Variegation. What is it and what causes it to happen?

Most plant enthusiasts know what variegated plants are and what they look like, but why are only some plants variegated and how does it work? In this blog post we will take a closer look at how variegation works biologically, and discuss why variegated plants are more sought after than their non-variegated counterparts.

What is variegation?

Variegation at its most basic level refers to the diversity of colours. In terms of horticulture, it is when a plant contains more than one colour. When we think variegated plants, we tend to immediately think 'Monstera Albo' or 'Marble Queen'; where in actual fact, any plant with multiple colours falls in the category of variegated plants.

Different types of variegation

Let's take a look at 3 frequently occurring types of variegation often found in common indoor plants:

Chimeral Variegation

The form of variegation most commonly known in plant hobbyist circles is Chimeral Variegation. This is when a plant exhibits irregular white spots or patches on its leaves and stems. Chimeral variegation is caused by a genetic mutation where certain areas of the plant do not produce chlorophyll in the photosynthetic cells. The cells without chlorophyll pigmentation are white or yellow in colour, and are what we know and love as the variegation in the plant.

Reflective Variegation

Reflective- or Blister Variegation is another form of variegation that we often see in many common plants such as the Scindapsus genus, better known as the Satin Pothos family. These plants have a beautiful silvery sheen on their leaves. The silver sheen is a result of Reflective Variegation, where small air spaces or pockets form between the lower and upper layers of the leaves. When light falls on the air pockets, it reflects a silvery shine creating the variegated appearance.

Natural Variegation

As the name indicates, Natural Variegation is hardwired into a plant's biology. It is the most stable form of variegation, and is not a genetic or viral mutation. Many plants have iconic colour variations that are passed down from one generation to the next. Striking examples such as the Caladium family display a kaleidoscope of colour variations in lovely patterns.

Final thoughts

Interest in indoor plants has increased exponentially over the past few years and has sparked a great demand for unique, rare and iconic plants. The reason why Chimeral Variegation in a plant is so desirable, is because the Chimeral genetic mutation cannot be reproduced through seedlings. It is not naturally passed down generationally. Plants displaying this trait can only be propagated through cuttings taken from a plant with the genetic mutation, which increases the rarity and demand of such a plant. Recently, a variegated Raphidophora Tetrasperma cutting with only 2 leaves was put on sale for $1800 on an online nursery in the US. Exorbitant prices such as these are often seen in the rare and collectable plant market.

Being aware of market trends and doing research before making a purchase will reduce the risk of buying overpriced plants and also lower the chance of paying for a product that is not up to standard. Knowledge and education is key in the crazy 'indoor-plant hobbyist jungle', and the more we know, the better we are able to enjoy this wonderful avocation.

Share your favourite variegated plant with us in the comment section!

Photo credit: Linda Engelbrecht @Botanically