Welcome to the fascinating, albeit challenging, world of Alocasia houseplants! Elephant ears, as they are also called, are far from easy to care for, but their unique beauty makes the challenge worthwhile. In this article we will show you the basics of Alocasia care and introduce you to different Alocasias.
The most popular Alocasia species
Alocasia plants are very popular among houseplant lovers because their variety of Alocasia species offers a fascinating selection for every urban jungle at home. The generous arrow-shaped leaves give them a tropical flair. However, each Alocasia has its unique characteristics and requirements that need to be discovered. Here are some of the most popular houseplants in detail.
Alocasia zebrina
The Alocasia zebrina , also known as the zebra plant, is a species native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia. Its distinctive zebra-like stripes on the slender stems make this plant an eye-catcher.
Alocasia cucullata
Alocasia cucullata comes from various regions of Asia, especially China and Sri Lanka. This species is known not only for its heart-shaped, glossy leaves, but also for its robustness and compact growth. This houseplant is good for beginners. It is also known as copper arrow leaf.
Alocasia macrorrhiza
The impressive Alocasia macrorrhiza or giant taro originally comes from the rainforests of Southeast Asia: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Solomon Islands, New Guinea or Queensland could be its home. With its huge, heart-shaped leaves that are reminiscent of elephant ears, it is a true jungle giant and needs a lot of space in the home as a houseplant.
Alocasia baginda – dragon scale, silver dragon & green dragon
Alocasia dragon scale , silver dragon and green dragon are three variants of the same plant species known as Alocasia baginda . It is a terrestrial Alocasia species adapted to the calcareous areas of Borneo. They impress with their unique scaly leaves, which are reminiscent of the skin of a dragon.
Alocasia micholitziana frydek
Alocasia micholitziana frydek , Alocasia frydek for short, comes from the Philippines. With its velvety green leaves and striking white veins, this elephant ear is a real eye-catcher.
Alocasia sanderiana
The Alocasia sanderiana plant has a very striking leaf structure and color. It has dark green, shiny leaves with light green to white veins. The leaf edges are rather serrated and the leaf is arrow-shaped but elongated. This Alocasia also comes from the Philippines and is threatened with extinction!
The right care
When caring for your Alocasia plant, you should make sure that it is given a suitable location: a bright to partially shaded place with indirect light and high humidity. Wipe the leaves regularly to remove dust and allow for better photosynthesis.
Water elephant ear
Watering is crucial to the well-being of the Alocasia plant. Water regularly, but make sure that excess water can drain away easily to avoid waterlogging. The soil should be slightly moist, but not soggy. Once a week, stick your fingertip into the soil and only water when it comes out dry.
Fertilize the elephant ear
Fertilizing is essential for houseplants because they grow in a small space in pots and the nutrients in the soil are quickly used up. Balanced fertilization provides the plant with the necessary nutrients, promotes vigorous growth and supports the development of large leaves. For sustainable care, we recommend using an organic liquid fertilizer. During the growing season in spring and summer, you should fertilize the Alocasia plant every two weeks.
The FARBIO® organic liquid fertilizer for green plants is ideal for supplying alocasia with the most important nutrients and thus helping them to grow healthily and sustainably.
With the extra boost of nitrogen , FARBIO® Nitrogen Bio-Boost not only ensures uniform leaf and root growth for your Alocasia, but also lush green leaves.
Repotting Alocasia
Spring is the ideal time for repotting. Check whether your Alocasia is filling the pot with its roots - because then it's time for a larger pot. Use sustainable, organic soil or mix your own substrate for tropical houseplants. Here you can find out how to do it.
Carefully tip the old pot to the side and squeeze the sides to loosen the plant. Look for dead or rotten roots and remove them. Then place the plant in the center of the pot and fill it with soil until it is full. Press the Alocasia carefully to ensure a stable hold. You should then water the plant thoroughly so that all of the soil is well moistened.
The most common pests and diseases
Brown leaf tips on your plant are no reason to panic, as it is usually a care error: the humidity is not high enough. Simply help by regularly spraying the leaves of your plant with water from a spray bottle .
The Alocasia is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, thrips and scale insects. It is important to check the leaves regularly for signs of small critters and treat early with environmentally friendly products such as neem oil.
To avoid the disease root rot, the soil should be well-drained and watering should also be done via the saucer.
Our FARBIO® organic microcomplex protects your plants and uses essential trace elements to ensure that they become more vital and resilient.
Is Alocasia poisonous?
Yes, Alocasia is poisonous to humans and animals because it contains calcium oxalate crystals. Therefore, caution is advised, especially in households with children and pets.
