Two of the most iconic variegated plants in the houseplant world: Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo variegata’ and Monstera Thai Constellation. Both are stunning. Both are statement pieces. And yet… they’re very different.

In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between the two, from appearance and growth rate to propagation and availability — so you can decide which one suits you best.

1. Appearance: bold vs balanced

• Albo variegata
  Each leaf is a surprise — dramatic contrast between green and white, with no two leaves alike. Some plants develop stable marbling, others unpredictable splashes or half-moon patterns. But that wild streak is exactly what makes them so coveted.

• Thai constellation
  With its creamy-white speckles and milky marbling, the Thai constellation tends to look more balanced and consistent. The variegation is distributed more evenly, often with soft starry patterns — hence the name.
  But don’t be fooled: some Thais can produce bold segmented leaves or even half-moon patterns, though it’s less common than with the albo.

   

   

2. Growth & sensitivity

• Albo variegata
  Once rooted, the albo grows fairly fast — but the white parts contain no chlorophyll and are more prone to damage. It’s a climber, with longer internodal spacing, so you’ll see fast vertical growth but sometimes slower leaf production. Sensitive to direct sun and overwatering, especially the high-variegation types.

• Thai constellation
  Thai plants start off very slow — especially the tissue-cultured ones. They often stay small and compact for months, but once they reach 40–50 cm in height, they shift into a faster growth phase with larger leaves.
  Despite their thicker leaves, Thais are surprisingly sensitive. They’re more prone to root rot, and they don’t tolerate cold drafts or sudden temperature changes well. Stable, warm conditions are key to success.
  

3. Propagation: the reason behind the price

• Albo variegata
  Albo plants can’t be produced via tissue culture — they’re propagated from mature mother plants only. Every plant is a cutting, and each moss pole version requires up to 4 donor plants. That makes the process slow, manual, and labour-intensive. Mother plants also need regular replacement, as they age or revert.
  → It’s a craft, not a mass product.

• Thai constellation
  Propagated in high-tech tissue culture labs, mostly in Asia. This makes them easier to scale and explains why prices have dropped in recent years. But tissue culture baby plants are tiny and very slow to take off. That’s why we only sell them once they’re tall and strong enough to thrive in your home.

4. Which one is right for you?

Both plants are beautiful — and neither is particularly “easy.” But they are different.

• The albo is for those who love contrast, character, and a bit of unpredictability. You need to accept occasional damage and slower leaf production, but the payoff is a true statement plant.
  (Psst… we can usually predict the next leaf quite accurately — we just can’t promise it 😉)

• The Thai is perfect for collectors who prefer consistency and a fuller look. It asks for patience at first, but once established, its growth can be surprisingly rewarding. And don’t be fooled — even Thai plants can throw the occasional wild leaf.