Alocasia cuprea aka Giant Caladium

Alocasia cuprea, or copper alocasia, belongs to the Araceae family. It comes from Sabah on the island of Borneo. Its native climate is wet and tropical. Kew classes it as a subshrub; RHS describes a tender perennial. This evergreen plant has a bushy form. Gardeners grow it indoors for its large, glossy leaves. It also suits warm conservatories and greenhouses.

The plant reaches about 2.6 feet [0.8 metres] tall. RHS gives a cultivated height range of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metres]. Its spread falls within the same range. It takes two to five years to reach full size. Each oval leaf can reach 2 feet [0.6 metres] long. New leaves have a red flush. With age, their upper sides turn green and copper-bronze. The undersides have a deep red-purple tone. Deep-set veins give the leaf surface a rippled look. The sheen and colour make the foliage its main feature. Pairs of white spathes appear from time to time.

Give this plant bright light filtered through shade, or indirect light. RHS recommends indoor growing in peat-free houseplant compost with added perlite. Keep the mix moist, but let excess water drain away. Water freely from spring through autumn. During this period, apply general liquid feed every two to three weeks. A tray of damp gravel or pebbles helps provide humidity. Cut watering back to a minimum in winter. Keep the plant above 18°C. Its RHS hardiness rating is H1A. In the UK, this means keeping it under glass year-round.

RHS lists acid, neutral and alkaline growing conditions as suitable. Its soil list includes chalk, loam and sand. No routine pruning is needed. Divide plants in spring or summer to make more. Stem cuttings offer another method in spring. These care needs suit a warm indoor space with controlled moisture. The broad, coloured leaves provide interest without relying on regular flowers.

Watch for glasshouse red spider mites and mealybugs. RHS reports that the plant is generally free from disease. It is toxic if eaten and is also toxic to pets. Contact can irritate skin and eyes. Wear gloves and other protective gear when handling it. Treat it as an ornamental plant, not a food crop.