Thai Constellation Vs. Albo Borsigiana Monstera

Monstera Albo Borsigiana Vs. Thai Constellation - Quick Look

More Information About These Two Plants

Plant Type

Monstera Albo Borsigiana and Thai Constellation are hemiepiphytes, meaning they are also partly epiphytes. Aroid is the common name used for plants that belong to the family Araceae.

A hemiepiphyte is a plant that begins its life as an epiphyte, growing on another plant without deriving nutrients from it. However, at some point, the hemiepiphyte sends its roots to the ground to establish itself as a self-supporting plant. Hemiepiphytes have a unique two-stage life cycle and often exhibit adaptations to facilitate their transition from an epiphytic to a terrestrial plant.

Origin

The exact origin of Monstera Albo Borsigiana is unclear. Still, it is believed to be a naturally occurring genetic mutation of Monstera deliciosa, a species native to Central and South America. It is thought to have been first discovered in a nursery in Germany, specifically in the Borsigiana area of Berlin, where it gets its name.

The plant's popularity as a houseplant has recently increased and it is now extensively cultivated and propagated for commercial use. The caveat is that of 100 seeds, only about one will produce a variegated plant, which is why this plant is so hard to find.

Thai Constellation is a type of Monstera that was developed in a lab in Thailand from a single tissue culture.

Thai Constellation has become increasingly popular as a houseplant in recent years, particularly for its unique variegation patterns, and it is now sold commercially. However, it is also considered a rare plant and is expensive to buy. An immature plant measuring around 12 inches is more than $100 from online retailers.

Appearance

Monstera Albo Borsigiana is characterized by its large, glossy, and fenestrated leaves with variegated white coloring. The variegation pattern is typically irregular, with large white patches or streaks scattered throughout the leaf surface.

The white coloration is due to a genetic mutation affecting the plant's ability to produce chlorophyll in certain areas of the leaves. Houseplant enthusiasts are drawn to this plant because of its unique and remarkable appearance.

Thai Constellation is also a striking tropical vine plant with smaller leaves that are glossy, fenestrated, and variegated with patterns of creamy white or light yellow coloration. The white patterns tend to be more consistent and interspersed with tiny specks that resemble stars in the night sky.

Size

Monstera Albo Borsigiana and Thai Constellation have different leaf sizes, depending on various factors such as growing conditions, plant age, and genetics. In general, Monstera Albo Borsigiana tends to have larger leaves than Thai Constellation.

Monstera Albo Borsigiana leaves grow up to 36 inches long, while Thai Constellation leaves typically reach a maximum length of 18-24 inches. Additionally, Monstera Albo Borsigiana leaves can be wider than the Thai Constellation's, although the difference may not be significant.

Water

In general, the watering requirements for Monstera Albo Borsigiana and Thai Constellation are similar, but there are slight differences depending on the growing conditions and individual plant needs.

Both plants prefer consistently moist but well-draining soil, so avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely. Only water your Monstera plant when the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch.

However, some growers have reported that Thai Constellation may be slightly more sensitive to overwatering than Monstera Albo Borsigiana.

Sun

Both Monstera Albo Borsigiana and Thai Constellation prefer bright, indirect light, but some differences exist in their specific sunlight requirements.

Monstera Albo Borsigiana tolerates slightly lower light conditions than Thai Constellation and can do well in medium to bright indirect light, but it will not thrive in extremely low light conditions. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight as it scorches the leaves.

On the other hand, Thai Constellation requires bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant variegation. It does not tolerate low light conditions as well as Monstera Albo Borsigiana, and too much direct sunlight also damages its leaves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Is More Expensive Albo Or Thai Constellation?

The cost of Albo vs. Thai Constellation depends on availability and demand. Both types of variegated Monstera plants are considered rare and highly sought after, so they are quite expensive. In general, Thai Constellation plants tend to be slightly more costly than Albo due to their more predictable white and green variegation, which is more stable and uniform than that of Albo.

Which Is Better Albo Or Thai Constellation?

Albo and Thai Constellation are beautiful and unique Monstera varieties with their own characteristics and features. Choosing one or the other ultimately depends on personal preference and individual plant care requirements. Some people prefer the half-moon speckles and cream-colored variegation of Albo, while others prefer the marbled white and green variety of Thai Constellation. Both plants require similar care, including a well-draining potting mix, a moss pole for support, and protection from direct sunlight.

One thing to consider is that the Albo plant does not have a stable variegation is due to a virus, so the plant’s immune system may fight—or embrace—the virus differently over the years. Meaning, the plant may produce all green leaves, or all white leaves, and there’s no way to predict what the new leaves will look like.

White leaves, while uniquely beautiful, should be removed as they contain no chlorophyll and can’t produce nutrients through photosynthesis. There’s nothing wrong with all green leaves, except that they are aesthetically unremarkable.

How Do I Know If I Have A Monstera Albo Borsigiana Or Monstera Thai Constellation?

If you purchase your plant from a reputable seller, they should label it correctly. However, many different types of variegated Monstera plants exist, and some sellers may mislabel or misidentify them.

Tissue culture and propagation techniques produce variations in variegation and leaf shape, so it is sometimes difficult to determine the exact type of plant you have.

How Does A Lack Of Chlorophyll Affect The Thai Constellation?

The lack of chlorophyll in variegated plants like the Thai Constellation Monstera affects their growth and care requirements compared to green-leaved plants like the Philodendron. Variegated plants require more light, fertilizer, and frequent watering since they cannot produce as much energy through photosynthesis.

How Are Variegated Monstera Plants Like The Variegata Or Thai Constellation Created?

‌Variegated Monstera Deliciosa plants like the Variegata or Thai Constellation are created through mutated cells resulting in their leaves' white color. Tissue culture is often used to propagate these rare plants since the mutation is unstable, resulting in a mix of variegated and green offspring.