Alocasia, commonly known as elephant ears, are a group of tropical plants known for their uniquely shaped, giant leaves. There are around 80 different alocasia varieties, featuring an exciting diversity of leaf shapes, textures, colors and sizes. Here we explore some of the most popular alocasia types in detail.
1. Alocasia Amazonica
The Alocasia Amazonica, also called Alocasia Polly, is arguably the most popular indoor variety. Identifiable by its thick, deep green or silvery-green leaves with sharply contrasting white or yellow veins, this plant makes a wonderful addition to any home.
Leaf Details
- Deep green or silvery-green leaves
- Unique white or yellow leaf veins
- Arrowhead or shield shape
- Reach up to 20 inches long
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Thrives in medium to bright, indirect light
- Likes warm temperatures between 65-80°F
- Keep soil consistently moist but not wet
Fun Fact
This stunner is actually a naturally occurring hybrid between Alocasia longiloba and Alocasia sanderiana, discovered by chance in a Thailand greenhouse years ago.
2. Alocasia Zebrina
If you love statement leaves, the Alocasia Zebrina should top your wish list. Named for its distinctive zebra-like leaf markings, this showstopper has velvety leaves with prominent veins appearing in a contrasting lime green color.
Leaf Details
- Velvety dark green leaves
- Lime green contrasting veins
- Arrowhead shaped leaves
- Reach up to 18 inches long
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Thrives in medium to bright, indirect light
- Appreciates average room humidity
- Likes warm temperatures between 65-85°F
Fun Fact
Like many alocasia varieties, the Alocasia Zebrina originally hails from the rainforests of Southeast Asia.
3. Alocasia Stingray
Living up to its name, the Alocasia Stingray has leaves shaped like the wings of a stingray or the spread cloak of a cobra. These uniquely shaped, textured leaves make this plant a true showstopper.
“Explore the Exceptional 2023 Alocasias Variegata Collection: A Curated Selection of the Rarest and Most Unique Varieties Available.”
Leaf Details
- Lime green leaves with distinct veining
- Jagged wing or cloak shaped
- Velvety texture with slight iridescent sheen
- Reach up to 16 inches long
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Thrives in medium indirect sunlight
- Likes average room humidity
- Appreciates warm temps between 65-80°F
Fun Fact
While most alocasia varieties grow in rainforests, this one is native to the subtropical forests of Asia.
4. Alocasia Cuprea
Just as the name suggests, the Alocasia Cuprea boasts rich coppery almost metallic-looking leaves. Adding to the visual interest are dark green, arrow-shaped leaves with prominent veining against the shimmery copper background.
Leaf Details
- Copper-colored leaves with green veining
- Shiny and smooth leaf texture
- Arrowhead shaped leaves
- Reach up to 20 inches long
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Does best in medium indirect light
- Likes average room humidity
- Appreciates temperatures between 60-80°F
Fun Fact
The Alocasia Cuprea is one of the most distinct looking hybrids, likely a cross between Alocasia Lowii and Alocasia Powellii.
5. Alocasia Silver Dragon
Last but certainly not least on our list of spectacular alocasia varieties is the uniquely colored Alocasia Silver Dragon. It lives up to its mythical name with its broad silvery leaves marked by thick, deep green veins resembling a dragon’s scales. The contrast makes the veining really stand out on this beauty.
Leaf Details
- Silvery leaves with deep green veining
- Broad arrowhead shaped leaves
- Smooth leaf texture
- Reach up to 15 inches long
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Does best in medium to low indirect light
- Likes average humidity
- Appreciates temperatures between 65-80°F
Fun Fact
The Alocasia Silver Dragon is a patented hybrid cultivated by a nursery right here in the US.
Where to buy Alocasia? Benefits from importing plants from Thailand
- Shipping: Door to door shipping, fast and safe with Dragon Courier
- Biodiversity: Thailand is known for its rich biodiversity, including a wide variety of aroid species. This diversity allows importers to access a broad range of unique and exotic aroid plants.
- Quality and Health of Plants: The suitable climate helps the plants grown here stay healthy and of high quality.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Due to favorable growing conditions and efficient production methods, Thai aroid plants can often be more cost-effective compared to those from other countries.
- Access to Hybrid Varieties: Thai growers are often involved in the development of new hybrid aroid varieties, offering unique plants that may not be available from other sources.
Alocasia species are the most sought after by aroid plant lovers
Conclusion
With their uniquely shaped, gorgeously colored leaves in a variety of textures, alocasias make excellent statement plants that are sure to become focal points wherever they’re grown. From the popular Polly and Zebrina varieties to rarer beauties like the Stingray, Cuprea and Silver Dragon, these tropical plants feature exceptional diversity sure to suit any plant lover’s style and growing conditions. Just be sure to give them the warm, humid, indirect light they crave and they will thrive indoors for years to come.
See more 5 Must-Know Tips Before Buying Alocasia Plants – Elevate Your Home
-
by
-
2 thoughts on “Alocasia Varieties”