Heres how to care for this beautiful houseplant.
Alocasia tends to need more attention, says Justin Hancock, horticulturist with Costa Farms.
Some alocasia go dormant if its too cool, too dry, or the light levels are too low.
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It will drop leaves, causing you to think its dead.
Once alocasia starts to go downhill, it happens fast.
Thats not something you might say about most houseplants.
Justin Hancockis a horticulturalist with tropical plant and houseplant growerCosta Farms.
Alocasia Care
Give alocasia plants as much bright, indirect light as possible, says Hancock.
If you dont have a bright window, a grow light also works.
But dont put them in direct sunlight, which can fry their foliage.
Also, keep them away from drafty windows and heat or air conditioning vents.
Alocasia likes consistent temperatures and high humidity.
As is the case with most houseplants, overwatering can cause serious problems.
Light
Place your alocasia in or near a window for bright but indirect light.
An east-facing window is often ideal because it catches morning light rather than the hot afternoon sun.
A little bit of dappled sunlight in the morning is fine.
Alocasia doesn’t do well inlow-light situations, so use a grow light to supplement if needed.
Soil
Use a nutrient-rich, well-draining potting mix for alocasia.
Stick your finger in the soil and water when the top 2 inches of soil feels dry.
If youre in doubt, wait another few days and check again.
Generally, a little too dry is better than a little too wet with these plants, says Hancock.
In winter when the plants are dormant, you’ll want to water slightly less frequently.
Fertilizer
During the growing season, feed your plant with a balanced, liquidhouseplant fertilizerdiluted to half-strength.
Do so every four to six weeks, then stop in the fall and winter.
Alternatively, you’ve got the option to give them some granular time-release general-purpose fertilizer if you like.
A good first-time choice for indoors is the dwarf variety,A.
x amazonicaPolly, because its widely available and not too expensive.
The shiny green ‘Polly’ has the characteristic shape and deep veining of African mask.
Use sharp, sterile pruners and cut at the base of the stem.
Wear gloves so the plant doesn’t irritate your skin.
Others prefer to allow the foliage to die back first so the plants can complete their natural growth cycle.
Propagating Alocasia
Propagating alocasia byleaf cuttingsis very difficult.
If you’d like to create more plants, propagate by division.
(Check first if your variety is patented, in which case it can’t be propagated legally.)
An ideal time would be when your plant is root-bound and ready to be repotted.
Replant at the same depth in fresh potting mix and keep the soil moist until your alocasia is established.
Remove your plant and inspect the roots, cutting away any diseased or rotting roots with sterile pruners.
Loosen the roots a little before repotting.
Fill around the plant with fresh potting mix and water well.
Wait three months before fertilizing the plant, or even longer if that brings you into the winter season.
Gently wipe the leaves to remove pests and then spray with insecticidal soap.
These plants commonly experience root rot or leaf spots from overwatering.
Remove any damaged foliage and adjust watering and light exposure as needed.
Alocasia typically bloom about once a year.
Common Problems With Alocasia
Alocasia can be fickle if you don’t care for it properly.
Overwatering is the most common problem.
Check soil moisture to see if your plant needs watering, or reduce watering if you have been overzealous.
Start by checking soil moisture and water if needed.
Also check for any webbing or signs of pests, which can cause leaves to curl.
Move the plant to a more protected location or install a sheer curtain to filter the light.
Crispy edges or brown tips on leaves can also be a sign of low humidity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Alocasia plants appreciate humidity.
However, too much misting can lead to fungal disease.
Mist in the morning so the leaves will have a chance to dry.
You canmove alocasia outdoorsduring summer.
They will enjoy the humidity and grow more vigorously.
However, they must be placed in a sheltered spot away from direct sunlight.
Rainy weather can also cause rot.
Like most plants, alocasia plants release excess moisture through the leaves.
This isn’t necessarily an indication of overwatering and can occur on a perfectly healthy plant.
North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox.Alocasia.
