Variegata plants

Variegata is a distinctive feature of certain tropical plants. This may have arisen due to a mutation in the DNA. That mutation then causes a change in the chloroplasts in the plant, resulting in some areas of the leaves having lighter colors. Chloroplasts are responsible for a plant's photosynthesis and also contribute to the sturdiness of the plant cell. Plants with variegata are often less efficient in converting solar energy into nourishment for the plant itself. This makes the plant somewhat more vulnerable in various ways compared to the green version.

Why do people like variegata plants?

Variegata plants may not always be the easiest to care for, but their leaves often display breathtaking patterns and shapes. Since the colors in the leaves are nearly always unique in a variegata plant, the plant is often of high decorative value to the owner. Moreover, it's also exciting to anticipate the patterns that will appear on the next unfolding leaf.

Some well-known plants with variegata include Monstera deliciosa variegata, Monstera Thai Constellation, but there are also many Philodendrons and Epipremnums with variegata. Some variegata plants have only recently been discovered, making them exceptionally expensive.