Description
- Common names:
- Alocasia Melo, Jewel Alocasia, Elephant Ear, Oreja de Elefante
- Botanical name:
- Alocasia rugosa
- Description:
- A captivating Alocasia with thick, jade-green to blue-green textured leaves that resemble cardboard. Perfect for adding exotic drama to your indoor jungle with its sculptural, upright form.
Features
- Rarity:
- Rare Collector's Plant
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Architectural, Textured Leaves, Terrestrial Grower
- Origin:
- Southeast Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room Statement Piece, Office Desk Corner, Modern Interiors, Tropical Style Spaces, Plant Collector Shelves
Care Guide
Care level:
Intermediate+
This Alocasia requires consistent care with attention to humidity, warmth, and watering schedules. It's not forgiving of cold temperatures or neglect, making it better suited for plant enthusiasts with some experience.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or west-facing window with bright, filtered light for best leaf color and growth. Direct sun will scorch the thick leaves, while too little light causes slow growth and leaf loss.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, keeping the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot, so ensure excellent drainage.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels above 60%, which helps maintain the thick, vibrant leaves. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or group with other plants to maintain adequate moisture in the air.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C / 65-80°F and is extremely sensitive to cold. Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and never expose to temperatures below 15°C / 60°F.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures remain consistently warm year-round. In cooler zones, it must be grown as a houseplant or brought indoors before the first frost.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly during the active growing season (spring through early fall). Reduce feeding in winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing through drainage holes and the plant becomes top-heavy. Use a well-draining, aroid-specific soil mix and choose a pot only one size larger.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the thick, textured leaves with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently. This also helps you inspect for pests.
Propagation:
Division+
Best propagated by division during repotting when the plant has formed multiple corms or offsets. Carefully separate the rhizomes with roots attached and pot them individually in well-draining soil.