The term “variegated” comes from the word variegatus in Latin which means composed of various colors. This beautiful array of colors is caused by some of the plant's cells lacking chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is the green pigment in plants that works to convert light into energy the plant can use.

How do plants become variegated?

Variation in leaf colour occurs because of a lack of the green pigment chlorophyll in some of the plant cells. It is usually the result of a cell mutation. ... The plants variegation can be inherited (genetic) or occur randomly (chimeric).

Where is variegated monstera from?

Thai constellation monstera is the most common variegated variety you see commercially being sold and is all over social media. You can find cuttings of the plant through private online sellers, but most specimens ship straight from Thailand.