In-house hybrids available in the shop
EU: free shipping on orders above 150 euro
Home > Care guide > Monstera deliciosa variegata
Care video

Monstera deliciosa variegata

Watch how to care for your Monstera variegata

Short video explaining the basics: light, watering, and how to keep your variegated Monstera thriving.

Care guide

Monstera deliciosa variegata

Few plants have captured the hearts of collectors and interior stylists quite like the Monstera deliciosa variegata. With its bold contrast between green and white, every leaf is a unique composition. This is not a uniform houseplant — it's a living, evolving piece of art.

The variegated form of Monstera deliciosa is the result of a natural mutation, where some cells lack chlorophyll. This creates anything from subtle marbling to striking half-moon patterns. But these creamy-white areas do more than stand out visually — they also affect how the plant grows. Less chlorophyll means less energy production, which makes variegated Monsteras more light-sensitive and slower-growing than their fully green relatives.

Originally native to the tropical rainforests of Central America, Monstera deliciosa is a climbing aroid that anchors itself to trees using aerial roots. In the wild, it can grow to impressive sizes, with leaves over a metre wide. Indoors, it remains more compact, but still demands space and support.

At Plantlovers, we’ve been working with variegated Monsteras for many years. In fact, the father of our founder Dirk Mermans was among the first to introduce this plant to Europe in the 1970s. The genetics of our current mother plants still carry the legacy of those early specimens — a lineage we continue to select for health, balance and beauty.

Read on
Plant gallery

A glimpse of your plant at different stages

Care tips

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the white parts of the leaves, while too little light will slow down growth and may reduce variegation. A bright spot without prolonged exposure to harsh direct sun will give your Monstera variegata the best conditions to grow.

Water

Allow the soil to dry out well between waterings. Lift the pot to check how much moisture is left in the soil and only water when the pot feels noticeably lighter.

During spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing and receives more light, it will generally use water more quickly and need watering more often. In autumn and winter, growth slows down and the soil stays moist for longer. Water less frequently and allow the soil to dry out well before watering again.

Monstera variegata prefers being slightly too dry rather than staying wet for too long.

Fertiliser

During the growing season in spring and summer, feed every 2–4 weeks with a gentle, balanced fertiliser. In autumn and winter, when growth slows down, reduce feeding significantly or stop fertilising temporarily.

Avoid overfeeding. The white parts of the leaves contain no chlorophyll and therefore do not contribute to photosynthesis. As a result, a variegated Monstera generally grows more slowly than a fully green Monstera and does not require heavy feeding.

Temperature

Monstera variegata thrives at temperatures between 18 and 28°C. Protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. Avoid temperatures below 12°C, as this tropical plant does not tolerate cold well.

Humidity

Monstera variegata prefers a humidity level of 60% or higher. Pay particular attention to humidity during winter, when indoor heating can make the air much drier.

Avoid misting the leaves. Water droplets that remain on the white parts can cause browning. If you use a humidifier, don’t place it directly next to the plant, as prolonged moisture on the leaves can cause damage.

You can also increase humidity by grouping plants together or placing a pebble tray with water near the plant.

Extra tip

Support with a moss pole to encourage upright growth and larger leaves. Prune carefully to manage the balance between green and white areas.

Downloadable care sheet 

Want to keep these handy tips?

The Monstera deliciosa variegata care sheet. Includes a summary, photos, and QR code to this page.

Download care sheet (PDF)
More plant care tips

Want to learn more about caring for your houseplants? Explore our practical guides on light, watering, potting soil, repotting and extending your moss pole.

How to water your houseplants

How to repot your houseplants

How to choose the right potting soil for your houseplants

How to use and extend a moss pole

How to find the right light for your houseplants