Alocasia Wentii

Common Names

Hardy Elephant Ear

New Guinea Shield

Purple Umbrella

Description

The native origin of Alocasia Wentii links to the tropical mountains of New Guinea. It is an excellent choice as a houseplant and attracts with big shiny leaves of green topsides and purple undersides. The plant loves a humid and warm environment and can grow a length of up to 3 feet.

Care Guide

Light

• Alocasia Wentii grows well in indirect but bright lighting conditions. Avoid putting your plant under direct sunlight as it can result in leaf burn.
• In order to maintain an even growth of all leaves, give a quarter turn to your plant’s pot every day.

Temperature & Humidity

• Alocasia wentii loves an ideal temperature of 16-26 degrees Celsius (60-80 degrees Fahrenheit) for optimal growth.
• It needs a humidity level of 60% to 80% for good survival.

Water

• Keep your Purple umbrella plant well-watered, but never lose a balance between under-watering and over-watering.
• As soon as the uppermost layer of soil gets dry, your plant is ready to get watered. This care will keep low chances of catching soil fungus.
• In winters, reduce the frequency of watering

Soil

• Alocasia Wentii needs a well-draining porous potting mix or indoor houseplant mix. This soil can be improved by adding coco coir, and perlite along with a little quantity of fertilizer.

Toxicity

• Alocasia wentii is toxic, hence keep your children and animals away from the plant

Points to Remember

• Your plant has got soft roots hence avoid over-watering otherwise the plant will catch root rot.
• Drooping or yellow-coloured leaves may indicate low watering or inadequate light.
• Use insecticidal sprays to treat bugs, spiders and mites.
• Lastly, always protect your plant from temperature extremes.