Description
- Common names:
- Alocasia Ebony, Ebony Elephant Ear, Oreja de Elefante Ebony, Elephant Ear Plant
- Botanical name:
- Alocasia 'Ebony'
- Description:
- A striking Alocasia featuring arrow-shaped, deep green leaves with luminous silver-green veins. Thrives in high humidity, making it perfect for terrariums, bathrooms, or near water features.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Architectural, Variegated Leaves
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- Southeast Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Bathroom, Living Room, Terrarium, Near Water Features, Tropical & Bohemian Styles
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
This plant requires consistent high humidity and attentive watering, making it best suited for plant owners with some experience. It's less forgiving of environmental neglect than beginner-friendly plants.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light will fade the stunning vein patterns.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch feels slightly dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure excellent drainage.
Humidity:
Requires Misting+
Thrives in humidity levels above 60-70%. Use a humidifier, place on a pebble tray with water, or mist leaves regularly to maintain optimal moisture levels.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C / 65-80°F. Avoid cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and temperatures below 15°C / 60°F which can damage the foliage.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors year-round only in USDA Zones 10-12. In cooler zones, grow as a houseplant or move containers outdoors during warm summer months when temperatures stay above 15°C / 60°F.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce or stop feeding in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing through drainage holes. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as Alocasias prefer a snug fit.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe leaves weekly with a damp, soft cloth to remove dust and showcase the beautiful silver veining. Clean leaves also improve photosynthesis and help the plant breathe more efficiently.
Propagation:
Division+
Propagate by carefully dividing the rhizomes during repotting in spring. Ensure each division has at least one growing point and some roots attached for best success.