Alocasia macrorrhiza varigata

Alocasias can roughly be grouped into two types. The smaller, beautifully patterned ‘jewel’ alocasias and the larger growing types. Although the care of both is similar, the jewel alocasias can be a little tricker to grow.

Larger alocasias include Alocasia macrorrhizos (and its numerous hybrids), Alocasia wentii, Alocasia culcullata and several other species. Jewel alocasias include Alocasia melo, Alocasia cuprea, Alocasia azlanii and several other species and hybrids.

Despite their lush looks, alocasias are best treated as a semi succulent. Alocasias grow from an underground rhizome that will easily rot away if it receives too much water. Jewel alocasias in particular require an extremely free draining mix and prefer to be grown in a pot not much larger than the rhizome itself. An ideal mix for alocasias is equal parts potting mix, course perlite and lava rock (such as scoria, quincan or pumice). Concrete gravel (old crushed up concrete) is also a useful addition.

Although some of the larger alocasias will cope with full sunlight in a garden situation. Most are best suited to dappled light too low light conditions. If growing alocasias indoors then consideration should be given to making sure your alocasias have sufficient airflow and high humidity. Only water alocasias once the medium has completely dried out. Foliar feeding weekly will grow them big and lush and a slow release fertiliser added at the time of potting is useful. Fungal problems are best prevented by not over watering, proper ventilation and allowing your plants to dry out. If you notice fungal disease on the leaves, use a commercial fungicide as per directions. The sudden death of your alocasia, with the leaves dropping and dieing within a few days, is evident of root rot and the plant is best disposed of. Mites can be an issue for alocasias grown indoors. Spray and then wipe both sides of the leaves with white oil on a regular basis to prevent pest problems and to keep the leaves looking healthy and shiny. Severe infestations will need to be treated with a commercial mitacide as per directions.