90 Species in Genus Alocasia

My Fascination with Alocasia: A Deep Dive into the Elephant Ear Genus

Hi, I’m Ferb Vu, and I’ve got a confession to make: I’m utterly captivated by Alocasia. These plants, with their dramatic foliage and intriguing personalities, have completely stolen my heart. Maybe you know them as Elephant Ears – a pretty apt name considering their colossal, striking leaves. But there’s so much more to these tropical wonders than just their size. Join me as I delve into the fascinating world of Alocasia.

Why Alocasia?

What is it about these plants that draws me in? Well, it’s their sheer diversity for one. Every species boasts a unique charm, from the deep, velvety hues of the ‘Black Velvet’ to the mesmerizing metallic sheen of the ‘Frydek’. The textures are equally varied – some leaves are smooth as silk, others are corrugated and textured, almost like reptilian skin.

But it’s not just about looks. Caring for Alocasia is like a constant conversation. They communicate their needs through subtle cues – a drooping leaf might signal thirst, while yellowing edges could indicate overwatering. It’s a rewarding challenge to learn their language and provide the optimal environment for them to thrive.

Alocasia: A Diverse Genus

The Alocasia genus belongs to the Araceae family, a group that includes other popular houseplants like Monstera and Philodendron. Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and eastern Australia, there are 90 recognized species of Alocasia, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are:

1. Alocasia acuminata Schott
2. Alocasia aequiloba N.E.Br.
3. Alocasia alba Schott
4. Alocasia arifolia Hallier f.
5. Alocasia atropurpurea Engl.
6. Alocasia augustiana L.Linden & Rodigas
7. Alocasia azlanii K.M.Wong & P.C.Boyce
8. Alocasia baginda Kurniawan & P.C.Boyce
9. Alocasia balgooyi A.Hay
10. Alocasia beccarii Engl.
11. Alocasia boa A.Hay
12. Alocasia boyceana A.Hay
13. Alocasia brancifolia (Schott) A.Hay
14. Alocasia brisbanensis (F.M.Bailey) Domin
15. Alocasia cadieri Chantrier
16. Alocasia celebica Engl. ex Koord.
17. Alocasia chaii P.C.Boyce
18. Alocasia clypeolata A.Hay
19. Alocasia cucullata (Lour.) G.Don
20. Alocasia culionensis Engl.
21. Alocasia cuprea (K.Koch & C.D.Bouché) K.Koch
22. Alocasia decipiens Schott
23. Alocasia decumbens Buchet
24. Alocasia devansayana (L.Linden & Rodigas) Engl.
25. Alocasia epilithica Serebryanyi, K.Z.Hein & Naive
26. Alocasia evrardii Gagnep. ex V.D.Nguyen
27. Alocasia fallax Schott
28. Alocasia farisii Zulhazman, Norziel. & P.C.Boyce
29. Alocasia flabellifera A.Hay
30. Alocasia flemingiana Yuzammi & A.Hay
31. Alocasia fornicata (Kunth) Schott
32. Alocasia grata Prain ex Engl. & Krause
33. Alocasia hainanica N.E.Br.
34. Alocasia hararganjensis H.Ara & M.A.Hassan
35. Alocasia heterophylla (C.Presl) Merr.
36. Alocasia hollrungii Engl.
37. Alocasia hypoleuca P.C.Boyce
38. Alocasia indica (Lour.) Spach
39. Alocasia infernalis P.C.Boyce
40. Alocasia inornata Hallier f.
41. Alocasia jiewhoei V.D.Nguyen
42. Alocasia kerinciensis A.Hay
43. Alocasia lancifolia Engl.
44. Alocasia lauterbachiana (Engl.) A.Hay
45. Alocasia lecomtei Engl.
46. Alocasia longiloba Miq.
47. Alocasia macrorrhizos (L.) G.Don
48. Alocasia maquilingensis Merr.
49. Alocasia megawatiae Yuzammi & A.Hay
50. Alocasia melo A.Hay, P.C.Boyce & K.M.Wong
51. Alocasia micholitziana Sander
52. Alocasia minuscula A.Hay
53. Alocasia monticola A.Hay
54. Alocasia navicularis (K.Koch & C.D.Bouché) K.Koch & C.D.Bouché
55. Alocasia nebula A.Hay
56. Alocasia nicolsonii A.Hay
57. Alocasia nycteris Medecilo, G.C.Yao & Madulid
58. Alocasia odora (G.Lodd.) Spach
59. Alocasia × okinawensis Tawada
60. Alocasia pangeran A.Hay
61. Alocasia peltata M.Hotta
62. Alocasia perakensis Hemsl.
63. Alocasia portei Schott
64. Alocasia princeps W.Bull
65. Alocasia principiculus A.Hay
66. Alocasia puber (Hassk.) Schott
67. Alocasia puncakborneensis S.Y.Wong & P.C.Boyce
68. Alocasia puteri A.Hay
69. Alocasia pyrospatha A.Hay
70. Alocasia ramosii A.Hay
71. Alocasia reginae N.E.Br.
72. Alocasia reginula A.Hay
73. Alocasia reversa N.E.Br.
74. Alocasia ridleyi A.Hay
75. Alocasia robusta M.Hotta
76. Alocasia salarkhanii H.Ara & M.A.Hassan
77. Alocasia sanderiana W.Bull
78. Alocasia sarawakensis M.Hotta
79. Alocasia scabriuscula N.E.Br.
80. Alocasia scalprum A.Hay
81. Alocasia simonsiana A.Hay
82. Alocasia sinuata N.E.Br.
83. Alocasia suhirmaniana Yuzammi & A.Hay
84. Alocasia tandurusa Pram. & A.Hay
85. Alocasia venusta A.Hay
86. Alocasia vietnamensis V.D.Nguyen & de Kok
87. Alocasia wentii Engl. & K.Krause
88. Alocasia wongii A.Hay
89. Alocasia yunqiana Z.X.Ma, Yifan Li & J.T.Yin
90. Alocasia zebrina G.W.Johnson & R.Hogg

Caring for your Alocasia

Alocasia may have a reputation for being a bit dramatic, but providing the right care can go a long way in keeping them happy. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Light: Alocasia generally prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves.
• Water: Consistent moisture is key, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering again.
• Humidity: As tropical plants, Alocasia thrive in humid environments. Consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plant to increase humidity levels.
• Soil: A well-draining potting mix is crucial. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and coco coir works well.
• Temperature: Alocasia prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C).

Remember, each Alocasia species has its own preferences, so it’s always a good idea to research the specific needs of your plant.

The Joys of Alocasia Parenthood

Growing Alocasia isn’t always a walk in the park. They can be susceptible to pests, prone to dramatic displays of displeasure (like leaf dropping), and require a bit more attention than your average houseplant. But for me, the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about nurturing these plants and watching them unfurl new leaves. Each new leaf is like a work of art, a testament to the care and attention you’ve provided. And when your Alocasia rewards you with a new leaf that’s bigger and more vibrant than the last, it’s a feeling of pure joy.

So, if you’re looking for a plant that’s both beautiful and challenging, I highly recommend giving Alocasia a try. With a little patience and care, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning addition to your home and a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the plant kingdom.