Alocasia cucullata aka Buddha's Hand
Taxonomy ID: 315
Alocasia cucullata, also known as Chinese Taro, Chinese Ape, Buddha's Hand, or Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear, is a perennial evergreen herb from the Araceae family's genus Alocasia. It's native range is unclear as it's only known from cultivation and from specimens growing near human habitation and in disturbed areas. It's one of the most popular houseplants around, growing to an impressive size of 3.5 feet (1 meter) and sporting thick stems, large, heart-shaped leaves with pointed tips. Alocasias contain calcium oxalate crystals, so keep it away from children and pets. When repotting, keep an eye out for baby Alocasias as they grow out of underground corms similar to bulbs. With enough space to grow, Alocasia cucullata will bring a delightful picturesque view to any home.
Common names
Buddha's Hand, Chinese Taro, Chinese ApeMore information about Buddha's Hand
How difficult is it to take care of Buddha's Hand
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Buddha's Hand is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the region of origin of Buddha's Hand
Buddha's Hand’s native range is tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia.
What are the water needs for Buddha's Hand
Buddha's Hand should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Buddha's Hand
Buddha's Hand 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.
What is the sunlight requirement for Buddha's Hand
To ensure optimal growth, the Buddha's Hand prefers bright indirect 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.
What's the right humidity for Buddha's Hand
The Buddha's Hand does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.
How to fertilize Buddha's Hand
The Buddha's Hand should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Is Buddha's Hand toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
What's the dormancy for Buddha's Hand
During the cold period, it is common for Buddha's Hand to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Alocasia Genus
Alocasia princeps Alocasia Purple Cloak
Alocasia azlanii Red Mambo
Alocasia wentii Alocasia Elephant Ears
Alocasia reginae Alocasia Reginae Silver
Alocasia scalprum Alocasia Jacklyn
Alocasia sanderiana Sander's Alocasia
Alocasia clypeolata Green Sheild
Alocasia nebula Alocasia Nebula
Alocasia mortfontanensis Alocasia Polly Plant
