A favorite plant in repeat!

Alocasia loco is a hybrid, or possibly a spontaneous mutation. The plant was introduced back in 2010 by Deroose Plants, but did not have much commercial impact and had largely disappeared from the market by 2019. However, in 2023 it was taken into tissue culture and relaunched for sale.

Botanical description

It is probably a somaclonal mutation (mutation in tissue culture) of Alocasia 'Mandalay', which in turn is a mutation of the popular Alocasia 'Polly' (a cross between A. sanderiana and A. longiloba 'Watsoniana' ).

Care

Light:
Alocasia loco thrives best in partial shade or filtered light. An east or west-facing window is ideal, or a spot a little way into the room from a south-facing window. Direct sunlight can cause faded leaves, while too little light can cause tall, weak growth.

Temperature:
Maintain even heat, avoid temperatures below 20 °C. The plant likes heat but not too high temperatures for long periods. Above about 28 °C can cause stress.

Humidity:
Aim for at least 60% humidity, especially in the winter when indoor air is often dry. Dry air can cause brown leaf edges. A humidifier or moisture tray can help.

Watering:
The soil should be kept slightly moist but never wet. Let the top of the soil dry out between waterings. Adjust watering according to season, location and pot size; in winter the plant often needs less water.

Pot size and soil:
Choose a pot that will hold moisture for a reasonable amount of time, not so small that it dries out in a day, but not so large that the soil becomes waterlogged. Use an airy, well-drained soil mixture, preferably with coconut fiber, perlite and a little bark. Buy Alocasia loco online!