Green Logs

Plant guide

Alocasia

セローム

Watering rhythm

Every 5–7 days

About this plant

Alocasia is a tropical plant from the Alocasia genus, prized for its large, deep green leaves. Native to Southeast Asia, it's wonderfully shade-tolerant, making it an easy houseplant to grow indoors. It grows at a nice steady pace, which is why it's become such a favorite with beginners.

Placement & environment

Bright indirect light is ideal, but thanks to its shade tolerance, it'll do fine a little way back from the window too. Keep temperatures above 15°C, with 20–28°C being the sweet spot. It loves humidity—aim for somewhere in the 50–70% range.

Seasonal watering rhythm

Light and temperature change a plant's metabolism, so the ideal cadence shifts with the seasons.

Watering rhythm

Water when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Since roots rot easily in prolonged moisture, water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. A light mist on the leaves is wonderful for maintaining humidity and keeping pests at bay.

Common troubles

Quick lookup from symptom to likely cause and action.

SymptomLikely causeWhat to try
Leaves turning yellow and droppingOverwatering has led to root rot—this happens especially often in winter.Hold back on watering until the soil dries out, and improve air circulation. If root rot is severe, a repot may be necessary.
Leaves looking limp and wiltedEither the soil has dried out too much, or humidity has dropped too low.Moisten the soil and mist the whole plant to raise humidity. Recovery usually happens within a few days.
Leaf edges turning brownLow humidity or fertilizer burn are usually to blame.Keep humidity up with regular misting, and go easy on feeding—diluted liquid fertilizer once or twice a month is plenty.
New leaves coming in smallEither not enough light or insufficient nutrients.Move it to a brighter spot and feed with diluted liquid fertilizer regularly during the growing season to see if it perks up.
Tiny bugs visible on the plant or sticky residueCommon pests like mealybugs or scale insects have shown up.Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth, or rinse with water for minor infestations. For serious cases, consider treating with an appropriate pesticide.

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