Monsteras make excellent housemates because they don’t need a lot of upkeep and care. They require little water, are pretty simple to grow, and may even assist in filtering the air in your living room! The Monstera Albo Borsigiana (sometimes referred to simply as “Arbo”) and the Monstera Thai Constellation are arguably the two most well-known monstera types out there.
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These plants are so popular because their remarkable leaf variation ranges from creamy to yellowish or even white dots and speckles on the luscious green foliage. This variation results from a mutation that cannot be simply reproduced from seeds but requires propagation. This makes locating the Albo and the Thai Constellation far more challenging than the typical non-variegated Monstera.
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The foliage is the primary distinction between Monstera Albo and Monstera Thai Constellation. Compared to Monstera Albo, Monstera Thai Constellation has more consistent variegation. In contrast to Monstera Albo, which is nearly invariably white-green, Monstera Thai Constellation can be either yellow-green or white-green.
If you are still having a hard time distinguishing between the two, then you are in the right place at the right time! You should be able to distinguish the variations among variegated Monsteras using the information in this article.
Monstera Thai Constellation Vs Albo Differences
The foliage is the primary distinction between Monstera Albo and Monstera Thai Constellation. Compared to Monstera Albo, Monstera Thai Constellation has more stable and consistent variegation. In contrast to Monstera Albo, which is nearly invariably white-green, Monstera Thai Constellation can be either white-green or yellow-green.
Here are the key differences between the two variegated Monsteras:
Variegation of the Leaves (Monstera Differences)
Variegation is the primary distinction between these two plants’ leaves. The yellow color is equally dispersed on the green in the shape of dots or stripes on the Monstera Thai Constellation. Additionally, because the variegation is more even, it does not totally turn green or yellow.
On the leaves of Monstera Albo, on the other hand, are sizable white dots. Sometimes a leaf’s upper half may be white, while some of its neighbors may be entirely green. This indicates that this variety possesses floating variegation, which causes some leaves to be completely green or white.
Being forced to remove the green leaves is undoubtedly a drawback. If not, they will take control, and the entire plant will turn green. However, if the plant is left with nothing but white leaves, it can perish due to a lack of chlorophyll.
Origin
Although both varieties of Monstera initially have a similar appearance, they are unquestionably different plants. There are significant variances in the origin of the variegation and its stability. The Thai Constellation Monstera is more straightforward because the variation is created inside a lab using tissue culture—originally in the country of Thailand, which inspires the name.
The variation, in this instance, is not caused by a genetic mutation. The variation becomes stable as a consequence. Its name is derived from the leaf arrangement, which resembles a starry night sky.
The Monstera deliciosa variegata Albo’s variegation results from an unstable genetic mutation. However, the mutated cells do not always manifest in new stems or leaves. Hence, the variegation is unstable.
Leaf Size
The size of the leaves is the second difference. The leaves on Monstera Thai Constellation are more giant. They can readily grow up to two feet long. Likewise, the length of Monstera Albo leaves is often scarcely more than 12 inches.
Leaf Color
The Monstera Thai Constellation has foliage that is white and green in hue. Yellow or cream can be used in place of white.
The leaves of Monstera Albo are constantly green and white. Its pure or snowy, completely white variegation tint rarely changes and stays that way.
Shape And Size
Both plants have slightly different sizes and forms. The Thai constellation looks bushier because of its shorter internodes, yet the huge leaves give the impression that the shrub is spreading out.
The nodes on the borsigiana albo plant are spaced 6 inches apart, which is a considerable distance. Thereby, the albo’s form is longer. You’ll need to urge your Monstera to ascend since Albo is thought of as a climber.
If you like big, sprawling plants, you must grow a Monstera Deliciosa Thai Constellation. It will, however, need a little more space. The easiest technique to control its size is to prune; the trick is to always use clean, sharp equipment.
If you like vining plants, Monstera albo borsigiana is a superior option. Despite being less wide, it extends upward more quickly. You’ll need a moss pole or an alternative to grow it successfully indoors.
Price And availability
Currently, there are some disparities in both the cost and the availability of the two plants. Perhaps things will change in the future, but for the time being, nothing has changed. It is significantly simpler to propagate and has more stable variegation than Monstera Thai Constellation. The ability to root almost any cutting and grow a new plant is common.
Additionally, tissue culture is a standard method used to increase this type. Due to this, many more plants are available for purchase, which lowers the cost.
However, it is much more challenging to spread Monstera Albo. Both white and green cuttings are inedible and will not result in a variegated plant. Additionally, tissue culture is rarely used to generate this type.
All of this has contributed to the plant’s scarcity and relative priciness. But you might also benefit from it. You can obtain expensive and uncommon specimens of Monstera Albo to sell for a profit by cultivating and multiplying them.
Taking Care Of Your Variegated Monstera (Monstera Differences)
You must first locate the ideal location in your home. Since both monsteras are tropical plants, you should approximate their natural environment as closely as possible. A modest amount of water is necessary for the Monstera Albo and the Thai Constellation. Be careful not to overwater them, as this could lead to the decay of the roots.
Make sure the soil is healthy before you water your Monstera. To determine how dry the earth is, simply stick your finger on it. It should never be fully dry; summer is a crucial time to remember. Make careful to water your Monstera gently if it feels too dry. The soil should be a little drier in the winter than in the summer. During this time, your Monstera will enter a state of hibernation and use less water. Typically, watering it once a week should be adequate.
Avoid placing either variegated Monstera in direct sunlight. The delicate white leaves can easily catch fire and produce dark burn imprints. They do, however, require a plenty of indirect sunlight, as they are accustomed to in the tropics, which are their natural environment.
Watering Requirements
The two plants have relatively similar watering requirements. Monsteras receive a plenty of water in their natural environment. Yet, their roots are seldom submerged in damp soil for extended periods. This is because the majority of the root system is above ground.
Water your Monstera when the potting soil is about halfway dry to ensure its success. Allow the soil to almost totally dry out over the winter. Make sure the soil is entirely submerged by using a lot of water. There should be holes in the bottom of the pot. To test whether the potting soil is moist, use your fingertips. Alternatively, you could put a moisture meter inside the monstera pot.
The Monstera’s roots can rot if you water it frequently and risk losing the plant. Cleaning the roots of debris and removing any dead tissue is necessary to treat root rot. It can take months for the wound to heal. Monsteras, on the other hand, cannot stand drought. The leaves may eventually split or get crispy around the edges of the dirt in the pot fully dries up. Therefore, avoid forcing the plant to dehydrate; this is crucial in the summer heat.
Fertilization
When it comes to feeding, Monstera Thai Constellation and Monstera Albo are very similar. They multiply and are pretty robust plants. However, they might not receive enough nutrients in the container, so they require regular fertilization.
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Every 1.5 to 2 months, fertilize the Monstera with a liquid fertilizer that contains the exact proportions of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Iron, zinc, and magnesium deficiencies in the soil can occasionally occur. The effect is that although the leaves may become yellow, the veins will still be green. Apply these components in addition if this happens to your plant.
A monstera should only receive fertilizer once a month to prevent root burn. To correct this, you will need to repot the plant. Additionally, avoid fertilizing any of these plants throughout the fall and winter when they are either hibernating or getting ready. When fertilized during this time, the Monstera may thrive and become severely impoverished.
Light Requirements
Both Monstera Albo and Monstera Thai Constellation need the same amount of lighting. They require at least six hours of day, indirect yet bright sunshine. These circumstances exist in their natural habitat. A room facing east or west might be a good choice. But a bit in the back of the room, not close to a window. These plants will burn if exposed to direct sunlight. Large brown spots or a brown border on the leaves are symptoms.
You might also put them in a room that faces the south or the north. You should either put the Monstera in the room’s back or install window shades in the south room. Because there might not be enough light, even next to a window, the plant will swell and become weak. Such a monstera is particularly susceptible to illness and death.
Soil
The natural soil must be recreated by both monsteras. In other words, the potting mix should be airy and loose. Additionally, it must drain quickly because the roots of these plants cannot tolerate standing water in any way.
Purchasing aroids growing media is the most direct route to obtaining the ideal substrate. There are many excellent goods available. Additionally, you can create your own substrate by combining pure compost and regular potting soil in equal amounts.
Monstera will not thrive in alkaline soil, so make sure the substrate is at least somewhat acidic. Additionally, keep in mind transplanting the Monstera every one to two years to provide the roots time to expand. Finally, use a pot that is only 1 to 2 inches larger than the one you are transplanting into, and make sure it has drainage holes.
The plant may go through transplant shock after being moved. The leaves could sag a little. Simply give the plant more water and give it a little more shade; nothing more has to be done. Return it to its original spot once you are sure it is okay.
Humidity And Temperature
To survive, both plants require a temperature range of 65 to 85 °F. Low temperatures can cause plants to sluggishly grow or even suffer. Because of this, avoid taking Monstera outside in the summertime if the nights are chilly. Additionally, keep it away from appliances that produce cold air, such as refrigerators, and seal off any drafts in the house. The same is valid with heating equipment.
For Monstera to develop, humidity is also crucial. Ideally, you’ll be able to get a humidity of 60–70%. The leaves may develop dry patches or crack if the air is dehydrated. Install a humidifier or pebble tray close to the Monstera to achieve the ideal humidity. Moreover, the air around plants is typically more humid if they are positioned close together.
Common Problems In Growing Monsteras (Monstera Differences)
Pests are the first issue you’ll face when cultivating Monstera. Aphids and spider mites are the most prevalent. As a consequence of these insects feeding on the plant’s sap, the plant progressively starts to wilt. Spray an aqueous solution of neem oil on the Monstera to get rid of them.
The disease represents a second difficulty. The Monstera typically has a leaf spot or root rot. Avoid overwatering and ensure the substrate and pot are well-drained to treat the decay.
A fungal illness called leaf spot may be brought on by different pathogens. Ensure the plant has adequate ventilation and a humidity level of no more than 90% to prevent this. Spray the plants with a copper fungicide if there are leaf spots.
Final Thoughts: What Should I Pick? (Monstera Differences)
Both monsteras are beautiful flowers with distinctive variegation. The Albo and the Thai Constellation differ in several ways. Differences include the color and pattern of the variegation, the size and shape of the plant, the amount of upkeep needed, and the cost.
Compared to the creamier foliage of the Thai Constellation, the Albo delivers even more striking white leaves. The Albo has the drawback of requiring a little more attention. You must clip new leaves when you see they are not variegated to keep the plant’s variegation.
The safer option for novice plant growers is the Thai Constellation. It is simpler to spread the variegation since it is more stable. The variegation will also be evident in every new leaf because the mutation occurs in every new stem. You won’t need to stress about meticulously inspecting and trimming fresh stems and leaves to preserve the variegation.
To learn more about identifying between a Monstera albo and Thai Constellation, you can watch the video below:
All in all, one of these stunning variegated plants is always a good choice!
We hope you learned something from this article, here are other articles that you can learn from:
Peperomia Hope: A Complete and Concise Care, Propagation, and Watering Guide
Pothos Leaves Curling, its Causes and Easy Ways to Fix Leaf Curl
Philodendron Rojo Congo: The Best Care, Propagation, and Watering Guide You Need
The majority of people who have no interest in the subject, and aren’t green fingered assume that all plants and vegetables require the same growing conditions. This is not the case at all. Each plant has its own unique and interesting history and growing process.
I hope you will find The Natural List useful, and that it will help educate you on the wide variety of different flower and plant species there are across the globe.
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