Description
- Common names:
- Red Secret Alocasia, Elephant Ears, Alocasia Oreja de Elefante, Red Secret, Copper Alocasia
- Botanical name:
- Alocasia cuprea 'Red Secret'
- Description:
- Stunning tropical plant with metallic green and red-toned leaves featuring deep ridges and an ultra-glossy shine. A rare jewel-toned beauty that adds dramatic elegance to any space.
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, Variegated Leaves, Architectural, Glossy Foliage
- Origin:
- Southeast Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room statement piece, Office desk accent, Bedroom focal point, Modern interiors, Bohemian style, Plant collections, Display shelves, Bright corners
Care Guide
Care level:
For Experienced Owners+
This tropical beauty requires careful attention to humidity, temperature, and watering needs, making it best suited for experienced plant parents who can provide consistent care and monitor its specific environmental requirements.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Thrives in bright, filtered light near an east or west-facing window with a sheer curtain. Direct sunlight will scorch the delicate leaves, while too little light will diminish the stunning metallic coloration and slow growth.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Overwatering can quickly lead to root rot, while underwatering causes leaves to droop and brown at the edges.
Humidity:
Requires Misting+
Requires high humidity levels above 60-70% to thrive and prevent crispy leaf edges. Use a humidifier, place on a pebble tray with water, or group with other plants to maintain optimal moisture levels.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C / 65-80°F and will not tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 15°C / 60°F. Keep away from air conditioning vents, cold windows, and drafty doorways to prevent stress and leaf damage.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy only in USDA Zones 10-12 where it can be grown outdoors year-round. In cooler zones, this tropical plant must be kept indoors or brought inside when temperatures drop below 15°C / 60°F.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength monthly during the growing season from spring through summer. Reduce or stop feeding 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 the plant becomes top-heavy. Use a well-draining potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark for optimal aeration.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the glossy leaves weekly with a damp, soft cloth to remove dust and maintain their stunning metallic shine. Clean leaves also allow the plant to photosynthesize more efficiently and showcase its dramatic coloration.
Propagation:
Division+
Propagate by carefully dividing the rhizome during repotting in spring, ensuring each section has at least one growth point and healthy roots. Plant divisions in well-draining soil and maintain high humidity until established.