
Monstera Albo Holland is known to have larger and broader leaves than Monstera Albo Japan with more splits, although this can vary depending on the individual plant.
Additionally, some growers have reported that Monstera Albo Holland may be a slightly slower-growing plant than Monstera Albo Japan, although both varieties have a reputation for being relatively slow-growing compared to other Monstera species.
Price
Another difference between the two varieties is their availability and cost.
Monstera albo Japan is generally considered rarer and more expensive than Monstera albo Holland due to its more striking variegation and the fact that it is only produced in limited quantities.
Monstera albo Holland, on the other hand, is more widely available and can be purchased at a more affordable price point.
You might pay less if you purchase a green seed of the rare plant rather than a whole plant, but you can also buy stem cuttings at lower prices.
Types of Monstera Deliciosa Variegata Plants
Monstera deliciosa, the Swiss Cheese Plant, has become increasingly popular recently, especially in its variegated forms.
Here are some of the most common types of variegated Monstera deliciosa plants:
Monstera Deliciosa Albo-Variegata
This is one of the most popular and sought-after varieties of Monstera deliciosa. It has green leaves with snowy white variegation, and the variegation can range from small splashes to large patches. The Albo-Variegata is highly prized and often sells for a premium price due to its rarity and striking appearance.
Monstera Deliciosa Aurea-Variegata
This variety has green leaves with yellow variegation, creating a beautiful contrast between the colors. The Aurea-Variegata is less common than the Albo-Variegata, but is still highly sought after by plant collectors.
Monstera Deliciosa Thai Constellation
This newer variety of Monstera deliciosa was developed through tissue culture propagation. It has green leaves with creamy white, speckled variegation, and small, random splashes of pink. The Thai Constellation is highly sought for its unique variegation pattern and rarity.
Monstera Deliciosa Albo Borsigiana Variegata
This variety is similar to the Albo-Variegata, but is a smaller and more compact plant. It has green leaves with white variegation and is often called the “Mini Monstera” due to its smaller size.
Conclusion
While Monstera albo Holland and Monstera albo Japan share many similarities in their care requirements and striking white variegation, there are also some notable differences between them. Whether you choose one or the other, both Monstera albo Holland and Monstera albo Japan are sure to add a touch of tropical elegance to any home decor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many types of Monstera Albo plants are there?
There are several varieties of the Monstera albo based on their location. Since Monstera deliciosa albo is a popular plant worldwide, the Monstera specie is cultivated in several parts of the world.
The differing geographical location, environmental conditions, and growth requirements have given rise to several varieties of the Monstera albo.
Which variegated Monstera plant is best?
All variegated Monsteras are created equal, and all are beautiful plants that can help you improve the aesthetics of your home. Among the variegated Monstera plants, the Monstera adansonii albo vareigata and Monstera borsigiana albo variegata are the most popular variegated plants due to their unique characteristics, splits, and holes.
What are the differences between Monstera Thai Constellation and Monstera Albo?
Monstera Thai constellation is a tissue-cultured deliciosa, while Monstera albo is a naturally found plant. One of the key differences between these two plants is the appearance of the Monstera leaves.
Monstera Thai constellation has much larger leaves with cream-colored or light yellow variegations that appear haphazardly around the leaf. The Monstera albo leaves are smaller and feature completely white and stable variegation that covers around half of the leaf.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
