Alocasia (Elephant Ear)

Light

Alocasia requires indirect but bright light and is not suitable for low light areas of the home.  However direct rays from the sun will burn the leaves. 

Watering

Water your Alocasia once a week through the growing season. In colder months allow top 2 inches of soil to become dry to avoid root rot, although leaves will brown if soil is left dry for long periods of time. 

Humidity

Alocasia love humidity which you can achieve through misting them often or by placing in a bathroom. 

Temperature

Alocasia prefers temperatures between 18-25c, they do not cope well with sudden changes in temperature and drafts in the home. Therefore its best to avoid placing it near drafty windows or doors. 

Fertilizer 

Feed your Alocasia with an all-purpose house plant feed once a month throughout the growing season (March-September). 

Toxicity

Alocasia is toxic to pets and people if consumed, it is best placed in an area away from children and pets. 

Additional Care Information

Alocasia go through a phase of dormancy in the colder months.  If you start to notice the leaves are dying off don’t panic, simply cut off the bad leaves and stems, this will encourage new growth faster when the growing season returns. 

Troubleshooting

Leaves dropping off or stems going soft is a sign of overwatering. Should this happen cut off affected leaves and stems and allow soil to dry out completely before its next watering.  Brown and dry patches on leaves indicates either too much sunlight or not enough humidity, move the plant to a more shaded area of the house and mist frequently.