The Alocasia Amazónica is one of those plants that will steal all eyes, as it has a beautiful shape and colors that are impossible to ignore. Its leaves are dark green, furrowed by very well defined white lines, they have a lanceolate shape and a natural shine that will captivate you. Plus, there's something imposing about the size of its leaves that has made it one of my favorite Alocasia varieties.
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If you take care of a
couple of details, you will discover that it is a perfect plant to have indoors and that it is not difficult to take care of. Pay attention to all the points that we explain in this brief guide to the care of the Alocasia Amazónica and release its exuberant and natural beauty.
Although
- its name may suggest otherwise, Alocasia Amazonica is a plant native to Southeast Asia.
- This plant is also known as Elephant Ear or African Mask.
- It is a perennial plant, which means that it has a life cycle of more than 2 years as long as you take good care of it.
- Alocasias are characterized by having an underground rhizome, which is a thick root that functions as a nutrient reserve. From this rhizome the leaves and flowers are born.
- It can reach up to 60cm in height or more, as long as it has enough space for its roots to develop. It can also get very bushy and reach 60 cm wide.
- For this plant, the most crucial aspect to ensure its growth and success is humidity.
- The Alocasia Amazonica has the ability to flourish, although it rarely does. The flower (which is actually a bract) is similar to the flowers of the Peace Lily but a bit more bulbous, which is not surprising since they both belong to the same family, the Araceae.
- It is a poisonous plant. It has a compound called Calcium Oxalate that causes respiratory problems. Keep it away from small children and pets that may bite it.
How to care for Alocasia Amazonica Lighting Alocasia
Amazónica loves light. He prefers well-lit environments but never direct sunlight. Remember that she comes from a tropical forest, where she is protected by the tallest and leafiest trees, so try to keep her in semi-shade. To ensure it grows properly, rotate it from time to time to prevent all the leaves from facing the same direction. This will make it develop evenly and look bushier.
Watering
Alocasisas like to have a moist substrate, but without waterlogging. It is best to water in the morning, so that they dry out during the day and have time to drain the water from the roots. You should water generously in spring, but begin to decrease the frequency and amount of watering around the fall and winter, as these seasons are more prone to excess moisture rotting the rhizome. In these seasons, allow the substrate to dry out between waterings.
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Temperature
The elephant's ear is a tropical plant, so if it is exposed to temperatures that are too low it can die or at best, go into a resting period. It does not receive temperatures below 18°C. In winter it is best to leave it indoors, where it can receive a stable and warm temperature.
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Humidity
Your alocasia requires a moist environment to grow happy, content, and with lots of glossy leaves. For them you can spray the leaves with fresh water a couple of times a week and keep it grouped with other plants, as having it with its green friends will create a bubble of moisture in the area. Another trick is to place it on a plate full of pebbles, where you will put a little water. The goal is for the heat to evaporate the water, without it touching the roots. It is worth recommending that you keep it away from the radiator and/or air conditioning, so that moisture is not stolen.
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Substrate and Fertilizers
This plant is not too picky about the type of substrate you provide it. A mixture of universal organic substrate, with a little peat moss and some sand to facilitate drainage will come in handy. It is important to put a layer of pieces of terracotta, pebbles or similar so that the excess water drains very well from the irrigation.
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As for the fertilizer, you should fertilize it in spring and summer, every 3 weeks. You can use a balanced NPK fertilizer (you can read more about fertilizers in this article). Avoid fertilizing in winter, which is their resting season.
Pruning, Transplanting and Propagation You
never prune your alocasia, you don't need to. Leaves that are yellow, burnt, or deteriorated can be easily removed with a little tug. You can repot your plant every 2 years, if possible by the end of February. When done at the beginning of spring, it will have time to grow and expand in its new pot. Propagation can be done by dividing the rhizome, which is a delicate operation that is best left to the professionals. Pay attention to the possible children that may appear at the base of the plant, because you can transplant them without so much problem.
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What I like most about this plant is that it is very eye-catching, it can become the focal point of any space, but it is not as large or invasive as the Monstera, which will expand as much as they allow. The Alocasia Amazónica has a lot of visual impact, but retains the forms and sobriety. It's an excellent addition to your houseplant collection.