Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata, the most exotic elephant ear

Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata

Surely you know the Alocasia macrorrhiza. However, Have you ever seen this alocasia with green leaves with white spots? It is the Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata and it is one of the collection plants that most people seek for their home.

So we are going to tell you all the characteristics that you find in this plant as well as the care that you must provide so that it does not lose its variegation and even gives you completely white leaves. Would you like to know more?

How is the Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata

Toxic indoor plant for children and pets

Let’s start by talking about Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata. It is an evergreen plant, also called “Elephant Ear” because its leaves reach a considerable size. It is native to the South Pacific and can reach 3-4 meters in height, and between 1-3 meters in width.

The most characteristic of this variegated plant are its leaves, which have a creamy green color combined with a white variegation. This is what stands out the most about the plant, and what makes it one of the most demanded.

Of course, its variegation is not always perfect. There are times when the leaves will come out with little white, and others when they can come out completely white. It depends above all on the genetics of the plant, but also on the care you provide to the plant. In fact, if it gets a lot of light and you take very good care of it, it is common for the plant to give you whole white leaves because it has enough light and photosynthesizes with the other leaves. Yes, the white leaves are not useful for photosynthesis, hence the need for green parts.

Regarding the size and pattern of the leaves, this is very similar to that of the rest of the Alocasias macrorrhiza. With respect to its shape, the leaves have a spear or blade-like silhouette, with wavy white veins that come out of several rigid stems, usually green, although sometimes they can be variegated (from where the leaf gets variegation). .

Another point that you should know about Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata are its flowers. Although it is not usual for it to flower indoors, it may be the case. This is usually a green spathe stem that, over time, changes to a pale yellow.

The flowers are very aromatic and those who have had the opportunity to see them, and smell them, have been very impressed. Although we already tell you that they have no comparison with variegated leaves.

Is Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata toxic?

As with Alocasia macrorrhiza, the variegated version is toxic to pets and children. That is why it is recommended to place it in an area where they cannot access it.

If by accident they bite the leaves or eat them, you should know that they can suffer irritations, sore throats, etc. If the intake has been too much, it is essential to go to the doctor (or the veterinarian) for a treatment.

Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata care

leaf of macrorrhiza variegata

After knowing a little more in depth what Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata is like, Would you dare to have one at home? If so, here we leave you what are the most important care that you should provide for it to be healthy.

location and temperature

We start with the most suitable location for this plant. In this case, due to the delicacy of the leaves, it is not recommended that they be in direct sun because they can easily burn. So it is better to place it in semi-shade so that it has light but not directly.

That said, you should know that you can put it both inside the house and outside. As long as temperatures don’t drop below 10 degrees Celsius (since, if it does, the plant will suffer). Its ideal temperature is between 18 and 24 degrees. If this is higher, or lower, it is possible that the plant stops its growth, and there you can have one of the reasons why it does not grow.

Substratum

Another important care for Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata is the land to use. It is important that you provide a soil that has a pH between 5.6 and 7. In addition, it should be land that stays moist, so you can use earthworm humus and universal substrate. But do not forget to put some drainage so that there are no accumulations of water.

Irrigation

Regarding the above, you will have noticed that the Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata needs to be watered often so that the soil is moist. But if you go too far you can easily lose it. So try to water only when the soil is dry.

In summer you may have to water it 2-3 times a week while in winter once a week is more than enough. Of course, everything will depend on the weatherwhere you are and the temperature you have.

Related to water, you should know that It is a plant that needs humidity. Specifically, between 60 and 80%. For this reason, it is convenient that you put it near a humidifier or a plate with pebbles and water to maintain that humidity.

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Details of the green leaf with white spots

During the spring and summer months you will have to apply a fertilizer to meet your growth needs. It is good to take it once a month, but in a lower dose than what the container puts (to avoid going overboard).

During the winter it is not necessary, since the plant becomes dormant.

pruning

Pruning should be seen as a way to clean the plant and help it grow. But actually It is only to remove the leaves that are damageddead or with black or yellow spots.

Plagues and diseases

Although Alocasia macrorrhiza is good at fighting pests and diseases, the variegated version is more delicate with these And you have to be aware so that fungi do not affect it (due to root rot), as well as mealybugs and mites.

In case you see the latter, the best remedy is to wash the plant with soap and water.

As you can see, Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata is a plant that anyone who likes variegated plants will love to have in their collection. And it is not as difficult to care for as others. Would you dare to have it in your house?

Alocasia macrorrhiza variegata, the most exotic elephant ear

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