If you’ve kept an alocasia alive as a houseplant in Central Oregon, you’re a superstar. If there was a human embodiment of the alocasia, it would be a Hollywood diva. What we’re trying to say here is that, like the many assistants required by the famous actors, this plant takes a deeply green thumb, maybe two. They have very specific needs that are difficult to fulfill with our famously low humidity in Bend. We’ll do our best to guide you in the right direction, but just know that you’ll need help from a higher power to make this diva happy. 

First, they require very bright, but not direct, light. A south-facing window will work as long as harsh afternoon sun does not touch the leaves for extended periods of time. A south east facing window would be ideal.

Second, being from the tropical regions of Asia, they need consistent moisture, yet are extremely sensitive to watering issues. What a fun combo! High humidity is paramount, so get a misting schedule locked in. Mist it weekly or set up a pebble tray. Maybe you have a steamy bathroom with a bright window. That would be ideal! If you really want to go for gold, buy yourself a humidifier and shoot for 60-80% humidity. It’ll help your skin too! Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks in the summer and every 2-3 weeks in the winter. Alocasias are flippant plants, so really pay attention to the soil. A good tell that they need water is when the first 2 inches of soil are dry. Be intentional about letting the water drain completely out of the bottom of the pot. If there’s accumulation happening, its roots will begin to rot. 

Third, they’re prone to pests like spider mites. Ack! Most of the time these pests show up when there’s not enough humidity and cause browning and leaf drop. If you see your alocasia suddenly decline, put your Sherlock Holmes cap on and investigate your plant for signs of webbing and tiny white dots. Isolate the plant and arm yourself with neem oil or Mite-X and spray the foliage as directed.

Don’t panic if you lose a leaf on your alocasia. Chances are a new one is on the way. Especially when kept as houseplants, alocasias maintain a delicate balance of beauty and substance. Meaning, they can only sustain so many beautiful leaves to remain alive and well. Just trust the process and keep your regimen of pest investigations.

Needless to say, alocasias take work! But they are beloved in the plant world because of their enormous, impressive elephant-shaped ears and bright, prominent veins. There are so many varieties to choose from it can often be a difficult choice so you end up with a few. They are truly spectacular when they’re happy and can easily be the coolest plant in your home. As with most things that take a lot of effort, they can really be worth it!