Plant Profile: Alocasia

Scientific Name: Alocasia spp.
Common Names: Elephant Ear, African Mask Plant (varies by variety)
Native to: Tropical Asia and Eastern Australia

Alocasias are striking houseplants known for their dramatic, arrow- or heart-shaped leaves, often marked with bold veins. With their glossy finish and architectural presence, they make a statement in any room. While they can be a little fussy, they reward the attentive plant parent with fast, lush growth and an exotic feel.

🌱 Care Instructions

• Watering: Moderate – Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top few centimetres of soil to dry before watering again. Alocasias dislike soggy roots and may go dormant if overwatered.

• Sunlight: Moderate to Full – Prefers bright, indirect light. Too little light may cause slow growth, while harsh direct sun can scorch delicate leaves.

• Growth: Quick – With the right care, Alocasias grow quickly and can reach up to 1–2 metres tall, depending on the variety.

Extra Tips

• Loves humidity — perfect for bathrooms or paired with a humidifier.

• Fertilise every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

• Alocasias may go dormant in winter; reduce watering until new growth appears in spring.

• Wipe leaves regularly to keep them dust-free and healthy.

• Toxic if ingested, so keep away from pets and children.