Alocasias are a very popular type of plant. There is something very appealing about their large, shiny leaves, which evoke tropical warmth, lush jungle and bountiful nature. They are very hardy and easy to care for, making them ideal for quickly turning your home into a rainforest branch, as they grow a lot in a short time and there are so many varieties. One of the prettiest is the Alocasia Cucullata, which is distinguished by its green leaves with distinct veins and heart shape. With this Alocasia Cucullata care guide you can add it to your collection.
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Interesting facts about Alocasia Cucullata
- Native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia and Eastern Australia. It is a very common plant in Borneo. It belongs to the Araceae family, and you may be familiar with several of its cousins: calla lilies, philodendrons, anthuriums and of course, other alocasias such as the Amazonian.
- In its natural habitat Alocasia Cucullata can reach a height of up to 4 metres, but don't worry that indoors it won't grow that tall, as the pot will contain its power, allowing it to barely exceed 50 cm in height until it reaches a maximum of one metre.
- When over-watered, this alocasia will take up this excess moisture and transpire at the edge of leaves and stems, in the form of slightly thicker droplets. This phenomenon is known as "gouting". Caution should be exercised as this liquid can be irritating to the skin. The gloating is reduced when you stop overwatering the plant.
- This plant loves light, so if it is too far from the sun's rays, its leaves will grow stretching towards the light. Rotate its pot from time to time to keep it balanced.
- Alocasias go through a period of dormancy in winter, when they may lose some leaves. Don't be alarmed, just reduce watering and fertilise when the growing season begins.
- Pay attention to the leaves. If they turn yellow, it is because they lack water. If they turn brown and wilt, it is because it is getting direct sunlight.
- Alocasia Cucullatas are not suitable for homes with curious pets that bite the plants, as they are rather toxic. Keep them out of reach of children and animals.
Care of Alocasia Cucullata
Lighting and temperature
Alocasia Cucullata likes light, but can thrive quite well in semi-shade. The most important thing is that it should not be exposed to direct sunlight, which can burn its leaves, as is the case with plants native to tropical forests.
Because of its natural habitat, this plant prefers high temperatures. Ideally, it should be kept at 18 to 22°C. It should never be kept below 10°C, so it should be kept indoors in winter.
Watering and Humidity
Water this plant often enough to keep the soil moist, but never waterlogged, the key is the frequency rather than the amount of water you put in. Do not allow the substrate to dry out too much. If you overwater it will start to excrete excess water and you will need to reduce watering, but it does not have the risk of root rot.
Alocasia Cucullata requires high humidity levels, so you can put it with other tropical plants to keep it balanced. Some people put it with a Monstera or other Alocasia. You can also place it on a tray with pebbles and water (but don't touch the roots) so that the moisture can be drawn into the plant as it evaporates. Don't forget to spray it with a little water during the week to ensure its happiness.
Substrate and Fertilisation
This plant is not too fussy about the substrate you use. You can use a universal substrate and liquid fertiliser as soon as spring starts and keep the fertiliser cycle going until summer, which is its growing season. This, along with constant and adequate watering, will ensure that your plant grows and acquires lush foliage.
You can transplant every 2 years or when you find it necessary because the roots have overgrown the pot. Remember that the size of the pot will determine the final size of your Alocasia Cucullata, so you can make changes every year if you want it to grow bigger and faster.