In this article, we will tell you everything there is to know about the Monstera aurea variegata plant.
Keep on reading to learn:
- Monstera aurea care tips
- Variegated monstera plants
- How to propagate monstera aurea
- Its varieties
And more!
Genus
The Monstera aurea variegata is one of many Monstera plants belonging to the Monstera genus.
The genus comprises more than 30 accepted species of plants and over 100 different types, which include variegated monstera plants and subspecies.
All these species, subspecies, and variegated types of Monsteras genus differ in leaf shape and size, overall plant size, color distribution and patterns, and color variation.
Common Names
The Monstera aurea is known by many names owing to its unique variegation.
One of the most sought-after variegated monstera plants, it is known worldwide by several names, such as:
- Monstera deliciosa aurea
- Monstera borsigiana aurea
- Monstera marmorata
- Yellow variegated Monstera
The Monstera aurea also goes by the names Monstera aurea variegata and variegated Monstera aurea.
All these names refer to the same plant.
Botanical Names
The botanical name for this trendy variegated monstera variety is Monstera aurea.
It belongs to the aroid family, which is also known as the Araceae family. However, the Monstera aurea is particularly popular due to its yellow variegation, which sets it apart from other varieties.
Varieties of Monstera Aurea
Monstera aurea variegata has become an umbrella term for many yellow variegated monstera plants.
Variegated plants are not uncommon in the Monstera genus. However, the pigmentation is typically marked by a complete lack of chlorophyll, which gives the leaves a white color.
On the other hand, the Monstera aurea plant features beautiful yellow variegation and split leaves.
While the original Monstera aurea is a type of variegated Monstera deliciosa, many other yellow variegated monstera plants now fall under the term “aurea.”
Furthermore, aurea variegata from the Monstera deliciosa and Monstera adansonii plants is sometimes called the Swiss cheese plant. However, the name is meant for non-variegated true deliciosa and Monstera adansonii plants.
Monstera Standleyana Aurea
The standleyana is a variety of the Monstera borsigiana aurea with oval-shaped, glossy, deep-green leaves.
The variegated plant has markings on its leaves, which can be speckled, streaked, or marbled. In addition to the yellow variegation, it also has half-moon markings on the leaves.
Monstera Deliciosa Aurea/ True Deliciosa Aurea
The Monstera deliciosa aurea is arguably the most popular variegated Monstera aurea type. It has glossy, heart-shaped green leaves which have both fenestrations and splits. The fenestrations, or holes, can cause indents on the leaves, causing them to split.
Furthermore, the markings on this Monstera aurea include blotches, streaks, splashes, half-moons, and even marbling patterns.
Monstera Adansonii Aurea
This Monstera aurea variegata variety is characterized by deep green leaves and glossy fenestrations.
It is also one of the more unique varieties since its fenestration does not cause the leaves to split like the Monstera deliciosa aurea.
Monstera Variegated Peru
This variegated Monstera is the only Monstera aurea variegata variety whose leaves remain constant through all stages of maturity.
Their shape is ovate and elongated with yellow variegations and light green markings.
Other variegated varieties of Monstera plants include:
- Monstera albo variegata/ Monstera borsigiana albo/ albo variegata
- Monstera Thai constellation
- Monstera mint
- Monstera obliqua/ Monstera adansonii obliqua
Origin Of Monstera Aurea
The Monstera borsigiana aurea is native to Central America, including Panama and Mexico.
Many varieties, like the Thai constellation, Monstera albo, Monstera obliqua, and Monstera mint originated as spontaneous mutations.
The same is the case with Monstera borsigiana aurea. The burning question regarding the variegated plant is: is the Monstera aurea stable?
The short answer is yes, but from a genetic standpoint, variegation occurs from spontaneous mutations in the plant cell’s DNA.
Since spontaneous mutations rarely ever pass on to progeny, it’s not possible to propagate variegated monstera plants through seeds.
Therefore, even though the Monstera aurea originated in the wild, most plants today are sold as cuttings of parent Monstera aurea plants or as cultivars grown in labs.
Just remember that stable variations are extremely rare, which is what makes a variegated plant so popular.
Care Guidelines
Monstera aurea care guidelines are pretty straightforward. The Monstera plants are not high maintenance, whether they are variegated plants or non-variegated Monsteras.
Your Monstera aurea requires ideal potting soil, the correct temperature, bright indirect light, adequate watering, and optimum humidity levels to grow well.
You can grow your plant indoors and outdoors, although outdoor plant size is always larger.
Light
Since these plants grow in tropical climates in jungles, they rarely receive direct sunlight.
Therefore, you can easily grow them indoors in indirect light. Variegated plants do not have adequate chlorophyll to utilize the sun.
The absence of green color in a variegated plant accurately indicates a lack of chlorophyll. You can notice this in the Thai constellation, Monstera albo variegata, Monstera mint, Monstera obliqua, and many variegated Monstera deliciosa plants.
Exposing these plants and the aurea variegata to direct, bright light can damage the leaves and cause sun-scald.
Avoiding direct sunlight is particularly important during the growing season when the light is intense. Exposure to it during the summertime can spell trouble for healthy leaves, and they might lose their vigor or variegation. They can also wilt and die as a result.
On the other hand, too little light or placing the aurea variegata in full shade will also be detrimental to plant health. Your Monstera aurea requires ample indirect light to grow well, so you should place it near a north or south-facing window.
Watering
The monstera aurea plant’s roots require a lot of moisture and humidity, so you’ll need to water the plants thoroughly.
However, be sure not to overwater the plants since the Monstera aurea and all variegated varieties are prone to root rot.
Ideally, it would help if you watered your aurea plants once or twice a week during summertime and only once a week during winter.
Compared to insufficient light, overwatering or underwatering are the quickest ways to kill your plant. In fact, other plants at your home can also become affected if you’re growing them in the same pots or on the ground.
Therefore, always check the first two inches of the topsoil before watering your aurea plant. When you do water, only stop once you observe the excess water leaving the drainage holes.
Humidity
Since the aurea plant is a tropical perennial, it thrives in humid environments.
65%-90% humidity is best for the Monstera aurea plant, and it cannot survive below 50% humidity.
However, maintaining such high levels can be extremely difficult, especially in arid areas.
You can increase the moisture level by using good quality potting soil, keeping a water-filled pebble tray under the plant, or using mist fans and humidifiers.
Similarly, grouping the Monstera deliciosa aurea with other plants will do the trick. Watch out for signs like browning since these might be symptoms of inadequate humidity.
Fertilizer
Your Monstera deliciosa aurea won’t have demanding fertilizing requirements. However, providing extra nutrition twice or thrice a year will do the trick.
Many growers also go for fertilizing once a month, but it depends on the quality of your potting mix. Only a few healthy leaves on an otherwise large plant indicate its nutritional requirements are not met.
Whether you’re fertilizing once a month or thrice yearly, apply it six inches away from the plant and water it thoroughly. You don’t want it to burn the plant roots.
Organic slow-release fertilizer is the go-to choice for many growers, although we suggest a liquid feed. A diluted liquid feed will require more frequent applications, but it’s based on organic matter and won’t damage your plant!
You’ll also have to feed your plant in the winter months, although it will be dormant.
Finally, remember not to over-fertilize your Monstera aurea, especially a new plant. Like the Thai constellation and Monstera obliqua, it is an extremely rare plant, and you don’t want it dying on you.
Soil Mix Recommendations
Like its cousins, the Thai constellation, Monstera borsigiana albo, Monstera deliciosa variegata, and Monstera adansonii, the Monstera marmorata aurea thrives in well-draining soil.
Soggy soil can lead to root rot, while stagnant water can drown the aerial roots. Therefore, always use a well-draining soil mix since it can release excess moisture and prevents waterlogging.
Excluding these issues, the Monstera plant loves moist soil. The ideal soil for your plant will be a well-drained potting mix, rich in organic matter and with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0.
Avoid both heavy and sandy soils. While the former will retain too much water, the latter will drain very quickly and release too much of it.
Using a mixture of sphagnum moss, perlite, horticultural charcoal, and compost for your plant will be perfect, or you could always buy a commercially manufactured mix from a nursery.
Pot Types and Pot Sizes
Like all other variegated Monsteras, the Monstera deliciosa aurea does not grow as vigorously as your average non-variegated plant.
Therefore, you can start with a small-to-medium-sized pot for a young plant. A stem cutting should preferably be grown in a nursery pot.
You can increase pot size, add vertical support, and use a hanging basket once you plan for repotting.
All pots and containers should have plenty of drainage holes to keep your plant Monstera deliciosa aurea healthy.
Repotting
There are two reasons for repotting: when the plant gets root-bound and when the soil becomes too stiff, preventing air from reaching the roots.
Repotting should preferably be done in spring when the Monstera deliciosa aurea variegata experiences the most growth.
You tip the pot to one side and use a trowel to lever out the plant. Pulling it out will damage the stem.
Massage the root ball to loosen up the old, dry soil and eliminate as much as possible. Plant the Monstera in new soil, in a pot two to three inches larger than the old one.
Top with more soil and thoroughly water the plant to help it settle. Transplant shock and drooping are natural after repotting, so you shouldn’t worry too much.
Adding support like a moss pole will help your growing plant’s vertical growth. Monstera plants are excellent climbers!
Ideal Growing Zones
Since the Monstera aurea variegata thrives in tropical climates, USDA Zones 9b to 11 is perfect for the plant.
In fact, you can easily propagate a new plant outdoors and keep it there all year round!
Propagation
Although the plant has stable variegation, variegated plants cannot grow from seeds.
Instead, they are grown from stem cuttings and tissue cultures of other variegated plants.
You can also use Monstera aurea cuttings to propagate a new plant, and here’s how:
- Take 4-5 inch stem cuttings from the leaf nodes.
- Prune the leaves near the cut end.
- Plant the cuttings in a pot with well-draining soil.
- Ensure the leaf node is buried deep into the soil.
- You can prune the aerial roots, although we don’t recommend it. They can help your cuttings root faster.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Place the pot in a warm, humid spot that receives bright indirect sunlight.
Your plant should root within 4-6 weeks.
Pests and Diseases
Your plant will commonly suffer from two pests, spider mites and mealybugs. These can rapidly reproduce and turn into an infestation.
You can get rid of them by spraying them with water. For a more robust approach, you can use insecticidal soap spray or, our favorite, neem oil.
Neem oil is perfect for warding off numerous pests and keeps the plant healthy.
Root rot is the most dangerous disease you should worry about as it can quickly kill a healthy plant.
To avoid the disease, let the soil dry between each watering. Use fresh soil for repotting, and ensure your pots have drainage holes.
These tips and a correct watering routine will keep your plant healthy and problem-free!
Foliage & Leaf Shapes
In contrast to the Thai constellation and albo variegata, the Monstera aurea variegata has beautiful yellow variegations on the plant in a splotchy pattern.
Like the albo variegata, the Monstera deliciosa aurea variegata has compact oval-shaped leaves.
The variegation on the leaves is also less frequent than in other varieties, and some leaves might not have it altogether.
Growth and Maturation
The Monstera aurea variegata has a moderate growth rate. It grows fastest in spring and summer, while growth ceases during the winters.
Similarly, the plant ceases growth when subjected to insufficient light, a consequence of its variegation, which causes a lack of chlorophyll.
Your Monstera aurea variegata plant can reach approximately 120 to 200 inches in vertical height, although indoor plant height might be reduced.
Lastly, its leaves might not grow more than 2 feet in diameter at full maturity.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Two common problems plague the Monstera aurea variegata.
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves should not be confused with yellow variegations. The latter is a genetic mutation, while the former results from overwatering.
Overwatering is the biggest threat to your plant, as we’re sure you’ve already learned by now.
If you’re observing many yellow leaves, it might be time to shovel out the plant to examine its roots.
If you observe rotting, grab a pair of sterilized clippers and remove all affected regions. Replant your Monstera aurea into fresh soil, and avoid fertilizing to let it acclimatize.
Brown Tips and Leaves
Browning is commonly caused by over-and-underwatering. You will need to check the soil to confirm the exact cause.
For dry soil, increasing the moisture content will do the trick, while for wet soil, you’ll need to repot your plant to avoid root rot.
Repotting is not always necessary, but avoiding problems beforehand is a safer option.
Where to Buy & Price
The Monstera aurea is an extremely rare plant because of its yellow variegations and high demand.
We only recommend buying from reputable sellers, most of which you will find on Etsy.
The plant can cost anywhere between $200 to several thousand, depending on whether you’re going for a cutting or a mature plant.
Toxicity to People & Pets
The Monstera aurea is toxic to both people and animals when ingested. Despite being considered safe for humans, Monsteras have toxic properties that can pose a risk to the well-being of dogs and cats. If pets come into contact with these plants, they may exhibit an array of symptoms, such as mouth irritation, swelling, and discomfort in the lips, tongue, and mouth. Additionally, affected animals may suffer from excessive drooling, vomiting, and problems with swallowing.
Although it does not affect most people, it’s safer to use gloves when working on your Monstera aurea.
Similar Plants
The Monstera aurea is similar to the true Monstera deliciosa, especially in size and shape.
In addition to having almost the same leaf shape, both plants have fenestrations and aerial roots.
However, the Monstera deliciosa has solid green foliage, while the Monstera aurea has distinctive yellow variegation.
The albo variegata is another similar plant. While it has white variegation and light green leaves, both the aurea and albo variegata have compact leaves and are rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will my Monstera aurea revert?
The Monstera aurea has stable variegation and will not revert, meaning its yellow variegation will not turn back into solid green leaves.
Q. Why does my Monstera aurea not have holes?
Holes or fenestrations develop as the plant matures. Your plant might be too young to develop fenestrations right now. Verify with your seller whether you’ve purchased an authentic plant.
Rest assured, your Monstera aurea will develop fenestrations as the leaves reach full maturity.
Adequate light is also important for the plant to develop holes, so ensure it receives a healthy dose of indirect sunlight.
Q. Is the Thai constellation the same as Monstera borsigiana aurea?
The Thai constellation and borsigiana aurea are variegated varieties of the Monstera deliciosa.
However, they’re markedly different from each other. While the Thai constellation has light green leaves with white variegation, the Monstera aurea variegata has unique yellow variegation.
The Monster aurea’s variegations are also less frequent than those in the Thai constellation.
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.
