Did you know … the Alocasia was the inspiration for the beanstalk of “Charlie and the Beanstalk”? The Alocasia plays a major role in all western and eastern versions of this fairy tale. Here you will find all information about the Alocasia care. Follow the instructions and your Alocasia stays happy for a long time. On this page you’ll find all information on Alocasia care, from the ideal spot until repotting instructions. Follow these guidelines and help your Alocasia live a long and healthy life.
The Alocasia is a stylish indoor plant known for its large leaves, leading the plant to be nicknamed “Elephant Ear”. There are 79 types, in all kinds different colors and sizes. The leaf shape varies enormously. The Alocasia Gageana, for example, has serrated leaves, the leaf pattern on the Alocasia Amazonica Polly looks a bit like a skeleton, and the leaves of the Alocasia Stingray have the shape of small stingrays. The stems can be quite colourful as well. The stems of the Alocasia Zebrina, for example, have a zebra print, and those of the A. Pink Dragon are coloured bright pink.
The Alocasia originates from the tropics of Southeast Asia, specifically on Borneo. Here the plant can grow up to 4 meters high. Given its tropical origin, the Alocasia is used to high humidity. It’s therefore important to make sure the potting soil is always slightly moist by regularly giving the plant small amounts of. Read on for all plant care tips.
Alocasia light requirements
Place the Alocasia in a very light spot, in filtered sunlight. Never place the Alocasia in direct sunlight as it can cause damage to the leaves.
The Elephant Ear prefers a warm spot in your home. Make sure to protect it from drafts, and never place the Alocasia near the heating. Whilst this spot is nice and warm, the humidity here is far too low.
Alocasia care: water
An important part of the alocasia care is watering. Make sure the potting soil is always a bit moist by regularly giving the plant small amounts of water. By not giving too much water at once, you also prevent a layer of water from accumulating at the bottom of the pot. Excess water can cause root rot.
Mist the Alocasia regularly using a plant spray. This way you maintain a high humidity level, which the plant needs. It also helps to protect the Alocasia against pests. Moreover, a regularly watered plant looks a lot better, as there is never a layer of dust on the leaves.
Tip: The Alocasia will let you know if you give too much water! The plant will then “sweat”: small droplets will form on the leaves. The plant gets rid of excess water this way. When you see these droplets, it’s a sign that you should give the plant a bit less water next time.
Repotting tips
The Alocasia grows quickly and needs proper support for its large leaves. That is why it is advisable to repot the plant once a year. Do this during spring, when the plant recovers fastest from repotting. Be careful not to damage the roots too much when repotting. Use a pot that is at least 20% larger than the current pot, so that the roots have plenty of room to grow. We recommend adding hydro granules when repotting. These provide drainage, so it won’t matter if you overwater the plant a bit.
Alocasia care: Fertilizer requirements
Once you receive the plant, it will not need any fertilizer for the next 2 months. This is because the plant can still obtain sufficient nutrition from the fresh potting soil. Apply fertilizer during spring and summer to promote growth. How much plant fertilizer you need to give is noted on the packaging. Never use more than recommended, as this can cause damage to the roots. The plant doesn’t need any fertilizer during fall and winter.
Is the Alocasia plant poisonous?
Almost all outdoor and indoor plants on Plantler have a decorative purpose; they’re not fit for consumption – unless it is explicitly stated that they are (i.e. a fruit tree). The juice in the branches and leaves of the Alocasia is slightly poisonous: it has an irritating effect on the skin and mucous membranes. Keep the plant out of reach from small children and / or pets, and wear gloves when repotting.
