Alocasia micholitziana aka Green Velvet Alocasia

Alocasia micholitziana is an evergreen plant in the arum family, Araceae. It comes from Luzon in the Philippines. Kew places it in the wet tropical climate zone. It is a tender perennial that grows from rhizomes. The plant forms a clump and keeps its leaves year-round. In cool climates, it needs a warm indoor home.

The RHS describes plants about 2.1 feet [0.65 metres] tall. Its listed garden range reaches 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] in height and spread. Plants take two to five years to reach full size. The dark green leaves have a soft, velvet-like surface. White veins stand out against the dark leaf blades. Each leaf has an arrow shape and a wavy edge. The undersides are pale green. Leaves can reach 1.3 feet [0.4 metres] long. Their stalks can reach 1.5 feet [0.45 metres]. Greenish spathes appear from time to time. The foliage provides the main display.

Grow this plant in bright light without direct sun. The RHS recommends peat-free houseplant compost with added perlite. Keep the compost moist, but let excess water drain away. Loam suits it, and it accepts acid, neutral, or alkaline conditions. Water freely from spring through autumn. During that period, give liquid feed every two to three weeks. Cut watering back to a minimum in winter. Provide high humidity with a tray of moist gravel or pebbles. Keep the plant above 15°C. Its RHS hardiness rating is H1A, which calls for year-round growing under glass.

This species suits houseplant collections, warm conservatories, and greenhouses. Its bold leaves also suit a subtropical planting style. It needs no routine pruning. Divide plants in spring or summer to make new ones. Spring stem cuttings offer another way to propagate it. Sow ripe seed promptly and keep it at 23°C. These methods need warmth, as does the mature plant.

The RHS reports few disease problems. Glasshouse red spider mites and mealybugs may still attack it. Check the leaves and stalks for these pests. This is not an edible plant: eating it is toxic. It is also toxic to pets. Contact can irritate the skin and eyes. Wear gloves and other protective gear when handling it.