Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Borsigiana’ (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Borsigiana’, often simply referred to as ‘Albo’, captures the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide with its stunning variegated foliage. This variant of the Monstera deliciosa, distinguished by its unique white and green marbled leaves, is not just a decorative plant but a spectacle of nature’s artistry.

Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Borsigiana’ – Variegated Swiss Cheese Plant: An In-depth Look

The ‘Albo Borsigiana’ is a highly sought-after cultivar due to its striking variegation. Unlike the common Monstera, the ‘Albo’ variety features patches of pure white or light cream on its leaves alongside the traditional deep green. This variegation occurs randomly, giving each leaf a unique pattern ranging from a few splashes of white to almost entirely pale leaves. The contrast is not just visually striking; it also adds a dramatic flair to any space it adorns.

Native: Monstera deliciosa is native to the tropical forests of southern Mexico, south to Panama. It thrives in the understory with dappled sunlight, which has adapted it well to indoor conditions. It belongs to the arum family (Araceae), along with Zantedeschia (Calla Lily), Caladium (Angel Wing), or Colocasia (Elephant Ear).

Plant Type and Habit: This cultivar is a tropical, evergreen shrub with a climbing habit, similar to its parent species. It grows by producing long aerial roots that seek support, allowing it to climb trees and other structures in its natural habitat or trellises and poles when cultivated indoors.

Size: The ‘Albo Borsigiana’ can reach impressive sizes, both in height and spread, especially when given the right conditions to thrive. Indoors, with adequate support, it can grow up to 8-10 feet tall (2.4 to 3 meters) and 3 feet wide (90 cm). Outdoors, it can reach 30 feet (9 meters) in height and 5 feet (1.5 meters) in spread.

Flowers: Like its parent species, Monstera deliciosa, the ‘Albo’ variety can produce flowers, although it’s a rare sight in indoor conditions. The flowers resemble those of the arum family, with a spadix wrapped by a spathe, but they are not the primary attraction of this plant. Flowering is more common in mature plants grown in optimal conditions, typically requiring high humidity and bright, indirect light.

Fruit: On the rare occasion that the ‘Albo Borsigiana’ flowers and is subsequently pollinated, it can produce fruit. The fruit of the Monstera deliciosa resembles a green corn cob and is known for its sweet flavor, reminiscent of pineapple and banana. However, fruiting is an uncommon occurrence in indoor environments.

Foliage: The foliage of the ‘Albo Borsigiana’ is where this plant truly shines. The leaves are large, heart-shaped, and can grow up to 3 feet (90 cm) in length in ideal conditions. The variegation presents in a stunning array of patterns, with no two leaves alike. This unpredictable variegation makes each plant uniquely beautiful, a living piece of art. The leaves also feature the characteristic splits and holes of the Monstera genus, which are said to help the plant withstand strong winds in its native habitat.

Hardiness: Monstera deliciosa is hardy in USDA zones 10-12, thriving in warm, humid conditions.

Uses: Primarily used for ornamental purposes, it’s a popular indoor plant due to its air-purifying qualities and visual appeal. Outdoors, it can be used in landscaping in tropical or subtropical climates.

Toxicity: All parts of the plant are toxic except the ripe fruits. They are toxic to humans, cats, and dogs if ingested. They contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause mouth and stomach irritation. Contact with the sap may cause skin irritation.

Deer and Rabbits: Its toxicity generally deters deer and rabbits.

Invasiveness: In suitable climates, Monstera deliciosa can become invasive if not managed, spreading through its aerial roots and overtaking spaces. It has become a mildly invasive species in Hawaii, Seychelles, Ascension Island, and the Society Islands.

Benefits: Besides its decorative use, it’s known for purifying the air by removing pollutants, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

Monstera Plant Care

Growing and caring for Monstera deliciosa, a striking tropical plant, is relatively straightforward, making it a popular choice for indoor gardeners.

Light: As a houseplant, Monstera thrives in bright summer light and winter direct sun. While it can grow under fluorescent lighting, insufficient light prevents the development of its characteristic leaf perforations.

Soil: Use a peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand to improve drainage. Monsteras prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Monsteras like evenly moist soil but not soggy. Reduce watering in winter.

Temperature and Humidity: Ideal temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). Avoid exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as cold can damage the plant. Thrives in humidity levels of 60% or higher. Use a humidifier or mist the leaves regularly to increase humidity, especially in dry environments.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce to every other month in fall and winter.

Pruning: Prune in spring or early summer to maintain size and shape. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves to encourage new growth.

Cleaning: Dust the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to ensure the plant can photosynthesize efficiently. This also keeps the plant looking its best.

Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes rootbound. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Climbing Support: Provide a moss pole or trellis for support, mimicking its natural climbing habit. Attach stems loosely to the support as they grow.

How to Propagate Monstera – A Step-By-Step Guide

Propagating Monstera is a rewarding and straightforward process that allows you to create new plants from an existing one.

Stem Cuttings in Water

• Select a Cutting: Choose a healthy stem with at least one leaf and one node (the bump on the stem where leaves and roots grow).
• Cut: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut just below a node.
• Root in Water: Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the node is submerged. Leave the leaf out of the water.
• Wait for Roots: Change the water every few days. Roots should begin to form within a few weeks.
• Plant: Once roots are a few inches long, plant the cutting in potting soil.

Stem Cuttings in Soil

• Prepare Cutting: Similar to the water method, select and cut a healthy piece of stem with at least one node.
• Plant Directly: Plant the cutting directly into moist potting soil, making sure the node is buried.
• Maintain Humidity: Cover the pot with a plastic bag or use a propagation box to keep humidity high, which encourages root growth.
• Care: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots should develop within a few weeks.

Air Layering (For Large Plants)

• Identify a Node: Choose a node on a stem that’s still attached to the plant.
• Prepare the Node: Make a small cut or remove a thin strip of bark around the node to encourage rooting.
• Apply Moist Sphagnum Moss: Wrap moist sphagnum moss around the node and cover it with plastic wrap to retain moisture. Secure the plastic with tape or rubber bands.
• Wait for Roots: Check periodically for root growth. This can take several weeks to a few months.
• Cut and Plant: Once roots have formed in the moss, cut the stem below the roots and plant in potting soil.

Monstera: Pests, Diseases, Common Problems

Monstera can encounter pests, diseases, and other common problems, especially when grown indoors.

Pests

Spider Mites: These tiny pests cause yellow stippling on leaves. Increase humidity and wash leaves with water or use insecticidal soap.

Mealybugs: Look for cottony deposits in leaf axils or undersides. Remove with alcohol-dipped cotton swabs or apply neem oil.

Aphids: Small, pear-shaped pests that cluster on new growth and undersides of leaves, sucking plant sap and weakening it. Combat them with a gentle spray of water, neem oil, or insecticidal soap to protect the plant’s health and appearance.

Scale insects: Hard, brown bumps on leaves/stems indicate scale. Scrape off manually and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Diseases

Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, characterized by mushy, brown roots and yellowing leaves. Ensure good drainage and allow soil to dry between waterings.

Leaf spot: Fungal or bacterial leaf spots appear as discolored patches on leaves. Improve air circulation, avoid wetting foliage, and treat with fungicides if severe.

Common Problems

Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies can cause leaves to yellow. Adjust watering habits and consider repotting or fertilizing.

Brown Leaf Tips/Edges: Low humidity or drought stress might cause brown tips. Increase humidity around the plant with a pebble tray or humidifier.

Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can lead to sparse, leggy growth. Move your Monstera to a brighter location with indirect sunlight.

Fenestration Not Developing: Young plants or those not receiving enough light may not develop the characteristic leaf holes or splits. Provide brighter indirect light to encourage fenestration.