Alocasia care guide in Australia

Native to Asia and Eastern Australia, Alocasia is a tropical rainforest plant with nearly a hundred different species. Alocasia is commonly known as Elephant Ears — a well-suited name for this plant with its massive heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 90cm in length! Alocasia houseplants instantly add a tranquil tropical touch to any indoor space. Some of our favourite Elephant Ears varieties include the Alocasia Polly, Yucatan Princess, Red Secret, Black Velvet and Dragon Scale.

Here is everything you need to know about taking care of your Alocasia plants in Australia!

Temperature & Light

Elephant Ears need warm temperatures and sufficient light to thrive. A warm and humid spot with filtered sun or bright indirect light is the ideal placement for your Alocasia. While most varieties of this plant are suitable for all climatic zones in Australia year-round, it is important to note that they are sensitive to cold weather, sudden temperature changes, and strong winds. To ensure your plants do not suffer from damage caused by the elements, keep them away from open windows and overly exposed window sills. These plants may lose some of their leaves during winter but will bounce right back once the weather warms again.

Soil

Soil is an important consideration in Alocasia care. Use a nutrient-rich, well-drained potting mix to ensure the soil is able to effectively retain moisture, especially in areas with high humidity. The pots must have drainage holes to prevent moisture buildup since this can lead to root rot and fungal diseases. Always place a tray underneath the planter. Lining the bottom of the pot with a material such as peat moss will help manage the flow of water through the soil to maintain optimum moisture levels.

Planting

Elephant Ears are typically grown in pots, although they can also be grown under controlled conditions in a greenhouse. When planting your Alocasia in a pot, make sure the size of the container is generous enough to accommodate healthy growth. Once the plant has outgrown its planter, it should be repotted into a larger pot. Be careful not to plant your Alocasia too deeply in the soil to ensure the root system has sufficient room to develop. Elephant Ears can be propagated quite easily by separating young rhizome cuttings from a well-established plant. Spring or early summer is the best time for Alocasia propagation.

Water

Alocasia houseplants need regular watering but can suffer permanent damage from overwatering. Wait for the top 3-5cm of the soil to dry out in between watering sessions, which should roughly be once a week. As with most indoor plants, Alocasia needs less water during the winter months. Elephant Ears react well to humid conditions. In areas with low humidity, misting your Alocasia plants with water will help increase humidity. Misting your plants will also help to keep them clean. Another way to increase humidity is by grouping indoor plants together or even by investing in a humidifier.

Maintenance

Along with the rest of your houseplants, your Alocasia should be maintained continuously. In the absence of rain and dew, houseplants tend to accumulate dust easily. Alocasia should be cleaned about once a month by gently wiping any dust off the foliage using a damp cloth. Dead stems and leaves should be pruned off with a pair of clean scissors. Ward off pests like mites, scale and mealybugs by keeping humidity levels high. During its growing season in spring and summer, Alocasia can be fertilised monthly with diluted liquid fertiliser. Once the plant reaches maturity, it does not need to be fertilised any longer. Alocasia should be kept out of reach of young children and pets since it is poisonous when ingested.

Spring Colours is a plant nursery located in Sydney’s Dural neighbourhood. With over 30 years of experience in garden landscaping and delivering high-quality plants to plant lovers at great prices, we are committed to making the world a greener place and adding new life to your home and garden.

Contact us to find out about our wholesale service delivery or visit our Nursery in Dural to browse our collection of plants!