Description
- Common names:
- Frydek, Green Velvet, Alocasia Frydek, Terciopelo Verde
- Botanical name:
- Alocasia micholitziana 'Frydek'
- Description:
- Stunning Alocasia with velvety green arrowhead leaves featuring striking white veins and rich burgundy undersides. A tropical showstopper that demands attention in any bright space.
Features
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Variegated Leaves, Architectural, Velvet Texture
- Origin:
- Southeast Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room statement plant, Modern interiors, Bohemian styling, Office desk accent, Bright bathroom shelf
Care Guide
Care level:
For Experienced Owners+
This Alocasia requires attentive care with specific humidity, temperature, and watering needs, making it best suited for plant enthusiasts with experience. It is unforgiving of neglect and is particularly sensitive to cold temperatures and inconsistent moisture levels.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or north-facing window where it receives bright, filtered light throughout the day. Avoid direct sunlight which will scorch the delicate velvet leaves, and insufficient light will cause slow growth and loss of variegation.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to maintain consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil. Use the finger test and ensure excellent drainage, as both overwatering and allowing the soil to dry out completely can cause leaf loss.
Humidity:
Requires Misting+
Thrives in humidity levels above 60% and will struggle in dry indoor air. Use a humidifier, place on a pebble tray with water, or mist leaves daily to prevent brown edges and maintain the velvety leaf texture.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Maintains optimal growth in warm temperatures of 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 as this can cause severe damage or plant death.
Hardiness zones:
Indoor Only+
This tropical Alocasia is not cold-hardy and must be grown as an indoor houseplant in all USDA zones. It can be placed outdoors in a shaded area during warm summer months only if nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 15°C / 60°F.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 3-4 weeks during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce feeding to every 6-8 weeks or stop entirely during fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots begin growing through drainage holes or when growth becomes stunted. Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter and choose a pot only 1-2 inches larger than the current one.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the velvety leaves weekly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and maintain their striking appearance. Clean leaves allow better light absorption and photosynthesis, and regular inspection helps catch pests early.
Propagation:
Division+
Propagate by carefully dividing the rhizomes during repotting in spring, ensuring each section has at least one growing point and healthy roots. Plant divisions in appropriate potting mix and maintain high humidity while new growth establishes.