Alocasia azlanii aka Red Mambo
Taxonomy
Alocasia azlanii, also known as the Red Mambo, is a rare and exotic houseplant that was first described in 2016 and is native to Brunei. Its foliage is characterized by unique patterns of red to purple coloring along and near its leaf veins. While not a common houseplant due to its recent introduction, it is highly sought after by skilled gardeners due to its preference for partial shade and high humidity levels. Like other Alocasias, it grows from underground corms and contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it important to keep out of reach of children and pets. Although typically only supporting a few leaves at a time, when grown outdoors, Elephant Ears can reach enormous sizes. So, keep an eye out for baby Alocasias during repotting!
Common names
Red Mambo, Jewel Alocasia, Alocasia Azlani, AzlaniiHow to care for Red Mambo
Water
Red Mambo should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Red Mambo loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Red Mambo prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Red Mambo to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Humidity
The Red Mambo is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Red Mambo should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Red Mambo’s native range is tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Alocasia Genus
Alocasia Taro
Alocasia scalprum Alocasia Jacklyn
Alocasia princeps Alocasia Purple Cloak
Alocasia boa Upright Elephant Ear
Alocasia odora Asian Taro
Alocasia cuprea Giant Caladium
Alocasia nebula Alocasia Nebula
Alocasia reginae Alocasia Reginae Silver
Alocasia azlanii Red Mambo
