Grow this exotic-looking tropical plant with eye-catching foliage indoors as a houseplant or outdoors during warmer weather.
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Alocasia is an ornamental plant grown for the large heart- or arrow-shaped foliage that resembles elephant ears, hence the common name. Also known as African mask plant, alocasia is most commonly grown indoors as a houseplant, though it can also be grown outside during warmer months in beds, borders and containers. Alocasia varieties occur in many different leaf colors, sizes and shapes.
Native to tropical regions of the South Pacific, Asia and eastern Australia, these captivating tropical plants can reach 10 feet tall, though will remain smaller as an indoor houseplant. Alocasia grows from tubers or rhizomes and goes dormant in winter. Though alocasia can be somewhat finicky, it will thrive indoors when given the right growing conditions.
With their lush tropical foliage, Alocasia plants make stunning additions to indoor plant collections. Native to the jungles and forests of Asia and Australia, Alocasias thrive when grown in greenhouse-like conditions indoors. By providing the right care and environment you can keep your Alocasia healthy and vibrant. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share the top tips for successfully growing Alocasia plants indoors and keeping them looking their best.
Overview of Alocasia Plants
Alocasias, also known as Elephant Ears, are a genus of over 80 tropical perennial plants that are increasingly popular as houseplants. Most boast broad, arrowhead-shaped leaves on long, erect stems. Their foliage comes in a range of colors from emerald green to nearly black, with many varieties sporting veining, spots, or streaks.
While Alocasias will occasionally bloom with unique hooded flowers, they are prized for their dramatic leaves rather than their blooms. These tropical beauties make a bold, architectural statement in any indoor space when provided with the right care.
Indoor Growing Conditions for Alocasia
Because they hail from steamy Asian and Australian jungles, Alocasias prefer warm, humid environments with indirect sunlight Replicating these conditions in your home is key to keeping them looking lush and healthy
Here are the optimal growing conditions to provide your Alocasia indoors:
Light
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Some varieties can tolerate a few hours of morning sun. Direct hot sun will scorch the leaves.
East or west-facing windows are perfect spots. If light is insufficient, supplement with grow lights Rotate the plant periodically to prevent lopsided growth toward the light.
Temperature
Alocasias prefer warm conditions between 65°F to 80°F. Keep away from cold drafts and avoid exposing them to temps below 60°F. Don’t place plants near heating/cooling vents or hot radiators.
Humidity
High humidity is a must! Recreate the steamy jungle environment with levels between 50-70%. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or frequently mist leaves.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top few inches of soil become dry. Take care not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Allow excess water to drain freely from the drainage holes.
Soil
Use a chunky, well-draining potting mix, such as one made for aroids. Soil should retain some moisture but not get waterlogged.
Caring for Your Indoor Alocasia
With the right growing conditions in place, caring for your Alocasia mainly involves monitoring watering, providing nutrition, and pest control.
Watering
Water when the top several inches of soil become dry, taking care not to saturate or overwater the plant. The soil should remain lightly moist between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in winter during dormancy.
Fertilizer
Feed every 2-4 weeks during spring through fall using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Discontinue fertilizing over winter.
Pruning
Remove any dead, dying, or damaged leaves and stems to maintain an attractive appearance. Pruning also encourages new growth.
Pest Control
Inspect leaves regularly for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs and scale. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays.
Propagation
Take divisions from the rhizome or plant offsets to propagate your Alocasia and make new plants.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years in spring, moving up one pot size. This provides fresh soil and room for growth.
Common Alocasia Problems and Solutions
Here are some common issues you may encounter and how to fix them:
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Drooping leaves – Usually a sign of underwatering. Check soil and water if dry.
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Wilting – Can indicate overwatering. Allow soil to dry out before watering again.
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Leaf tip browning – Caused by dry air. Increase humidity around plant.
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Leaf yellowing – Often a sign of overwatering or insufficient light. Adjust watering and move to a brighter location.
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Leggy growth – Not enough light. Provide supplemental lighting.
Tips for Keeping Alocasia Thriving
Follow these tips to keep your Alocasia healthy and looking its best:
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Provide warm temperatures and ample humidity.
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Water thoroughly when soil becomes partly dry.
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Give bright, indirect light or supplement with grow lights.
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Feed regularly during growing season.
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Prune off dead leaves and stems for best appearance.
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Repot every few years into fresh potting mix.
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Watch for pests and treat any infestations promptly.
Ready to Add Alocasia to Your Collection?
With their tropical jungle allure, Alocasia plants make living works of art indoors. By replicating their preferred growing conditions and providing attentive care, you can keep your Alocasia looking lush, vibrant, and picture perfect. Just be prepared to transport yourself to the steamy tropics each time you care for these jungle beauties!
How poisonous is Alocasia?
Alocasia contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are mildly to severely toxic for animals and humans if any part of the plant is ingested. Keep plants out of reach of pets and small children, and wear gloves when directly handling plants to prevent possible skin irritation.
ALOCASIA CARE & PLANTING
How to plant: Plants prefer to be slightly pot bound. Wait to transplant until roots are visible in the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. Repot in spring when plants begin putting on new growth.
- Choose a pot that is 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter and slightly deeper than the previous pot.
- Remove the plant from its current pot and check for any signs of root rot. Tease out roots if compacted and cut out any visibly rotted or damaged sections. Divide rhizomes as needed and plant extra rhizomes in separate containers.
- Place fresh potting soil in the bottom of the new pot.
- Set rhizomes in the pot at the same level as they were in the previous container.
- Add fresh potting medium around the sides of the root ball up to the base of the stem.
- Press down soil gently to remove air pockets and water well. Avoid fertilizing for the next 3 months.
Light: Alocasia plants grow natively under a dense rainforest canopy with bright shade or dappled sunlight. Place indoor plants in a location that receives bright indirect light such as a window with eastern or western exposure. Outdoors, grow in a spot that receives open shade. Avoid direct sun exposure to prevent leaf scorch. Alocasia light needs can be supplemented with artificial grow lights.
Temperature: Alocasia does best in temperatures between 60 to 85 degrees F. Don’t allow temperatures to drop below 60 degrees F. Keep plants away from cold drafts and heating vents, and avoid any sudden change in temperature.
Humidity: Alocasia is accustomed to high humidity in its native habitat. Plants can be grown in a bathroom, kitchen or other humid environments. To increase the humidity around the plant, use a room humidifier or place plants on a pebble tray filled with water. To prevent root rot, don’t allow the bottom of the pot to sit in water.
Soil: Grow in a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture. Use a potting mix specially formulated for alocasia, or a high-quality all-purpose potting mix with additional amendments to improve drainage such as orchid bark, perlite, peat moss, vermiculite or coco coir.
Watering: Keep alocasia soil evenly moist. Dry or soggy soil can cause plant stress. Water when the top 2 to 3 inches of the soil is dry to the touch. Allow water to flow into the pot until you see liquid coming out of the drainage hole. As plants are susceptible to root rot, discard any standing water in the saucer beneath the pot. Reduce alocasia watering in fall and winter when plants go dormant, keeping the soil slightly moist. Plants may be sensitive to tap water that contains excess minerals or chlorine. If plants develop spots on the leaves, switch to distilled water or allow tap water to stand for 24 hours before using.
Fertilizing: Feed once or twice a month during the growing season with a liquid fertilizer formulated for houseplants diluted to half strength, or use a slow-release fertilizer.
Pruning: Trim off any yellow, damaged or diseased leaves as needed. Wear gloves when pruning alocasia to avoid possible skin irritation.
Additional care: Alocasia plants will likely go dormant during winter months. Keep plants in a warm place and cease fertilizing. Reduce watering but don’t allow the container to completely dry out. Resume normal feeding and watering when plants begin to show new growth in spring.
Mastering Alocasia Care – Tips and Tricks
FAQ
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