White Monstera Deliciosa
Discover watering, soil, fertilizing, pests, styling, and troubleshooting tips for White Monstera Deliciosa
from our experience growing and caring for it in our Brooklyn home!
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which helps sustain our blog!
white monstera deliciosa care guide
lineage and Symbolism
The Monstera White (aka Monstera deliciosa), parent to popular varieties like the ‘Albo’ and ‘White Tiger,’ is a true gem in the plant world known for its striking white variegation — this plant belongs to the Araceae family and flaunts those iconic split leaves we all love! What’s more? it can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors, making it a statement in any room. A fun fact: It sometimes grows aerial roots that seem to reach for the sky!
For the Monstera White, Libras are a great match — their love for balance and harmony aligns well with the plant’s symmetrical variegation and steady growth.
($139)
($115)
“This is a rare expensive plant, but when the leaves fan out with its white and green stripes, everything feels worth it!”
Light and placement
What is the light requirement for White Monstera Deliciosa?
The Monstera White thrives in bright, indirect light, but it can also tolerate medium light. We recommend placing it near an east or north-facing window for about 6-8 hours of indirect sunlight daily. If medium light is your only option, the plant will still grow, though the variegation may fade slightly over time, so a well-lit spot is ideal. Avoid low light entirely as it won’t thrive and growth will slow.
How to know if White Monstera Deliciosa is not getting right amount of light?
Too much direct sunlight can cause yellowing or browning, especially on the white parts of the leaves, and even lead to crispy edges. If it’s getting too little light, leaves become smaller, and their signature variegation might fade to green and dull. In our experience, morning sunlight is gentler, while afternoon rays can be harsh so adjust the plant’s placement depending on the season to maintain that perfect balance: not too much harsh direct light, and not too little light 🙂
Where to place White Monstera Deliciosa and where to avoid?
For your Monstera White, we recommend placing it near an east-facing window where it can enjoy soft morning light but not the stronger afternoon sun. A north-facing window also works well, especially if the room gets a lot of ambient light throughout the day. Avoid south or west-facing windows unless you can filter the light with sheer curtains to protect its delicate leaves from direct, harsh sunlight.
In the summer, we suggest moving the plant slightly further back from the window or increasing the filtering to prevent sunburn. During the winter months, you might want to bring it closer to a light sourcer. Always avoid placing your Monstera in dark corners or areas with little natural light: it just won’t thrive there and could lose its vibrant variegation.
Soil
What soil composition to use for White Monstera Deliciosa?
For your Monstera White, we recommend a well-draining soil mix that holds some moisture but doesn’t get soggy. A blend of 40% potting soil, 30% perlite, and 30% loam works well. The loam helps maintain a neutral to slightly acidic pH, which is ideal. If you tend to overwater, consider adding more perlite (up to 40%) to improve aeration. Avoid using dense topsoil or mixes that don’t allow airflow — this can lead to root rot.
Best soil to use for white monstera deliciosa?
This is a great and most poapular soil mix for your indoor white monstera. If you’re using other potting mixes, just make sure to add more perlite!
Temperature and Humidity
What is the best temperature condition for white monstera deliciosa?
The Monstera White thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). If you’re in a warmer region, be cautious of heat stress: look for signs like wilting or browning edges, especially during summer. In colder areas, keep it away from drafts or cold windows.
Temperatures below 55°F (13°C) can cause leaf damages like dark spots or drooping.
What is the best humidity condition for white monstera deliciosa?
The Monstera White prefers humidity levels between 60-80%. If you’re in a drier region or during winter when indoor air tends to be dry, we recommend using a humidifier or placing a tray of water nearby. Signs of low humidity are: browning leaf tips or curling edges.
In warmer regions or if the humidity is too high – watch for yellowing leaves or signs of mold, which indicate excess moisture in the air. Keep the plant away from radiators or air vents which impact humidity!
Our favorite humidifiers
($34)
($67)
fertilizer
What is the best fertilizer composition to use for ?white monstera deliciosa?
For your Monstera White, we recommend a fertilizer mix that mimics its nutrient-rich tropical habitat. A balanced NPK ratio of 20-20-20 works great! Nitrogen for lush leaves, phosphorus for healthy roots, and potassium for strong growth. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season and cut back in the winter.
For a simple DIY recipe: try blending coffee grounds (nitrogen), 1 tablespoon of banana peel puree, 1 tablespoon of Epsom salts, and 1 gallon of water. The banana adds potassium, while the Epsom salts provide magnesium—both essential for your Monstera’s health!
How and when to fertilize white monstera deliciosa?
We recommend fertilizing your Monstera White every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Apply the fertilizer directly to the soil – avoid the leaves, and always water the plant first to prevent root burn. Use a diluted solution at half strength to avoid overfeeding. In winter, reduce or stop fertilizing as the plant’s growth slows
What are the signs white monstera deliciosa needs food?
You’ll notice slower growth, smaller or pale leaves, and less vibrant variegation. Another sign we have noticed is if that the plant seems generally weaker or lacks its usual lushness – which becomes very apparent especially if it happens in the growing season (spring and summer)
Best fertilizer to use for white monstera deliciosa?
Pots and planters
What are the best pots to use for white monstera deliciosa?
For your Monstera White, we recommend using a pot that’s at least 2-4 inches wider than the root ball, as this plant grows large. Opt for a sturdy, heavy pot—ceramic or terracotta works well—to support its height and prevent tipping. Drainage is key, so make sure the pot has sufficient holes to avoid root rot. A deeper, rounded shape helps accommodate its growing roots. The weight of a heavier pot keeps it stable as it gets taller without needing to repot!
Our favorite Terracotta and ceramic pots
Watering
How and When to water white monstera deliciosa?
In its natural tropical habitat, the Monstera White enjoys consistent moisture but doesn’t tolerate soggy soil. Water it when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry—generally once a week during spring and summer, and once in three weeks or so in winter.
If you’re using a well-draining mix like one with loam and perlite, the water will flow through easily. Be sure to water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
what are the Signs of over or under watering white monstera deliciosa?
Overwatering your Monstera White leads to yellowing leaves – especially on the lower ones – and soft, mushy stems, which may develop black spots from root rot. If underwatered, the plant will show dry, crispy edges on its leaves and drooping, while the leaves curl inward.
In both cases, the soil condition helps—soggy soil indicates overwatering, while dry, compacted soil signals underwatering. Checking the soil moisture regularly either by immersing your fingers or by using a moisture meter.
Our favorite watering cans
($14)
($25)
pruning
When to prune white monstera deliciosa and why?
Pruning your Monstera White helps control its size, remove damaged leaves, and encourage new growth. The best time to prune is in early spring, before the growing season kicks in. Signs you need to prune: yellowing, damaged leaves, or when the plant becomes too leggy or overgrown. This also helps the plant grow tall which is its unique selling point!
how to prune white monstera deliciosa(step by step)?
Inspect the Plant: Look for yellowing, damaged, or overly long stems.
Sterilize Your Tools: Use sharp pruning shears and sterilize them with rubbing alcohol to prevent infection.
Start with Damaged Leaves: Cut any yellow or browning leaves at the base of their stems.
Trim for Shape: Identify overly long or leggy stems. Cut just above a node to encourage new growth.
Make Clean Cuts: Ensure each cut is diagonal to help water drain off and prevent rot.
Limit Removal: Prune only about 20% of the plant to avoid shock.
how to care after pruning white monstera deliciosa?
After pruning, place the plant back in bright, indirect light and reduce watering slightly to avoid stressing it while it heals. Pruned areas will regrow stronger and fuller over time!
propagating
When to Propagate white monstera deliciosa?
To propagate your Monstera White, stem cuttings in water or soil are the easiest methods. The best time to propagate is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing, ensuring a higher success rate!
how to Propagate white monstera deliciosa (step by step)?
1. Choose a Healthy Stem
Look for a stem with at least one node (the knobby part where a leaf attaches) and preferably an aerial root. This is where new roots will grow.
2. Cut the Stem
Using sharp, sterilized scissors, make a clean cut about half an inch below the node. Ensure your cut is diagonal to avoid water sitting on the wound. The node should look like the image shown above.
For water propagation: Place the cutting in a jar of room-temperature water, ensuring the node is submerged but the leaves stay above water. Change the water weekly.
For soil propagation: Plant the cutting in well-draining soil (use a mix of 40% loam, 30% perlite, 30% potting soil). Keep the node under the soil with one or two leaves above.
4. Provide Ideal Conditions
Keep the cutting in bright, indirect light. Ensure humidity is high (around 60%) and temperatures stay between 70-80°F (21-27°C).
5. Precautions
Avoid overwatering when propagating in soil. The node should stay moist, but not soggy, to prevent rot.
how to care after propagating white monstera deliciosa?
Once roots are 2-4 inches long (usually within 4-6 weeks), transplant the cutting into a permanent pot. Gradually introduce it to regular watering and fertilizing schedules. Keep it in indirect light. Typically after a month or two you’ll notice new growths!
Troubleshooting common issues
1. Why are the leaves of my white monstera deliciosa curling?
Cause: This might be a sign of underwatering, or low humidity.
Solution: Water the plant regularly – once every week or two in summer/spring, and once every three weeks in winter. If this doesn’t work, then mist the plant every other day for a couple of weeks or place a humidifier next to it. This should help.
2. Why are the white parts of my white monstera deliciosa turning brown?
Cause: The white variegation lacks chlorophyll, making it more sensitive to sunburn or dehydration when exposed to direct sunlight for longer durations.
Solution: Move it away from direct sunlight and ensure it’s receiving enough water without over watering – keep this plant ideally in front of a north facing or an east facing window.
4. Why are there Brown spots to the leaves of my white monstera deliciosa?
Cause: Brown or black spots could be from fungal infections, overwatering, or pest infestation
Solution: First, Trim affected leaves, and adjust watering. If this doesn’t work, inspect for pests on the leaves under the sides and on the stem. Apply a fungicide or neem oil to the leaves a few times to completely remove the infection. Depending on the severity, apply it ever once in 7-14 days till the infections last.
5. Why are the new leaves of my white monstera deliciosa smaller?
Cause: Fungal or bacterial infections due to overwatering, or consistently wet leaves.
Solution: Reduce watering and improve air circulation. Trim any affected leaves and avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. If it still doesn’t help, you can also consider using a fungicide or neem oil to get rid of the infection – Mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil with 1 quart of water and a few drops of mild dish soap to help the oil stick. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and mist the entire plant and repeat every 7-10 days until the spots clear up.
6. Why are the white areas of my white monstera deliciosa not expanding?
Cause: Variegation is genetically unstable, and poor lighting can cause the plant to revert to greener leaves
Solution: Provide bright, indirect light to encourage the white sections to thrive!
7. Why are my aerial roots of white my monstera deliciosa drying up??
Cause: Low humidity can cause the plant’s aerial roots to dry out and become brittle..
Solution: Mist the plant regularly and increase humidity by using a pebble tray or humidifier
curated styling tips for white monstera deliciosa
1.Ceramic Planter with Pebble Humidity Tray: Find an old ceramic bowl and drill drainage holes at the bottom to create an eco-friendly planter. Add a pebble-filled tray beneath to increase humidity without overwatering. Place the planter in a warm, bright spot, like near a north-facing window with sheer curtains. The reflective surface of the ceramic will highlight the white variegation of the Monstera’s leaves!
2.Bamboo Plant Divider: Use tall, eco-friendly bamboo sticks to create a natural room divider and train your Monstera White to climb it. Place the divider near an east-facing window for plenty of bright, indirect light. The bamboo not only offers structural support for the plant but also gives a tropical, zen vibe to your space. The white variegation of the Monstera leaves will contrast beautifully against the golden tones of the bamboo!
3.DIY Moss Pole Corner: Install a DIY moss pole made from eco-friendly coconut coir in a bright corner of your living room. Let the Monstera White climb the pole. Surround the base with stones for natural moisture retention to keep the humidity up. The variegated white and green leaves will stand out beautifully against a neutral-colored wall!
FAQ
Is white monstera deliciosatoxic to pets?
Yes, the Monstera White is toxic to pets due to calcium oxalates, which can cause irritation if ingested.
Does white monstera deliciosa like to be placed outside in summer?
Yes, but we should place it in a shaded spot with indirect light. Avoid harsh midday sun. Then, gradually acclimate it to the outdoors to prevent shock.
What are advantages and disadvantages of White monstera deliciosa?
Advantages:
Striking white variegation.
Air-purifying.
Climbs with support.
Easy care with proper conditions.
Disadvantages:
Toxic to pets.
Prone to sunburn.
Slower growth.
Expensive and rare.
How do I encourage larger, more fenestrated leaves for my white monster deliciosa?
To get bigger leaves, we need to provide ample bright, indirect light. Also – regularly feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer during spring and summer months. Bonsu: give it space to climb, as Monsteras grow larger leaves when supported by a moss pole or trellis.
Why are the aerial roots of my white monstera deliciosa growing so long?
Aerial roots help the Monstera White climb and absorb moisture from the air – if they’re getting too long, we can tuck them back into the soil or sometimes we have used them to support the plant on a moss pole or trellis.
Why is my Monstera deliciosa White growing slowly?
Slow growth is often due to insufficient light or nutrient deficiencies. We can encourage growth by increasing light exposure and fertilizing monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer (summer and spring months!)
