The Rooted Plant Shop
Alocasia-Mickey Mouse 4”
Alocasia-Mickey Mouse 4”
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Alocasia, commonly known as elephant's ear, is a striking tropical plant that needs warm, humid conditions, and is usually grown as a houseplant. It is prized for its large heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves and the foliage of some varieties has prominent veins or variegation. In the summer, alocasia grows quickly, producing a new leaf every week.
Most Alocasias thrive in bright and indirect light or partial shade outdoors, which prevents their leaves from scorching. The light intensity and length depend on the species or cultivar. Some large varieties tolerate full direct sunlight, and their leaf color tends to be more defined.
Generally, a location in or near a window with an eastern or western exposure offers the filtered light many species require. Some alocasia will tolerate a shadier spot in your home, but the leaf growth might be slower and less impressive.
Plant alocasia in a loose, well-drained potting mix. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Use a standard all-purpose peat-based potting mix or special potting mix for aroids. If necessary, improve the soil drainage by amending the mix with orchid bark or perlite.
Alocasias are water-loving plants but allow the top few inches of soil to become nearly dry before watering. This will help keep the soil evenly moist. Soggy soil makes the plant susceptible to fungal infections and root rot.
They require less water during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Alocasia does not tolerate temperatures below 60°F and requires very humid environments. To raise the humidity around your plant, place it on a pebble tray and add water until it rises to just below the pebble surface. Keep the plant away from cold drafts from windows, doors, and air conditioning.
Especially larger specimens are heavy feeders. During the growing season, use a balanced houseplant fertilizer, such as 20-20-20, either in liquid form diluted to half-strength, once or twice a month, or in granular slow-release form every six weeks to two months. Stop feeding your alocasia during its dormant phase in the winter.
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from 447 reviewsI was surprised with a text from Mel, letting me know my options for selecting my first plant and asking my input about what plant I wanted. I was able to text back what I thought and just a couple days later, a beautiful black velvet Alocasia arrived, thoughtfully wrapped, all snug with a warming pouch. What a fun idea and well executed. I certainly look forward to next month! Thanks for being so informative, as well.
I purchased two varieties of synonyms from the shop. They arrived well-packed and literally not one blemish! It was shocking in the best way. Highly recommend this shop!
I am not one to respond to many emails or surveys but this book resonated with me in a special way today.
Long story short we have been thru a lot of trauma in the last 5 years. Loss in a hurricane, cancer and other surgeries between my husband and I.
A little personal, but relevant, we got in a tiff today because of how many plants I have acquired. I needed his help because I had surgery on Weds. Admittedly I have spent a lot on plants in the last 2 years but your book rang so true for me when you explained how plants support is by creating a calming environment. That whole paragraph spoke volumes to me as to why they are so important to me and my healing journey. Yes I most likely need to slow down in my purchases but even when it’s a chore to water and care for them by the time I am finished there is so much joy and accomplishment. Thank you for helping me make that connection. It helped me in a moment when I needed that clarity and how they impact my every day life.
This book is very well written and the illustration is stunning. I can’t wait to get the next volume! So much appreciated. Thank you
The plant arrived safely and packaged well. She’s perked up nicely in her new home. Thanks for such a great product!
I love this shop and all the knowledge I have gained from Mel! My plants are beautiful that come they’re very well cared for and loved!
Fantastic resource for people new to owning house plants. Very readable and a great basis for the next books to build on.
As always this shop is customer first. Wonderful plant and great shipping
I appreciate all the help you have given to me on transplanting my newly inherited orchids
Thanks so very much
She’s gorgeous!! Arrived quickly and safely!! Adjusted well to her new home immediately!! She is doing wonderfully!! This is definitely my new go to plant shop!! Love Mel and her knowledge and thankful for her passing it along!!!
My first monthly subscription arrived today in perfect shape. Beautifully packaged and a wonderful choice for my collection
My pkg of little pretty babies came all warm and cozy. I live in NYC and they made it safely and secured. Thanks Mel for incredible care and thought you put into your shipping