Alocasia Care Guide

Tropical plants in the Alocasia genus feature stunning foliage that can become the centerpiece of a garden or room. Large rhizomes or tubers produce enormous heart-shaped or arrow-shaped ears, leading to the popular common name, elephant's ear.

Fast-growing Alocasia plants are most often grown as houseplants, but it's common to bring them outdoors during the warm months, sometimes burying the entire pot in the ground to create a natural look.

If you have children or pets, you might want to avoid these plants altogether because the leaves are toxic to humans and animals.

Water

Water your alocaias every 7 days in the hotter months and every 10-12 days in the cooler months. Let the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out before watering again.

Light

Filtered or indirect sunlight is best for its growth. Avoid keeping it under direct and intense Sunlight.

Humidity

Use a humidifier or spritz your alocasias every couple of days to keep the humidity up

Soil

Alocasias prefers porous soil. We suggest a mix of one part soil, one part perlite, and peat moss. You can also use well draining potting soil mixes from the store.

Toxic

This plant is toxic to pets

Common Problems

Symptom: Drooping leaves

Cause: Underwatering

Fix: Keep soil moist, consider misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidifier near your alocasia

Symptom: Yellowing leaves

Cause: Overwatering, not enough light

Fix: Keep a consistent watering schedule but remember alocasias like to stay damp but not overly wet. Remember some yellowing leaves are normal, plants will shed old leaves to send energy to the new ones!

Symptom: Leaf spots

Cause: Might be a sign that your plant has pest or a disease.

Fix: Avoid overwatering and provide proper air circulation. If you see pest on your plant check out the next tip.

Symptom: Plant pest

Cause: Houseplant pest like mealybugs, fungus gnats, and spider mites can happen

Fix: Treat them as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of a natural pesticide like neem oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant.