Variegated houseplants are now trendy. Therefore many common plants already have variegated versions with pretty leaf patterns and unusual colors. Getting such a green (or white, pink, and even black) pet will bring a new accent to your home oasis, so where to start?
What is a variegated plant?
Variability is the presence of cells in plants with a changed genetic code. Such cells are not able to synthesize chlorophyll. Variability occurs due to the lack or absence of chlorophyll in some areas of the leaf blade. Other dyes replace them: xanthophyll, carotene, and anthocyanin. This affects the color of the leaves. Sometimes the leaves are decorated with a yellow, white, pink, ivory, red, and light green pattern. Variability often looks either integral — parts of the leaves divided into different colors, or like marble — the leaves are covered with small streaks of lighter color.
The most interesting variegated forms appeared as a result of the work of breeders. Sometimes it is tough to find a variegated version of the plant. Also, plants with variegated leaves require special treatment and some skills in gardening. Unacceptable housing conditions can lead to loss of variability! The leaves of variegated plants are very tender. They like a lot of diffused sunlight, and they also prefer lower temperatures (of course, within reason). We have created a selection of the most popular indoor variegated plants. Choose yours!
Monstera
Variegated monsteras look gorgeous! The variability of varieties differs, such as Albo and Thai Constellatio, Deliciosa Variegata, Adansonii Variegata, Obliqua Peruvian Form, etc. By the way, Monstera Albo variegate is a costly plant. Once, one botanist bought it at auction for 5 thousand dollars(!)
String of Hearts
Variegated String of Hearts or Ceropegia woodii variegata is a scarce plant. It is appreciated for the edges of the tiny leaves-hearts that are decorated with light pink or even purple colors. To maintain this magical shade, the plant needs constant sunlight.
Rubber Plant
There are many varieties of Rubber Plant, and sometimes they are very different. They are more common than monsteras, so it is a perfect option to choose if you want to start with something. Take a look at these variegated rubber plant species: Ficus elastica Doescheri, Tineke, Tricolor, Ruby.
Spider Plant
The variegated Spider Plant is one of the easiest to care for. Actually, most of these plants are variegated, and finding a flowerpot with solid green leaves will be challenging. However, the variegated leaves look pretty cute, so it is also an excellent plant to start.
Jade Plant
Oval succulent leaves of variegated Jade Plant, also known as Crassula Tricolor, have white stripes. In bright sunlight, they can get some light shades of pink. These leaves look a bit like chocolate sweets, don't they?
ZZ Plant
Variegated ZZ Plant has the same care preferences as its classic sibling: it is fond of little neglect. There are plants with slight variegation and ones that are nearly entirely white-yellow (Zamia Albino) or even black (Raven). Aso, take a look at the ZZ Zenzi plant. It is an uncommon dwarf variety of ZZ plants with dark green foliage and slightly curled leaves.
Banana Plant
The variegated banana plant is unique. Sounds crazy, but white stripes decorate not only the leaves but even the fruits of this plant. Earlier, only elite royalty could eat such fruits. Now you can try to grow one at home!
Philodendron
You can decorate your house with different versions of the philodendron — white and pink princesses from the rainforests of South America. They are easy to care for, but the leaves are toxic! No wonder people say that beauty is deceptive. The Melanochrysum and Gloriosum varieties are also definitely worth noting. Their leaves can grow up to a meter long, even at home!
Syngonium
The variegated Syngonium is still quite difficult to find, but we are sure it will become more affordable over time because of high demand. Syngonium is not so picky about the location, and it is rather a fast-grower. Choose it if you want to grow swiftly wild tropics at home.
Fern
Ferns with variability are very diverse. We advise you to pay attention to Tiger Fern with a cascading stream of speckled leaves, Pteris cretica' Albolineata', or Variegated Cretan Brake Fern and its gray-green leaves with white stripes. The multi-colored brake fern is also worth noting.
Hope this selection of variegated versions of popular houseplants made you think of getting another green (or white, yellow, or pinkish) friend! Getting one is a great way to decorate any interior and challenge your plant-care skills.
