Many people are drawn to Monstera plants for their unique coloration and leaf patterns. The Monstera White Tiger (Half Moon) and Monstera Albo are both popular varieties of variegated Monstera deliciosa plants, but each has distinctive characteristics.
Let’s explore the similarities and differences between these two beautiful plants.
Why Is It Called Monstera White Tiger?
Monstera White Tiger, also known as Monstera Half Moon, is a rare and beautiful plant known for its unique white spots on green leaves. The origin of its mother plant dates back hundreds of years to ancient Chinese texts, where it was called “Wu Ling San.”
This translates to “three-petaled mythical beast,” an apt description of this remarkable monstera deliciosa variegata!
What Is A Monstera Albo?
Monstera Albo is a tropical climbing evergreen whose mother plant is native to Central and South America.
It is characterized by its large, glossy dark green leaves with white spots or patches. These white markings on monstera deliciosa are why it is often referred to as the “White Tiger.”
Main Similarities
Monstera white tiger and albo borsigiana white tiger are a sort of monstera deliciosa, and as a tissue-cultured deliciosa, they have a few similarities. Keep reading to find out:
Leaf Appearance
As both these plants are true monstera deliciosa variegata, they have large, glossy new leaves with prominent veins. They both have bright yellow-green coloring and are easily recognizable.
Fenestration
Monstera White Tiger and Albo share the same fenestration characteristic. Fenestration is when the plants enter a period of intense growth in which small holes, or ‘fenestrations,’ are formed on the surface of their big, glossy mature leaves.
The white spots covering their large green seed become more highlighted during this process, giving each a unique look that makes them stand out from other plants.
Soil
Both variegated monstera varieties prefer well-draining soil, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite.
A pot with drainage holes is also essential to help promote healthy root growth and allow excess water to flow away.
Fertilizer
Monstera deliciosa also benefit from regular fertilizing, using a balanced fertilizer diluted at half strength every two weeks during their active growing season.
Humidity
Monstera White Tiger and Monstera Albo benefit from higher humidity levels for optimal growth. Humidity can be increased by misting the plant with a spray bottle, adding a humidifier, or setting the pot on a tray of wet pebbles.
If kept in lower humidity, these plants may develop brown tips on their leaves as a sign of dehydration. Misting is also beneficial for helping to promote healthy new leaf growth while combating pests like mealybugs or spider mites.
Sunlight
Both varieties of variegated monstera prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is essential to find a spot with bright, diffused light. They will tolerate some shade, but this may lead to slower growth.
If grown indoors, be sure to rotate monstera deliciosa regularly. This ensures even growth and helps keep the plant from leaning toward a particular light source.
Temperature
Monstera White Tiger and Monstera Albo prefer temperatures between 63-77°F (17-25°C). They can handle some temperature swings during the day but do not like to stay cold for extended periods.
It is important to pick a spot that stays away from any air vents or drafty windows, as these can cause fluctuations in temperature which may be detrimental to their health.
Toxicity
Monstera White Tiger and Albo are non-toxic to both humans and pets.
Common Pests
Monstera White Tiger and Albo Borsigiana White Tiger are prone to pest infestation, but it is primarily controllable. Spider mites and mealybugs can be a nuisance, so checking monstera deliciosa regularly for signs of an infestation is essential.
If any pests are found, use an insecticide or pesticide spray to rid the plant of its infestation.
Pruning
Both monsteras require pruning and repotting regularly to stay healthy. Prune off dead or damaged leaves, as well as any stems or branches that are overgrown.
Repot the plants when they become rootbound, or the pot is too small. This will help the plant to thrive and look its best.
Propagation
Monstera White Tiger and Monstera Albo can propagate quickly through stem cuttings. Ensure the cutting has two to three nodes and at least one leaf.
Place the cutting in water or potting soil and keep it moist until new roots have developed before transferring it to its pot.
Main Differences in Albo Borsigiana White Tiger and Monstera Deliciosa
Here are a few basic differences between these variegated monsteras growing conditions:
Speckled Variegation
The Monstera Half Moon is known for its unique variegated monstera leaves, which have a creamy white color with randomly distributed light green patches.
The Albo has a single solid green color and will not develop stable variegation.
Leaf Appearance
The Monstera White Tiger has distinctive leaves; they are longer and wider than the Albo, and have a deeply sculptured leaf pattern. The Monstera Albo Borsigiana White has narrower and smaller leaves that are smoother and less textured.
Stems
The Monstera Half Moon has thick, strong stems that are often described as succulent. The stems of the monstera albo borsigiana are thin and delicate and can break easily.
Price
The Monstera White Tiger is generally more expensive than the Monstera Albo, but commercial growers of the plant purchase large amounts of these plants to benefit them in the long run.
The Monstera Albo Borsigiana White is usually a cheaper plant worldwide but can cost more in the long run due to its more fragile nature and shorter lifespan.
Petiole
The petiole of the Monstera White Tiger is thick and robust, whereas the monstera albo borsigiana is thin and delicate. The petioles of the monstera deliciosa variegata are slightly shorter than those of the Monstera Albo Borsigiana White, which contributes to its larger overall size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a section on FAQs that might further answer any queries left about these variegated monstera plants:
Which Variegated Monstera Deliciosa Plant Is The Best?
While there is no single best variegated Monstera, some of the most sought-after varieties of variegated plants include Albo, Persephone, Daisy Mae, and Monstera Thai Constellation (Half Moon). These variegated plants are prized for their unique coloration and striking leaf patterns.
Is Monstera Thai Constellation Similar To Monstera Albo?
Yes, Monstera Thai Constellations (Half Moon) and Monstera albo borsigiana have similar care requirements, including bright indirect light and high humidity levels between 70% and 80%.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, both Monstera White Tiger and Monstera Albo are beautiful, unique variegated plants that have similar care requirements but different characteristics.
These variegated monstera plants can make a great addition to any house or garden, but choosing between the two may come down to individual preferences in color and leaf patterns.
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.
