A popular houseplant, it is easier to grow than some of its finicky relatives.
Pet owners should be aware that Alocasia maharani is considered toxic to cats and dogs.
What is a Jewel Alocasia?
The Spruce / Cori Sears
Some growers find the maharani easier to care for than other varieties like theAlocasia dragon scale.
So dont panic if you arent seeing any flowers.
Light
The maharani does best in several hours ofbright, indirect lightwhen grown indoors.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
A mixture of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal for these plants.
Water
The soil should stay consistently moist, but not wet between waterings.
In thefall and winter, you could cut back on watering as the plant requires less moisture.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
However, it will thrive ifprovided with some added humidity.
Fertilizer
To encourage vigorous growth it is best tofertilizethis Alocasia regularly during the active growing season.
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month during the spring and summer.
The Spruce / Cori Sears
Propagating Alocasia Maharani
The Alocasia maharani can bepropagated by dividing and growing its corms.
Propagating by corms is not quite as easy as propagating other houseplants, like pothos, from stem cuttings.
With a bit of patience and care, corm propagation is possible.
An Alocasia maharani with leggy growth on one leaf.The Spruce / Cori Sears
These steps explain how to grow a corm from a single bulb without soil.
However, if you have separated a corm with established growth skip to step three.
Choose a new pot for your Alocasia that is one to two inches larger than the previous container.
Water well after repotting and return it to the same location where it was thriving.
This Alocasia is susceptible to root rot which can occur as a result of wet soil conditions.
Keep an eye out for the following common problems.
Ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy and that the pot has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
If you notice yellow leaves on your Alocasia, check the roots for signs of root rot.
Remember that these jewel Alocasias grow naturally in humid rainforest conditions and appreciate high humidity when possible.
Leggy Growth
Under ideal conditions,this Alocasia has compact growthwith short stems and medium-sized leaves.
Leggy growth, or elongated stems, is an indication that your Alocasia maharani isnot receiving enough light.
Usually, you will notice that the stems are elongating towards the nearest light source.
Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse leggy growth, but you’re able to prevent it.
At maturity, it usually tops out at about 14 inches tall.
While local nurseries may not carry it, check online or with specialty plant shops.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
