Archive for the ‘ears’ tag
African mask aka Elephant ears ( Alocasia amazonica )
alocasia amazonica
alocasia amazonica
I think this is my favorite of all the alocasias. It is certainly the most dramatic looking. Leaves can reach 2′ long and it will bloom indoors when happy.
High humidity is the key for this plant to do well. If you are in a cold climate and the heat is on, or in a dry climate you need to supply it with humidity. A dish filled with gravel and water underneath works well.
In the house it should be happy in just about any window. Some people report it gets sunburned in southern exposures, others swear it loves the sun. Try and see what works for you. Do keep it from cold drafts. It does not like the cold.
Keep the soil moist. Many people treat this like an african violet. Sit it in a dish of gravel and water and let it soak up water as it wants from the gravel dish. Keep an eye on it however, some plants will rot if kept this way especially if they are not in a sunny location.
I find the water tray works for mine. I keep it in a shaded east exposure.
It has been known to suddenly drop all its leaves. Not to worry, new leaves usually appear almost immediately.
Keep an eye out for spider mites they like this plant.
