Native to Southeast Asia, the Alocasia (Alocasia x amazonica) is a popular tropical plant with dark green leaves, which are accentuated by whitish or light green veins. The leaves are coarsely serrated, and in some cases the leaf color appears almost purple-green. It can reach 60 cm, if cared for in the right way, see how!
Caring for Alocasia
The good news is that growing Alocasia x amazonica is very easy: They like sun or filtered shade and rich, moist soil. Like most tropical plants, they thrive in warm temperatures and high humidity and crave lots of water.
Light
Amazon elephant ear plants require lots of indirect and bright light. They can survive in 80% shade but prefer around 60% shade which will ensure the best growth and a rich green hue on the leaves. Take care not to expose the plant to direct sunlight, which can bleach or burn the leaves.
Ground
This plant prefers a fast-draining, well-aerated potting soil. Loose, organic soil that contains a good amount of peat is ideal. If the soil mixture is too heavy, you can adjust it with a little sand or perlite. See all about soil types here!
See too
Water
keep the moist soil, but remember that donkeyfaces don’t like wet roots. If possible, water your plant in the morning from below (in the root zone) to prevent the leaves from getting too wet. The plant needs a rest period in the winter, so allow the soil to become nearly dry between waterings during these months. However, do not let it dry out completely, as the plant may go dormant.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, it will go dormant or die if exposed to cold temperatures. It likes to be in a climate similar to its native Southeast Asia, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 23°C.
In addition, the plant loves above average humidity levels. You can start by placing your Alocasia in a typically humid room in your home (like a bathroom), but you may also need to place the plant in a pebbled humidity tray or invest in a small space for a humidifier to place nearby.
Fertilizer
Alocasia x amazonica tends to need a lot of food during the growing season and responds well to applications of a diluted balanced fertilizer. From spring, fertilize the plant every two weeks, stopping at the end of summer and starting the cycle again at the beginning of the following spring. Occasionally, the leaves of the plant turn yellow – if this happens, try adding micronutrient fertilizers or sprinkle Epsom salts around the base of the plant once a month.
*Via The Spruce