Monstera plants have become increasingly popular as indoor plants in recent years, with their striking foliage and unique growth patterns. Two of the most popular Monstera plants are the Monstera Albo Variegata and the Monstera Borsigiana. These plants share many similar characteristics, causing plant lovers to confuse the two Monstera species.
Below, we will explore the similarities and differences between the Monstera Albo variegata and Monstera borsigiana and help you understand how to care for these beautiful houseplants.
Monstera Albo Variegata
Monstera Albo Variegata is a version of the variegated Monstera Deliciosa plant, with stunning green and white leaves. The Monstera deliciosa variegata is found in the tropical rainforests of Central and South America.
However, the Monstera albo vareigata is an extremely rare plant. The variegation on the leaves is caused by a naturally occurring genetic mutation that affects the plant’s ability to produce chlorophyll. This results in white or pale green areas on the leaves, creating a unique and eye-catching pattern.
Monstera Deliciosa Borsigiana
Monstera Borsigiana is a smaller and more compact version of the Monstera Deliciosa and is often confused as a Monstera adansonii; and is scientifically known as the Monstera deliciosa var borsigiana.
The borsigiana plant has smaller leaves, and the Monstera deliciosa grows slower, while the true deliciosa has characteristic large leaves. This plant is native to Central and South America and is known for its easy-to-care-for nature and adaptability to different environments.
The borsigiana is often called the Swiss cheese plant like the deliciosa but is a different variation of the Monstera deliciosa instead of a different plant species.
Monstera Albo Variegata vs Borsigiana: Key Similarities
While the Monstera albo variegata and Monstera deliciosa borsigiana may look quite different at first glance, there are many similarities between them.
Below are some of the main similarities between the two Monstera species.
Origin
Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana are members of the genus Monstera, which includes more than 50 different species of tropical vines and shrubs. These plants are native to Central and South America and grow in the rainforest canopy.
Despite their different appearances, both Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana are part of the plant family Araceae, which consists of aroid plants.
This is one of the reasons why the two plants share many of the same characteristics and can be cared for in similar ways. Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana are popular houseplants, appreciated for their striking foliage and tropical appearance.
Leaf structure
Another similarity between these two Monstera plants is the structure of their leaves. Both Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana have large and deeply lobed leaves, which give them a distinctive tropical appearance.
The juvenile leaves are dark green in both plants, and the mature leaves become lighter. As a mature plant, it begins to form glossy leaves that have a smooth texture.
The leaves of both plants have fenestration: holes or splits. These fenestrations are an adaptive feature of the Monstera species that allows it to survive in the tropical rainforests’ strong winds and allow light to penetrate the plant and reach the lower leaves.
However, you won’t be able to tell the difference in juvenile plants as fenestrated leaves grow when the plant matures.
Stem Structure
The Monstera albo variegata and Monstera deliciosa have brown stems that elongate as the plants grow. The stem is responsible for the vining growth of the plants.
Moreover, the nodes of the stems are equally spaced apart and develop aerial roots. The aerial roots anchor the plants to a support structure, such as a forest tree or a moss pole. The aerial root can absorb moisture, help with nutrient uptake from the surrounding, and help support plant growth.
Propagation
Both Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana can be propagated using stem cuttings. This means that you can easily grow new plants from existing ones.
Cut a stem from the parent plant, allow it to dry for a few days, and then plant it in moist soil. The cutting will take root and grow into a new plant with proper care.
Toxicity
Both the Monstera deliciosa variegata and borsigiana are toxic to humans and pets (especially cats and dogs). These plants contain calcium oxalate that can cause skin and eye irritation if it comes into contact.
The toxic chemical can lead to stomachache, digestive problems, mouth and throat burn, and vomiting if ingested.
Growing Conditions
While there are some differences in the care requirements for Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana, there are also some similarities.
Bright Indirect Sunlight
Monstera plants thrive in bright, indirect light. In their native habitat, these plants are accustomed to bright indirect light from the forest canopy.
However, bright direct sunlight can cause their leaves to burn. Placing your Monstera Albo Variegata or Monstera Borsigiana in a spot with bright indirect light will help them grow strong and healthy.
Well-Drained Soil.
Monstera plants prefer well-draining and well-aerated soil that allows for good air circulation around their roots. This helps prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged, which can cause root rot and other issues.
You can use a commercially available potting mix made for the aroid plant. A good soil mix for Monstera plants can include a blend of peat moss, perlite, and bark to improve drainage and moisture retention.
Watering
While Monstera plants can tolerate some drought, they generally prefer to be kept evenly moist.
This means watering them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so keeping the soil from staying soggy for too long is essential. However, underwatering could lead to dehydration and wilting.
Generally, you can water your Monstera plant once a week during the growing seasons and once every two weeks in the winter. Plant your Monstera in a pot with adequate drainage holes to avoid overwatering.
Pests
Monstera plants are susceptible to household pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye out for any infestation.
If you notice signs of pests, isolate the Monstera plant and treat it with pesticides. You can use neem oil to prevent future infestations.
Monstera Albo Variegata vs Borsigiana: Key Differences
While these plants share some similarities, some notable differences set them apart.
Below are some main differences between Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana.
Size
One of the most noticeable differences between Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera deliciosa Borsigiana is their size.
Monstera Albo Variegata is a large climbing plant that can grow up to ten feet tall. In contrast, Monstera deliciosa Borsigiana is a smaller and more compact plant with a maximum height of around six feet.
This difference in size means that Monstera Albo Variegata requires more space to grow and is best suited to larger rooms or outdoor spaces. At the same time, Monstera Borsigiana is a great option for smaller apartments or homes.
Leaf shape
Another difference between these two plants is the shape of their leaves. Monstera Albo Variegata has large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to three feet long.
The leaves of Monstera deliciosa borsigiana are smaller and more oval-shaped, with a length of around one to two feet.
Additionally, the leaves of Monstera Albo Variegata are more deeply divided and have more pronounced holes, while the leaves of Monstera deliciosa borsigiana are more solid and have fewer splits.
Variegation
One of the unique features of Monstera Albo Variegata leaves is their variegation. This plant has green and white leaves, with the white areas caused by a genetic mutation that affects the plant’s ability to produce chlorophyll. This creates a striking pattern on the leaves that are highly sought after by plant collectors.
Monstera deliciosa Borsigiana, on the other hand, has solid green leaves without any variegation. While the Monstera deliciosa leaves can appear yellow, it is due to environmental stress rather than an innate characteristic.
Growth rate
Another difference between these two plants is their growth rate. Monstera Albo Variegata is a slower-growing plant compared to Monstera deliciosMonstera variegationMonstera variegationMonstera variegationMonstera variegationMonstera variegationa borsigiana, which can grow quite quickly under the right conditions.
This slower growth rate means that Monstera Albo Variegata requires less frequent pruning and is less likely to outgrow its space. At the same time, Monstera deliciosa borsigiana may need more frequent trimming to keep it in check.
Geniculum
The most notable difference between the Monstera albo and Monstera deliciosa borsigiana is the geniculum. The geniculum is the structure just below the leaf, joining the main stem.
The Monstera albo variegata has a wrinkled geniculum that increases the leaf’s flexibility to survive strong winds. On the other hand, the Monstera deliciosa borsigiana has a straight geniculum.
Care requirements
While both Monstera Albo Variegata and Monstera Borsigiana share some basic care requirements, there are differences in how these plants should be cared for.
Monstera Albo Variegata prefers bright, indirect light, while Monstera Borsigiana can tolerate lower light levels. However, the Monstera deliciosa variegata is more light-sensitive as it contains less chlorophyll.
Additionally, Monstera Albo Variegata is more sensitive to cold temperatures and should be kept above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, while Monstera Borsigiana can tolerate cooler temperatures.
To Conclude
While Monstera Albo, borsigiana, and deliciosa are the same plant family, there are also some key differences between these plants. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right plant for your space and provide the best care for your Monstera.
Whether you opt for the striking variegation of Monstera Albo Variegata or the compact size of Monstera Borsigiana, both plants will bring a touch of tropical beauty to your home as you fill it with distinct species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Monstera sierrana rare?
The onstera sierrana is one of the most rare Monstera varieites. The sierrana is found scarcely in the tropical regions of South America and Mexico and is characterized by its light green leaves with deep cuts.
Can you get variegated Monstera sierrana?
Variegated plants appear as such because of a lack of chlorophyll in the leaves. For variegated Monstera plants, this occurs due to a natural mutation that causes abnormal chlorophyll production, resulting in variegated Monstera.
Theoretically, this variation is possible in every Monstera plant. However, there are no records of a variegated Monstera sierrana species, even if it exists.
What are some popular Monstera deliciosa varieties?
Other than a true Monstera deliciosa, some plant varieties are also popular as houseplants. This includes the Thai constellation Monstera, a cultivar of the original made through tissue culture in Thailand.
Many think they are separate species, but the Thai constellation is the same species as the albo variegata but exhibits stable variegation and smaller leaf size.
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.
