If you’re a plant enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the Monstera Thai Constellation. This stunning plant is a variegated Monstera Deliciosa that’s grown from tissue culture in Thailand.
The plant’s leaves have a unique marbled pattern of cream and green, resembling a starry night sky, which is why it’s called the “Constellation.”
However, caring for the Thai Constellation Monstera can be a bit tricky. Due to the initial plant used for cloning already contains the Phytophthora fungus, so clones are more prone to root rot than other Monstera types. But don’t worry, with the right care and attention, you can keep your Thai Constellation Monstera thriving.
In this article, we’ll go over some actionable care tips to help you keep your Monstera healthy and happy.
Monstera Thai Constellation Overview
If you’re looking for a unique and eye-catching houseplant, the Monstera Thai Constellation is a great choice. This plant is a variegated mutation of the popular Monstera Deliciosa, which means it has striking star-like variegation on its large, fenestrated leaves.
The variegated pattern is produced from tissue culture in a plant lab in Thailand, making the plant rare and expensive.
The Monstera Thai Constellation is a relatively new addition to the houseplant market, but it has quickly gained popularity among plant enthusiasts. It’s easy to see why – the plant’s unique variegation makes it a stunning addition to any indoor space.
One thing to keep in mind if you’re considering adding a Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ to your collection is that it can be a bit finicky. The initial plant that was used for cloning already contained the Phytophthora fungus, which can make clones more prone to root rot than other Monstera types.
Therefore, it’s important to make sure you’re providing the right conditions for your plant to thrive.
Origin and Name
The Monstera deliciosa Thai Constellation received its name based on its distinct variegation pattern and the origin of its cultivation. The term “Thai” in the name refers to Thailand, the country where this particular variety was first discovered or selectively bred.
The name “Constellation” is likely attributed to the unique splashes or speckles of creamy yellow or white on the dark green leaves, resembling stars or constellations in the night sky. This chunk variegation pattern sets it apart from the typical Monstera deliciosa, which features solid green leaves.
The naming of plant varieties often involves a combination of factors, including the plant’s appearance, origin, and the individual or nursery responsible for introducing or popularizing the cultivar.
In the case of the Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’, its name reflects both its origin and its striking variegation, capturing the attention and fascination of plant enthusiasts worldwide.
Physical Characteristics
The Thai Constellation Monstera is a unique and beautiful plant with striking physical characteristics. Its large, fenestrated leaves are the most notable feature of this plant. The leaves can grow up to 12 inches in diameter, making it a great statement piece in any room.
One of the most striking features of this plant is its variegated leaves. The variegated pattern is produced from tissue culture in a plant lab in Thailand, making the plant rare and expensive. The leaves have a white and green star-like pattern that resembles the night sky, making it an attractive addition to any plant collection.
The Monstera Thai Constellation, like all plants, uses chlorophyll to photosynthesize and produce energy. However, the variegated leaves of this plant have less chlorophyll than the green parts, which means they are less efficient at photosynthesis. This makes it important to place the plant in a well-lit area to ensure it gets enough light to thrive.
The edges of the leaves are smooth and not as ‘holey’ as the leaves of the Swiss cheese plant (Monstera adansonii). However, the fenestrations on the leaves are still present, giving the plant a unique and interesting look.
Monstera Thai Constellation Care and Growth
When it comes to growing Monstera Thai Constellation, it’s essential to provide the right growing conditions and care. This section will cover the key factors you need to consider to keep your coveted houseplant healthy and thriving.
Light Requirements
Monstera Thai Constellation requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow well. Direct light can damage the leaves, while low light conditions can slow down its growth.
A curtain or a sheer cloth can be used to filter the sunlight and create the ideal light conditions for your plant. If you don’t have access to natural light, you can use artificial grow lights to provide the necessary light. This might be very necessary during the cooler winter months.
Watering and Humidity
Monstera prefers moist soil but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water your plant once a week, ensuring that the soil is well-draining and that there is a drainage hole in the pot. You can also mist the leaves to increase humidity levels, or use a humidifier to maintain high humidity levels.
To ensure you are not under watering or overwatering you can purchase a moisture meter to detect levels. Tropical plants need plenty of moisture and humidity, but too much and they will begin to rot.
Soil and Potting
The Thai Constellation grows well in a basic mixture
When repotting, use a pot that is one size larger than the current pot, and add a moss pole for support as the plant grows taller. Repotting should be done every two years to ensure the plant has enough room to grow.
Temperature and Climate
This colorful Monstera prefer temperatures between 64°F − 70°F (18 to 21 degrees Celsius) and high humidity levels. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10 degrees Celsius) or above 90°F (32 degrees Celsius), as this can damage the leaves and slow down its growth.
This plant is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can add a touch of tropical beauty to any indoor space. By providing the right growing conditions and care, you can ensure that your plant stays healthy and thriving for years to come.
Root Care
The Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ possesses a typical root system for a Monstera deliciosa plant. It develops adventitious roots, which are specialized roots that emerge from the stem or nodes of the plant rather than from the primary root system. These monstera adventitious roots play a crucial role in anchoring the plant and absorbing water and nutrients from the surrounding soil.
The adventitious roots of monstera are usually aerial in nature, meaning they may be exposed above the soil surface or even develop in mid-air if provided with a suitable environment.
These aerial roots are a distinctive characteristic of Monstera plants and can often be seen dangling from the stem or reaching out towards a support structure.
Aerial roots can be utilized by the plant to climb and attach itself to trees or other surfaces in its natural habitat. However, when grown as a houseplant, they can serve an aesthetic purpose and add to the unique appearance of this cultivar of Monstera deliciosa.
It’s essential to provide these roots with appropriate support or a moss pole if desired, as it mimics their natural growth habit and helps the plant thrive.
Propagation
If you want to propagate your Monstera Thai Constellation, you have a few options. One of the most common ways to propagate is through stem cuttings. To do this, take a stem cutting with at least one node and place it in water or soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, humid environment until it begins to root and grow new leaves.
Another option is to propagate through tissue culture. This is a more complex process that involves taking a small piece of tissue from the parent plant and placing it in a sterile, nutrient-rich environment to encourage growth.
This method is often used by nurseries and plant labs to mass-produce plants.
To propagate the Monstera Thai Constellation, you can follow these steps:
- Select a healthy plant: Choose a mature Monstera Thai Constellation plant with multiple stems or nodes. Nodes are small, brownish bumps on the stem where roots and new growth emerge.
- Prepare a cutting: Using clean and sharp pruning shears or a knife, take a cutting that includes at least one node. Make a clean cut just below a node and ensure the cutting is around 4-6 inches in length.
- Remove lower leaves (optional): If desired, you can remove a few of the lower leaves from the cutting to expose more nodes and increase the chances of successful rooting.
- Place in water or soil: You have two options for propagation: water propagation or soil propagation.
- Water propagation: Place the cutting in a jar or glass of water, ensuring that the node is submerged. Keep the water level consistent and change it every few days to prevent stagnation.
- Soil propagation: Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone (optional), then plant it directly into a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the node is covered with a few inches of soil and gently press the soil around the cutting to secure it.
- Provide the right conditions: Regardless of the method you choose, place the cutting in a warm and bright location with indirect sunlight. Keep moisture levels adequate for growth. Maintain a consistent level of humidity by misting the leaves or using a humidity dome or plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse effect.
- Monitor and care for the cutting: Keep a close eye on the cutting and ensure that the water level (for water propagation) or soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
- Wait for roots to develop: After a few weeks or months, roots should start to form from the node. Once the roots are a few inches long and well-established, you can transfer the cutting into a pot with well-draining potting soil.
Remember, propagation success can vary, so be patient and allow nature to take its course. With proper care and patience, you can successfully propagate your Monstera Thai Constellation and enjoy new plants for yourself or to share with others
When propagating these trendy houseplants, it’s important to keep in mind that variegated plants can be less stable and more prone to reverting to non-variegated forms. To help maintain the balanced variegation, make sure to propagate from healthy, variegated sections of the plant.
Propagation can be a rewarding way to expand your collection of Monstera Thai Constellations. Whether you choose to propagate through stem cuttings or tissue culture, make sure to provide your new plants with the proper care and environment to ensure their success.
Pricing and Availability
If you’re interested in purchasing a mature plant you should be prepared to pay a premium price. These plants are notoriously expensive due to their rarity and high demand. Prices can vary greatly depending on factors such as the size of the plant, the quality of the variegation, and the seller’s location.
In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to several thousands of dollars for a single exotic plant. The most expensive plants tend to be larger, well-established specimens with highly desirable variegation patterns.
However, even smaller plants can be quite pricey, especially if they are being sold by a reputable seller with a strong reputation.
One reason why this beautiful Monstera is so expensive is because they are difficult to propagate. Unlike many other houseplants, they cannot be grown from cuttings or seeds. Instead, they must be propagated through tissue culture, which is a complex and time-consuming process. This means that there is limited supply of these plants, which drives up the price.
Another factor that affects the price of the Thai Constellations is their quality. Plants with more vibrant and consistent variegation patterns are considered to be of higher quality and are therefore more expensive. Additionally, plants that are free from pests and diseases are more valuable than those that are not.
Despite their high price, these expensive variegated houseplants are still in high demand among plant enthusiasts. If you’re interested in purchasing one of these plants, it’s important to do your research and find a reputable and experienced seller who can provide you with a high-quality specimen.
Keep in mind that prices can vary greatly depending on where you live and where you’re buying from, so be prepared to shop around to find the best deal.
NOTE: There are no seeds for the Thai Constellations so if you find a seller, they are most likely selling the all-green Monstera Deliciousa. You will not end up with a variegated plant so don’t be fooled by these bad sellers!
Common Problems and Solutions
Growing a fabulous Monstera ‘Thai Constellation‘ can be a rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are some common problems you may encounter and solutions to help your plant thrive.
Pests
Mealybugs and thrips are two common pests that can infest your Monstera ‘Thai Constellation‘. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow.
Thrips are tiny, black or brown insects that also feed on the sap of the leaves, causing them to become distorted and discolored.
To get rid of mealybugs or thrips, you can use a solution of diluted dish soap and water to wash the leaves. Alternatively, you can use neem oil or insecticidal soap to kill the pests. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid using too much, as this can damage your plant.
Stunted Growth
If your Monstera Thai Constellation has slower growth or even stopped growing, it may be due to a lack of nutrients or light. Ensure that your plant is receiving enough light, fresh soil, and consider fertilizing it with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
Toxicity
The Monstera Thai Constellation is toxic to pets and humans, so be sure to keep it out of reach of children and pets. If you have pets, consider placing your plant in a room that they cannot access.
Panama Disease
Panama Disease is a fungal disease that can affect your Monstera Thai Constellation. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as stunted growth. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Panama Disease, so it’s important to prevent it by avoiding overwatering your plant and ensuring that it has good drainage.
Interesting Facts
If you’re a houseplant enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of the Monstera Thai Constellation. Here are a few interesting facts about this unique plant:
- The Monstera Thai Constellation was created in a lab through tissue culture. It is a mutated cultivar from the well-known Monstera Deliciosa, which is native to southern Mexico.
- This means that you won’t find the yellow-to-white Monstera variegated Deliciosa growing in the wild. It was first released to the public in 2018 by Costa Farms, a well-known plant nursery.
- The Thai Constellation is a relatively new addition to the houseplant world, but it has quickly become a favorite among plant collectors. It’s easy to see why – the variegated leaves are stunning and unique.
- If you’re looking to add a Monstera Thai Constellation to your collection, be prepared to pay a premium price. These plants can be quite expensive, with some specimens selling for hundreds of dollars.
- Unlike some other houseplants, the Monstera Thai Constellation is not grown from seed. Instead, it is propagated through cuttings. This means that each plant is a clone of the original and will have the same variegation pattern. This one mother plant has had thousands of baby plants over time!
- If you’re lucky enough to have a Monstera Thai Constellation in your home, be sure to give it the care it needs. This includes keeping it in a well-draining
potting mix , providing it with bright, indirect light, and watering it regularly (but not too much!).
Monstera ‘Albo’ vs ‘Thai Constellation
Monstera ‘Albo’ and Monstera ‘Thai Constellation’ are both variegated cultivars of the Monstera deliciosa species, but they differ in their variegation patterns and availability.
Monstera Albo features leaves with a white or cream variegation that can vary in intensity. The variegation typically appears in the form of large sections or splashes on the leaves, creating a bold and eye-catching contrast against the dark green background. It is a highly sought-after variety and can be quite rare and expensive due to its popularity.
On the other hand, ‘Thai Constellation’ exhibits a variegation pattern characterized by creamy yellow or white speckles or small sections scattered across the dark green leaves. This creates a more dappled or star-like appearance, resembling constellations in the night sky.
‘Thai Constellation’ has gained significant popularity for its unique variegation and has become a sought-after plant among collectors.
In terms of availability, The Albo Monstera is often harder to find and can command a higher price due to its rarity. Monstera ‘Thai Constellation’ has gained wider availability in recent years but is still considered a desirable and relatively rare cultivar.
Both plants require similar care, including bright indirect light, moderate watering, and well-draining soil. They can be grown as climbing or trailing plants and thrive in warm and humid environments.
When comparing Monstera albo vs Thai constellation, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding the specific variegation pattern and availability. Both are expensive houseplants and cultivars can add a touch of beauty and intrigue to any plant collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the unique features of the Monstera Thai Constellation plant?
A: Monstera Thai Constellation is a variegated Monstera plant that has unique patterns and colors on its beautiful leaves. The leaves are typically green with white or cream-colored spots and patches. The variegation of the leaves is stable and does not change over time.
Q: What is the ideal growing environment for Monstera Thai Constellation?
A: Monstera Thai Constellation prefers bright, indirect light and a warm, humid environment. It thrives in temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and requires well-draining soil. The plant should be watered regularly, but overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.
Q: How can I propagate Monstera Thai Constellation?
A: Monstera Thai Constellation can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a stem with at least one node and place it in water or soil until it develops roots. It is important to keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, humid environment until it has established roots.
Q: Is it normal for the leaves of Monstera Thai Constellation to have holes?
A: Yes, it is normal for the leaves of Monstera Thai Constellation to have holes or splits. This is a characteristic of the Monstera plant and is often referred to as fenestration. The holes or splits in the leaves develop over time as the plant matures.
Q: What is the average price range for Monstera Thai Constellation?
A: The price of Monstera Thai Constellation can vary depending on the size and availability of the plant. On average, a small plant can cost between $50 and $100, while a larger plant can cost upwards of $200.
Q: Can Monstera Thai Constellation be grown indoors or outdoors?
A: Monstera Thai Constellation can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it prefers a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light. If grown outdoors, it should be protected from direct sunlight and cold temperatures. When grown indoors, it should be placed in a location with adequate light and humidity.
Q: What are some similar houseplants to the Thai Constellation
A: If you’re looking for plants with a similar aesthetic to the Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’, which features variegated leaves with creamy yellow or white splashes, here are a few options:
- Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’: This plant is another popular variegated Monstera variety, commonly known as the Monstera Variegata Albo. It showcases large, heart-shaped leaves with beautiful white variegation. The variegation patterns can vary, with some leaves displaying more white coloration than others.
- Philodendron gloriosum: This Philodendron species has heart-shaped leaves that exhibit velvety green texture and silver-white veins. Although it doesn’t have the same splashes of variegation, its unique foliage and patterned texture make it an attractive alternative.
- Epipremnum aureum ‘Snow Queen’: Also known as the Snow Queen Pothos or Devil’s Ivy, this plant features heart-shaped leaves with splashes of white or light yellow variegation. It’s a trailing vine that can be a great addition to hanging baskets or displayed on shelves.
- Syngonium podophyllum ‘Confetti’: The Confetti Syngonium displays arrowhead-shaped leaves with speckled variegation in shades of white, cream, and green. Its compact size and trailing growth make it an excellent choice for smaller spaces or hanging planters.
- Aglaonema ‘Silver Bay’: This Aglaonema variety features broad leaves with silver-gray variegation, similar to the Monstera Thai Constellation’s overall aesthetic. It’s a low-maintenance plant with an elegant appearance that adds a touch of sophistication to any setting.
These plants offer unique foliage and patterns, although they may differ from the specific variegation of the Monstera Thai Constellation. As with any plant, it’s essential to consider their care requirements and suitability for your specific conditions.
Final Thoughts
Caring for the Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ is a delightful journey that rewards you with a stunning and unique plant. By providing bright, indirect light, moderate watering, and well-draining soil, you can ensure its growth and vibrant variegation.
Don’t forget to accommodate its climbing nature by offering a supportive moss pole or trellis for it to thrive. Regularly dusting its large, fenestrated leaves not only keeps them clean but also enhances their beauty.
As you nurture and watch this striking plant grow, it will bring a touch of the tropical into your home, filling your space with its impressive foliage and creating a captivating atmosphere. Embrace the joy of caring for the Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ and let it flourish as a statement piece in your indoor jungle.
Happy growing my fellow plant parent!
