Variegated monstera

Monstera deliciosa

Also known as: Thai Constellation, Albo Variegata, Monstera deliciosa 'Variegata', variegated Swiss cheese plant

Variegated monstera
Photo: cultivar413, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

How do you care for a variegated monstera?

Light: Bright, indirect light with no strong direct sun. Variegated cultivars need more light than dark green plants. Water: Water thoroughly, then let the top quarter to one-third of the soil dry. Water less from fall to late winter. It is toxic to cats and dogs, so keep it out of their reach.

About Variegated monstera

Variegated monsteras are cultivars of Monstera deliciosa whose leaves are marbled, streaked or splashed with creamy white, such as 'Variegata', 'Albo Variegata' and 'Thai Constellation'. They grow more slowly than the green species: Missouri Botanical Garden gives about 3 m (10 ft) tall for 'Variegata', and the RHS describes 'Thai Constellation' as slower growing with more closely spaced leaves. NC State Extension notes that variegated cultivars need more light than dark green plants, while the RHS and Missouri Botanical Garden advise bright, indirect light without strong direct sun. Like the green species, they are toxic to cats and dogs.

Variegated monstera quick facts

Botanical name
Monstera deliciosa
Family
Araceae (arum family)
Native to
Garden cultivars; the species is native from Mexico to Panama
Light
Bright, indirect light with no strong direct sun. Variegated cultivars need more light than dark green plants.
Water
Water thoroughly, then let the top quarter to one-third of the soil dry. Water less from fall to late winter.
Temperature and humidity
16–29 °C (60–85 °F) with moderate to high humidity.
Support
Grow on a pole or trellis; without support the stems tend to grow horizontally.
Size
'Variegata' typically reaches about 3 m (10 ft) tall and 1.8 m (6 ft) wide. The RHS gives 2.5–4 m (8–13 ft) for 'Thai Constellation'.
Propagation
Stem cuttings.
Cats and dogs
Toxic. Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists insoluble calcium oxalates for Monstera deliciosa, causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Variegated cultivars are not listed separately. Source: ASPCA

Sources: NC State Extension: Monstera deliciosa; Missouri Botanical Garden: Monstera deliciosa 'Variegata'; RHS: Monstera deliciosa 'Thai Constellation'; ASPCA: Swiss Cheese Plant

Variegated monstera guides

Variegated Monstera care at a glance

Light
Medium to bright indirect. Tolerates lower light but grows best in medium to bright indirect light. Can get leggy without enough light. Grow lights: Thrives under artificial grow lights (LED or fluorescent, 10-12 hours/day). A great option if your space lacks natural light.
Watering
Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Adjust with the seasons — less in winter, more in summer.
Humidity
Loves higher humidity (60%+). If your air is dry, group it with other plants, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier nearby.
Temperature
Standard room temperature (60-80°F / 15-27°C) is perfect. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature swings.
Soil
Standard well-draining potting mix works well. Add perlite for extra drainage if you tend to overwater.
Pets
Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists insoluble calcium oxalates for Monstera deliciosa, causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Variegated cultivars are not listed separately.
Difficulty
Beginner friendly

Common variegated monstera problems, answered

Questions about Variegated monstera

Is variegated monstera toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists insoluble calcium oxalates for Monstera deliciosa, causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Variegated cultivars are not listed separately.

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