The genus Alocasia has spectacular large arrowhead leaves and glossy green foliage. African Mask plant (Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’) and Elephant Ears ‘Tiger’ (Alocasia zebrina) are two popular types of Alocasia that make excellent houseplants. Alocasia plants grow in moist soil and flourish indoors in warm, bright indirect light.
Despite the fact that Alocasia plants are a flowering plant species, their gorgeous leaves and dramatic foliage make them popular. The Kris plant (Alocasia amazonica), sometimes known as the African Mask plant, has striking black green triangular leaves with prominent white veins.
Green arrow-shaped leaves with an distinctive patterned arching stems with zebra-like designs are seen on the Alocasia zebrina, often known as Alocasia Leopard. Despite this, there are various Alocasia hybrids with varied features. You’ll discover eight stunning instances of Alocasia plants at the close of this piece.
Facts About Alocasia Plants
Alocasia plants grow on the forest floor in warm, tropical woods and jungles. Alocasia species can’t handle harsh winters or dry, arid environments. Nonetheless, provided they get enough light and humidity, they do well in pots indoors. Large perennial tropical plants with large leaves make up the majority of Alocasia species. The giant Night-Scented Lily (Alocasia odora), for example, grows to be between 4 and 8 feet (1.2 and 2.4 meters) tall.
The Alocasia hybrid Amazonian Elephant Ear (Alocasia amazonica) grows only to a height of 1–3 feet (0.3–1 m), while the smaller cultivar, Polly, grows only to a height of 1 foot (0.3 m). Similarly, the Alocasia zebrina ‘Tiger’ is only known to grow to be 3 feet (1 metre) tall. Alocasia species are tropical in origin, and only thrive outdoors in USDA zones 10 through 12.
Care and Growing Guide for Alocasia Plants
Alocasia plants prefer bright indirect light and grow in a loose potting medium with excellent drainage. Water the leaves of the Alocasia plants daily to promote humidity, and water them enough to keep their roots mildly moist. Between 60°F and 82°F (15°C and 28°C), Alocasia plants have a temperature range. During the growing season, these fast-growing houseplants need fertilizing.
Light Requirements for Growing Alocasia Plants Indoors
A bright, sunny area is ideal for Alocasia plants, but they must be protected from direct sunlight. Healthy development is aided by plenty of light, which keeps the vivid foliage intact. Alocasia plants prefer bright, east- or west-facing windows. Keep the plant at least 5 feet (1.5 meters) away from the window in a south-facing room, or cover it with a sheer curtain.
Houseplants that thrive in shade or dark rooms are not ones like the Alocasia ‘Polly,’ Tiger Alocasia, or Alocasia ‘Frydek.’ Their development will be hampered if there isn’t enough light. The leaves will yellow, fade, and die as a result of their color loss.
The Best Soil for Alocasia Houseplants
In porous soil with excellent drainage, grow Alocasia species. Equal parts of houseplant soil, peat moss, and perlite are ideal for growing alocasia plants. These potting soil ingredients retain just the right amount of moisture and allow for excellent drainage. Alocasia plant roots dislike soggy, damp conditions, but they do appreciate moist soil. For Alocasia houseplants, getting the soil composition right is a crucial concern. The tuberous roots can quickly rot and decay if the soil holds too much moisture.
Peat moss, perlite, or chicken grit are used in this mixture to provide nutrients without creating too much moisture. As a beneficial soil additive, peat moss promotes robust development. Crushed gravel, pumice, or perlite are examples of inorganic materials that aid water drainage via the potting mix.
How to Water Alocasia Plants
Alocasia plants need to be watered frequently in order to keep the soil hydrated. When the top 0.5 inch to 1 inch (1 – 2.5 cm) is dry, you can tell if your broad-leafed Alocasia needs water. Keep the soil moist all of the time by providing enough water. Alocasia plants perish if the soil is too wet or dry. In comparison to other houseplants, Alocasia plants are more sensitive. Soaking the soil and letting it partially dry is usually the ideal plant watering technique when growing other indoor plants.
Yet, it seems that keeping the soil moist with Alocasia plants is best achieved by watering only occasionally and reliably. It’s helpful to keep in mind that Alocasia plants go into dormancy. Growth almost stops during the dormant winter season, and some vegetation may die. Therefore, in order to avoid stressing the plants, only water Alocasia amazonica and Alocasia zebrina in the winter when the top 2″ (5 cm) of soil is dry.
Temperature Range for Alocasia Plant Care
In warm rooms, Alocasia plants such as Alocasia reginula, Alocasia macrorrhiza ‘Stingray,’ and Alocasia baginda ‘Silver Dragon’ flourish. For fast, vibrant growth, their optimum temperature range is 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). For Alocasia plants, a minimum temperature of 60°F (15°C) is required. It’s critical to understand that these warm-loving plants may be killed by cold temperatures.
In USDA zones 10 through 12, Alocasia plants flourish outdoors. In the summer months, you may bring your potted alocasias outside. Your patio, deck, or balcony can get a tropical look with these plants. The potted plants, on the other hand, must be protected from direct sunlight and cold drafts.
Humidity Requirements for Alocasia Plants
To flourish indoors, Alocasia plants need between 50 and 60 percent humidity. These moisture-loving plants need watered household air. Mist the Alocasia leaves daily, use a humidifier, or place the pot on a pebble tray half-filled with water to boost humidity to encourage proper development.
How to Fertilize Alocasia Plants
During the growing season, extra fertilization is beneficial to Alocasia zebrina, Alocasia amazonica, and other Alocasia houseplant types. Apply a diluted houseplant fertilizer every two weeks from spring through late summer. You could also encourage good development by using a slow-release plant fertilizer. Mineral salts in the potting soil are frequently buildupd by chemical houseplant fertilizers. Other chemicals may also impact Alocasia plant development if you water it with tap water.
Natural, organic houseplant fertilizers are a good way to help keep your Alocasia plants growing well. Chemicals that may harm roots are not left behind. Leave water out in a jar all night to evaporate the chemicals and bring it up to room temperature before watering your plants.
How to Repot an Alocasia Plant
Alocasia plants don’t need repotting that often. When these plants are slightly rootbound, they prefer to grow in pots. In reality, frequent repotting of an Alocasia plant may stress the plant for a period of time and produce drooping growth. Always choose a pot one size larger than the current one to repot an African Mask Plant or Tiger Alocasia.
For alocasias, use the correct soil mix and move it to a bigger pot. Inspect the roots for signs of rot or damage while repotting. Repotting is a wonderful opportunity to create a new plant if you have a big Alocasia, such as the Alocasia amazonica, Alocasia macrorrhiza ‘Stingray,’ or Alocasia macrorrhizos ‘Giant Taro.’
Propagating Alocasia Plants
Root division or separating the plantlets are two ways to propagate alocasia plants. You may cut sections from the tuberous rhizome roots of Alocasia plants to create new ones. Little “baby” plants may sometimes be seen growing near the plant’s base, rather than large mature plants.
You may remove them and place them in a fresh pot. It’s important to remember to maintain Alocasia plants in a warm and humid environment when propagating them. Additionally, after propagation, don’t be concerned if the plant development is sluggish. After a few weeks, the alocasias should come back to life.
Do Alocasia Plants Need Pruning?
Pruning Alocasia plants is seldom required. As new leaves develop on the plant, old leaves turn brown and die. To enhance the plant’s look, you may remove yellowing or deceased leaves.
Pests Affecting Alocasia Plant Growth
Mealybugs and spider mites are the most common houseplant pests that affect Alocasia plants. To exterminate these terrible pests, use a natural neem oil spray. Just mix 2 tsp. together and you’re ready to go! In a spray bottle, combine neem oil, a few drops of liquid dish soap, and a quart (1 l) of warm water.
Weekly spraying with liberal doses of pesticides helps to eradicate the pests. Houseplant bugs can damage your valuable alocasias if you fail to take care of them properly. Weak Alocasia plants that do not get enough light, have insufficient moisture, or are overwatered are all magnets for pests.
What Diseases Affect Alocasia Plants?
If you overwater the potting soil, root rot can infect any Alocasia species. Make sure the soil is neither waterlogged, soggy, or overly wet. If the tuberous roots are growing in too-moisture soil, they may begin to rot immediately. Wait until the top 1″ to 2″ (2.5 – 5 cm) of soil is dry if you notice evidence of overwatering, such as yellowing leaves and drooping growth.
You may attempt to repot your Alocasia in a new potting soil if it does not come alive after several days. Before replanting, remove any dead roots. You may, however, have to trash the plant if the rot is significant.
Are Alocasia Plants Toxic?
Cats, dogs, other animals, and people should not eat any of the plants in the genus Alocasia. Alocasia species contain poisons that may cause oral swelling and gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed, according to the ASPCA. If you have pets or children at home, keep these plants away from them.
FAQ About Growing Alocasia Indoor Plants
Why do Alocasia plant leaves turn brown?
Impaired humidity is usually indicated by alocasia plant leaves that turn brown. Maintain humidity by misting the leaves daily to prevent brown patches from forming. Before dropping off, old leaves may turn brown. If your plant is healthy, you should see new leaves growing in its place, which is normal.
Why Alocasia leaves turn yellow
The most common cause of yellowing on an Alocasia plant is overwatering. Yellow Alocasia leaves may also be caused by too much direct sunlight, frigid drafts, insect infestation, or a lack of nutrients. It’s important to establish the reason for yellow foliage and correct it.
What are the reasons for water drops on Alocasia leaves?
When the potting soil is somewhat too wet, you may sometimes see a droplet of water on the tips of Alocasia leaves. The plant is “sweating” to eliminate excess moisture, so drops on leaves are nothing to be concerned about.
How long is Alocasia dormancy?
During the winter, all Alocasia species have a dormant period. Just provide the plants minimal water and do not fertilize them at this time. When life returns to this tropical plant species, Alocasia dormancy comes to an end in the spring.
Why Alocasia plants have drooping leaves
Under-watering is often indicated by drooping foliage on Alocasia plants. Give the plant a good watering and make sure that the soil remains slightly moist to help it recover. Alocasia plants may keep healthy, robust development if the dirt is allowed to dry somewhat between watering. Drooping Alocasia plant growth can also be caused by insufficient light, pests, or a soil nutrient deficiency.
Species of Alocasia Plants
Let’s take a closer look at some of the main characteristics of popular Alocasia plants. Houseplants for some of these tropical species, but huge greenhouses for others. The most stunning types of Alocasia plants can be found here.
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia amazonica is a gorgeous perennial plant with dramatic foliage that may be kept in homes. The plant of the Elephant Ear has broad, dark green arrowhead leaves with white or light green veins and curving edges. The eye-catching leaves of Alocasia amazonica may grow up to 3 feet (1 metre) tall. It is a very long process, and it takes a long time. Warm, bright, humid conditions are ideal for this Alocasia species.
Alocasia Amazonica ‘Polly’
The Alocasia amazonica “Polly” is a tiny cultivar that thrives indoors and is commonly known as the African Mask plant. The glossy green leaves of the compact Alocasia plant have prominent greenish-white veins. The wavy edges of the arrow-like leaves, which are akin to a kris or keris dagger, are another characteristic that distinguishes them from other leaves.
Alocasia Zebrina
Alocasia zebrina is a tropical houseplant with animal-like patterns on its long arching stems. The distinctive characteristic of this plant is the dark green stalks with creamy-white or light green lines. Alocasia zebrina is known as the Tiger Alocasia, Alocasia ‘Leopard,’ or Alocasia ‘Tiger,’ and it grows well in bright, warm conditions with plenty of humidity.
Alocasia Odora
The Alocasia odora, also known as the Night-Scented Lily, is a magnificent plant with massive paddle-shaped leaves that is gorgeous to look at. The big leaves can grow up to 2 feet (0.6 meters) long and 1 foot (0.3 meters) broad. This plant is also known as the Giant Upright Elephant Ear plant because of the size and shape of its leaves. The lovely fragrance emitted by this Alocasia species at night is a characteristic of it.
Alocasia Micholitziana ‘Frydek’
The Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek’ is a houseplant that resembles the Alocasia amazonica but has velvety-looking leaves rather than glossy ones. The leaves of this Alocasia plant are arrow-shaped and have white veins, giving them a lovely appearance. Alocasia grows to be 2–3 feet (0.6–1 m) tall, with a spread of 2 to 3 feet (0.6–1 m).
Alocasia Calidora
The Persian Palm, also known as Alocasia calidora, is a tropical plant with huge dark green leaves. Upright growth is characteristic of this Alocasia species. The leaves of the Calidora Elephant Ear plant may be up to 6 feet (2 meters) long and 3 feet (1 meters) broad. The Alocasia calidora may reach a height of 5 to 9 feet (1.5 to 2.7 meters) in favorable conditions.
Alocasia Macrorrhiza var. ‘Lutea’
The Golden Lutea Elephant Ear plant is a huge Alocasia plant species with thick yellow stalks, lime green leaves, and yellowish veins. Due to its golden yellow stems, Alocasia “Lutea” is often referred to as “Golden Lutea.” The leaf of the plant is shaped like an arrow head with significant veins, as is the case with many Alocasia species.
Alocasia Macrorrhiza ‘Stingray’
The spectacular Alocasia macrorrhiza has rippled, oval leaves that resemble a stingray, with a lengthy tip. The unusual houseplant thrives in warm, bright, humid environments and grows up to 3 feet (1 meter) tall.