Description
- Common names:
- Alocasia Serendipity, Black Elephant Ear, Oreja de Elefante Negra, Alocasia Negra
- Botanical name:
- Alocasia Hybrid 'Serendipity'
- Description:
- A striking hybrid Alocasia with large, heart-shaped purplish-green leaves and dramatic dark purple undersides accented by lime green stems and veins – perfect for tropical interiors.
Features
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Toxic to All Pets (keep out of reach)
- Rarity:
- Rare Collector's Plant
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Architectural, Large Foliage, Variegated Leaves
- Air Purifier:
- Good Air Purifier (7/10)
- Origin:
- Southeast Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room statement piece, Bathroom tropical oasis, Office focal point, Modern interiors, Bohemian styling
Care Guide
Care level:
For Experienced Owners+
This plant requires attentive care with consistent watering, high humidity, and protection from temperature fluctuations and cold drafts. It's not forgiving of neglect and demands a stable environment to thrive.
Light:
Medium / Indirect Light+
Thrives in bright, filtered light away from direct sun – ideal near an east or north-facing window. Harsh afternoon sunlight will scorch the leaves, while too little light causes leggy growth and leaf discoloration.
Water:
Keep Soil Moist+
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, checking that the top inch remains slightly damp. Water thoroughly when the surface begins to dry, as this jungle plant dislikes drought but is extremely sensitive to root rot from overwatering.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Requires humidity levels above 60% to prevent leaf browning and curling. Use a humidifier, place on a pebble tray with water, or group with other tropical plants to maintain adequate moisture in the air.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F) and is very sensitive to cold – never expose to temperatures below 15°C (60°F). Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and unheated rooms during winter.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures remain consistently warm year-round. In cooler zones, it must be grown as an indoor plant or brought inside before temperatures drop below 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 dormancy.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years in spring or when roots become visible through drainage holes and growth slows. Use a well-draining, rich potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark to prevent waterlogging.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe the large leaves with a soft, damp cloth every 1-2 weeks to remove dust and allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently. This also helps you spot pests early and showcases the stunning purple undersides.
Propagation:
Division+
Best propagated by carefully dividing the rhizomes during repotting in spring, ensuring each division has at least one growing point and healthy roots. Plant divisions in moist, well-draining soil and maintain high humidity until established.