The Variegated Monstera Deliciosa has hit the houseplant market by storm. This beautiful plant has become extremely trendy due to its aesthetically appealing nature.
In this article, we are going to explore the reasons that make this plant so sought-after.
Appearance
The appearance of this plant is extremely unique. This caused a lot of initial excitement on social media. People were interested to see what this plant was and where it came from.
The most defining feature is the variegation of the plant. This is what causes the differing shades of color in the leaves. Genetics can explain this.
DNA makes up all living things. Chromosomes carry DNA within them. Different chromosomes contain different genes. Interestingly, sometimes the chromosomes get mixed up.
Chlorophyll is the green pigmentation in plants. If these specific chromosomes get mixed up it causes a mutation.
The connotation behind “mutation” is usually negative. However, it works out beautifully in this instance. The end result is shades of yellow and silver integrated into the green.
‘Chimera’ is the name for this. Sometimes chimeral variegation is spread out all over the plant. This is true in the case of the Variegated Monstera Deliciosa.
This mutation ensures that none of the colors in the two plants are exactly the same. Variegation actually happens in many different types of plants. However, it is extremely beautiful in the Variegated Monstera Deliciosa.
Some of the leaves appear to be entirely green. Some look like they have been splattered with white paint. Alternatively, some are entirely white.
However, there is no science to what the appearance will be. There are symmetrical leaf patterns in rare instances.
Rarity
Plant-lovers are fixated on how rare the Variegated Monstera is. Needless to say, this is a plant that is difficult to find. This is because it was genuinely created as a result of an accident.
There is a lack of chlorophyll. Due to this, the photosynthesis process is incredibly slow. This means that the plant has to work harder to make food.
These characteristics are harmful to the plant. Accordingly, botanists have been working towards finding an actual use for the Variegated Monstera Deliciosa. Scientists have not been able to identify a single-use.
There is no doubt that the Variegated Monstera Deliciosa is aesthetically pleasing. However, there needs to be a higher motivation to cultivate these plants.
Furthermore, this plant is very difficult to breed due to its difficult nature. The growth process is slow and strenuous.
Ultimately, all of these factors make the plant difficult to find. This plant has amassed a cult-like following in recent years. Accordingly, this makes the Variegated Monstera Deliciosa really expensive.
Types of Variegation
There are two major types of variegation. Marble variegation is the most popular. The name is quite self-explanatory.
Plants with this type of variegation have a marble-like appearance. There is an even distribution between green and white all over the plant.
Many of these plants look like they have been painted. Accordingly, they have an extremely modern-artistic appearance.
“Half-moon” is the second type of variegation. This is where one half of a leaf is completely white. The other half is completely green.
The split between the two colors seems miraculous. It’s a perfect half-and-half split. This type of Monstera seems to be the most expensive. One website sells them for $150.
Keep in mind that most people won’t be able to purchase one locally. This means that shipping will add to the overall cost.
Caring for the Variegated Monstera Deliciosa
Taking care of plants takes a lot of practice. Fortunately, taking care of the Variegated Monstera doesn’t differ too much from others of this type.
Durability is a key quality in this plant. Bright light allows them to grow quickly. Furthermore, they don’t need to be watered very often.
However, the white parts of the plant don’t absorb any light. Therefore, the green parts need to compensate for this. The owner should be well versed in how to best aid the plant in absorbing the most amount of light.
This makes the “half-moon” variety more difficult to care for. This is because an entire half portion isn’t able to take part in photosynthesis.
Alternatively, caring for the marble variety is a lot easier. They are known as the stronger of the two varieties. Consequently, there has been a rapid decline in the half-moon plants that are available.
Where To Buy a Variegated Monstera Deliciosa
Finding this plant proves to be a difficult feat. This plant is sought-after for this reason. Everyone is eager to purchase something that is uncommon.
It is highly unlikely that you will be able to find this plant in a local store. However, there are some local stores that specialize in rare plants. This is generally in big cities.
There have been many online plant stores that have sprouted up over the past few years. However, this plant is so rare that it probably won’t be on there either.
Many people are struggling to find this plant due to these reasons. The easiest way to get this plant seems to be through Etsy.
On Etsy, individuals are able to sell these plants to independent buyers. In this instance, the seller will most likely give you a cutting of their plant. This means that you will have to nurture it carefully.
Conclusion
The Variegated Monstera Deliciosa proves to be a rare breed. However, the aesthetically appealing nature makes it a novelty.
This plant quickly became recognized as the “Instagram plant.” This made it desirable – especially for plant lovers. It’s already considered one of the most desirable rare houseplants on the market.
Nonetheless, finding this plant can be quite difficult. Furthermore, buyers should be ready to dish out some cash for this plant. Accordingly, it will make your home look beautiful and artistic.
