Alocasia cuprea aka Giant Caladium
Taxonomy
Alocasia cuprea is a rare species of plant in the genus Alocasia, native to Borneo, which derives its name from its unusual coppery appearance. It was brought to Europe in the 1850s by Thomas Lobb for Veitch Nurseries, and has since become increasingly popular as a houseplant due to its large, unusual leaves in coppery colors that deepen to green as the leaf matures. Alocasia plants are mostly native to southeast Asia and can grow as large as 24 inches in their natural habitat. While the Jewel Alocasia is suitable for growing indoors, it has stunning colors when in full growth outdoors in tropical areas.
Common names
Giant Caladium, Jewel Alocasia, Red SecretHow to care for Giant Caladium
Difficulty
Giant Caladium requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Giant Caladium should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Giant Caladium 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 Giant Caladium 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 Giant Caladium to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Giant Caladium is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
The Giant Caladium does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.
Fertilizer
The Giant Caladium should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
The Giant Caladium is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.
Region of origin
Giant Caladium’s native range is tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia.
Flower
If you provide your Giant Caladium with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Alocasia Genus
Alocasia mortfontanensis Alocasia Polly Plant
Alocasia longiloba Rare Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia melo
Alocasia macrorrhizos Giant Taro
Alocasia reginae Alocasia Reginae Silver
Alocasia wentii Alocasia Elephant Ears
