Alocasia Lauterbachiana

GENERAL INFORMATION

• It is is a genus of broad-leaved rhizomatous or tuberous perennials from the family Araceae.
• There are 79 species native to tropical and subtropical Asia to Eastern Australia and widely cultivated elsewhere.
• Alocasia are tropical plants that are increasingly becoming popular as houseplants.
• They are typically grown as pot plants, but a better way is to grow the plants permanently in the controlled conditions of a greenhouse.
• They do not do well in the dark and need good lighting if inside the house.
• They should be cared for as any other tropical plant with a weekly cleaning of the leaves and frequent fine water misting without leaving the plants wet.
• Also known as Elephant's ear, African Mask, alocasia colorations, leaf patterns, and overall plant size vary greatly by cultivar.

SOIL REQUIREMENT

• Can mix with compost.

FEEDING/FERTILIZER REQUIREMENT

• When the plant's actively growing, boost the soil's fertility by adding some compost, scratching it carefully into the top inch or two of soil without disturbing the plant's roots.
• Feed the plant every two or three weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 formula, diluted at a rate of 1/4 teaspoon per gallon of water.
• Check the product label for further directions.

LIGHT REQUIREMENT

• Protect it from too much sun (which could scorch its leaves) on hot summer days and, by moving the container into a partially shaded area, such as under tall trees.
• Keep an indoor-grown plant in a spot that gets filtered light, such as near a lightly curtained south- or west-facing window.

WATER REQUIREMENT

• Water the soil well.
• Give the plant extra water during the dry season, aiming for at least 1 inch per week, including rain.

REPOTTING SERVICES