Alocasia boast some of the most striking foliage in the world of houseplants! There are about 100 types and they originate from SE Asia and eastern Australia.
Their large, deeply veined arrow or heart-shaped leaves look almost pre-historic due to their intriguing array of reptilian patterns. They will certainly ‘make a statement’ in your collection, appearing classy and even ‘dignified!’
Fast growing, they prefer good light and a warmer environment indoors and in the more ‘sub tropical’ areas of New Zealand, can even be grown outdoors, if protected from any weather extremes.
How much light does your Alocasia need?
The ideal light conditions are bright and indirect indoors, protected and part-shade outdoors. Its natural habitat is on the forest floor growing up beneath the tree canopy, with the darker pigmented varieties not requiring quite so much light.
What type of soil does your Alocasia need?
Alocasia prefer a loose well-draining potting mix or a crumbly loam, slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) Like all houseplants, they don’t like getting ‘wet feet,’ so an orchid bark or perlite can be added.
What temperature is best for your Alocasia?
They like warm, humid conditions, in the range of 17-30C. A pebble tray or humidifier will help in this respect but keep away from a draughty or air conditioning vent situation.
They can be sensitive to big temperature fluctuations, so in winter, if you have them near a window, make sure that the curtain is pulled at night.
How much water does your Alocasia need?
Alocasia, like our Alocasia Watsoniana enjoy a good drink, especially in the warmer months, but the soil must be moist, not soggy as this can lead to fungal infections and root rot.
Allow the top 2 inches to be dry to the touch between watering and ensure adequate drainage at all times.
What’s the best fertilizer for your Alocasia?
Alocasia are nutrient-hungry during the key Spring and Summer months, so a liquid mix of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium will promote healthy foliage growth and strong roots.
A slow release variety is best to keep the nutrients constantly available and since they are relatively heavy feeders, every 2 weeks or so in the warmer months is the ideal.
General Care Tips for your Alocasia:
Prune to remove damaged, dying or dead foliage in Spring/Summer. Re-pot every 3 years or so, making sure their new container has plenty of drainage holes. Alocasia are prone to spider mites so wipe the top of the leaves AND underneath them with mild soapy water and even Neem oil.
Alocasia store their energy in their tubers, so even if they look somewhat forlorn or neglected, they can bounce back with proper management.
The Green Grower’s Rating of Alocasia:
If you want to make a statement, then purchasing an Alocasia will certainly do it! Extremely appealing for their visual and sculptural appeal, they will be that stand-out focal point indoors or out. Toxic to pets.