DIG THIS
Alocasia (also known as Elephant's Ear) is known to have little hidden treasures beneath its soil called corms.
Corms are found attached to the root system, and while the plant needs at least one to stay alive, removing a few won’t harm the plant.
To propagate: gently dig around the roots, detach a baby corm, let it dry for a day, and plant it in soil. A new plant awaits!
Daily Dedication
Indirect Sunlight
Water When Dry
Not Pet Safe
INDIRECT SUNLIGHT
AVOID HARSH, DIRECT SUN
Alocasia can survive in low light, but it won’t be happy about it. If you notice slow growth and leaf drop, try moving it to a brighter spot.
FIND YOUR LIGHT
Take a moment to note which direction the windows face in your space. Then tap around the room below to see how the light hits throughout the day.
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SOUTH-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Highest amount of sunlight ⊹
⊹ Consistent light all day ⊹
⊹ Perfect for "full sun" plants ⊹
EAST-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Soft morning sunlight ⊹
⊹ Avoids harsh afternoon rays ⊹
⊹ Perfect for low to indirect light plants ⊹
⚠︎ May not be bright enough for "full sun" plants
WEST-FACING WINDOW
⊹ Brightest in the afternoon ⊹
⊹ Warm, golden hour glow ⊹
⊹ Great for indirect-sun lovers ⊹
⚠︎ Can overheat sensitive plants
NORTH-FACING WINDOW
⊹ No direct sunlight ⊹
⊹ Avoids harsh afternoon rays ⊹
⊹ Perfect for shade-tolerant plants ⊹
⚠︎ Can be too dim for most houseplants. If this is your only light source, consider using a grow light for your sun-loving plants!
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WATER WHEN DRY
Water Alocasia when the top few inches of soil are dry. If the soil still feels damp, leave it be. Overwatering and soggy soil can lead to root rot. A pot with drainage holes is key.
HIGH HUMIDITY
Consider using a humidifier or a pebble tray to boost humidity levels if your Alocasia is in a drier environment.
SOIL
ALOCASIA DIGS A LIGHT AND AIRY MIX
When choosing a potting mix for this houseplant, look for mixes that include:
PERLITE
PERLITE
Looks like tiny white popcorn bits mixed into the soil. Improves drainage and prevents waterlogging.
ORCHID BARK
Looks like chunky, reddish-brown wood chips. Adds airflow and helps keep soil from getting too dense.
COCO COIR
Looks like fluffy, light brown fibers like shredded coconut husk (what it's made from). Helps hold moisture without making the soil too wet.
COMMON ISSUES
YELLOWING
Yellowing leaves/edges is a possible sign of overwatering. Soil that has been overwatered can lead to root rot.
Remove affected leaves. Dry out soil completely (1-5 days). Adjust your watering schedule for this plant.
If problem persists and/or you suspect root rot: remove from pot, trim away dead mushy roots, and repot in fresh soil.
DROOPING
Buckle up! This could mean anything. With an advanced plant like Alocasia, it is best to troubleshoot for drooping leaves.
⊹ SOIL CHECK ⊹
Soggy: Likely overwatered or poor drainage. Ensure your pot has drainage holes. Allow soil to dry out a bit. Consider mixing in perlite or orchid bark for extra airflow.
Bone dry: Needs a drink and/or a humidity boost. Water thoroughly until water drains from bottom.
⊹ SUN CHECK ⊹
Too little light can make this plant "faint" and go limp. Move it to a brighter window for indirect sun.
BROWNING / CRISPING
⊹ SOIL CHECK ⊹
Bone dry: Needs a drink and/or a humidity boost. Water thoroughly until water drains from bottom. Consider boosting humidity levels with a humidifier or simply placing in a steamy bathroom.
⊹ SUN CHECK ⊹
Too much direct light can cause sun scorch on Alocasia leaves. Make sure to keep it out of harsh afternoon sun.
SNIPPING BROWN TIPS
YELLOW SPOTS/HALOS
Likely a sign of a fungal problem.
Remove affected leaves.
Cut back on humidity and waterings. Only water at the base of the plant, ensuring its leaves do not get wet.
Provide better air circulation by not crowding it with other plants. Keep it in a cool, dry area.
PESTS
Sometimes issues can be the result of a pest infestation. Watch out for these creepy crawlers:
Aphids
Fungus Gnats
Mealybugs
Spider Mites
Thrips
