In the summer, alocasia grows quickly, producing a new leaf every week.
However, it’s important to know that the plant is toxic to humans and pets.
Read on to learn more on how to take care of alocasia, so your plant flourishes.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
Warning
Some alocasia speciesare considered invasive especially along the Gulf Coast of the United States.
Consult with your local municipality beforeplanting them outdoors.
The light intensity and length depend on the species or cultivar.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
Some large varieties tolerate full direct sunlight, and their leaf color tends to be more defined.
Soil
Plant alocasia in a loose, well-drained potting mix.
The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
The Spruce / Corinne Bryson
Use a standard all-purpose peat-based potting mix or special potting mix for aroids.
If necessary, improve the soil drainage by amending the mix with orchid bark orperlite.
This will help keep the soil evenly moist.
The Spruce / Corinne Bryson
Soggy soil makes the plant susceptible to fungal infections androot rot.
They require less water during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Temperature and Humidity
Alocasia does not tolerate temperatures below 60F and requires very humid environments.
The Spruce / Corinne Bryson
Keep the plant away from cold drafts from windows, doors, and air conditioning.
Fertilizer
Especially larger specimens are heavy feeders.
Stop feeding your alocasia during its dormant phase in the winter.
Is This the Right Plant for You?
It’s best to prune your alocasia when it is actively growing in the spring or summer.
Tip
Because of the toxicity of alocasia, always wear gloves when handling the plant.
Propagating Alocasia
Most alocasia plants are easy to propagate by clump or rhizome division in the spring.
We’ve tested and reviewed the best pruning shears to bring you ourtop ten picks.
Potting and Repotting Alocasia
It is key to use a pot with large drainage holes for alocasia.
There are pros and cons to using a porous or nonporous container for your alocasia.
These fast-growing plants don’t mind being slightly root-bound but need repotting when visibly outgrowing the pots.
Repotting should be done in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
However, most alocasiaspecies are prone tospider mites.
Alocasia Bloom
Alocasiaare grown primarily for their foliage.
The plants only bloom when they reach maturity and their flowers are unremarkable.
Indoor plants rarely bloom.
It’s likely a watering issuetoo much, or possibly too little, causes leaves to discolor this way.
Alocasia needs several inches of water a week.
Their leaves can also turn yellow if they’re growing in a pot that is too small.
Repotting might be the answer.
These plants need even moisture, so change your watering habits if the soil is soggy or too dry.
Take care not to overwater and keep in humid conditions with bright, filtered light.
If your alocasia has yellow and mushy leaves, you may have overwatered it.
Let the soil completely dry out before watering it again.
With so many species to choose from, the lifespan of an alocasia differs depending on the species.
humid climate, alocasia is best grown as a houseplant.
Are Plants in the Alocasia Genus Poisonous?.
National Capitol Poison Center.
University of Florida Gardening Solutions.
