Alocasia Black Velvet
Light
This Alocasia will thrive in medium to bright, indirect sunlight. Be aware that they are not suited to low light or direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves.
Water
Keep the soil moist but not wet. Allow top 2" of soil to dry out in between watering. This plant is not drought tolerant and is prone to overwatering. Water less in winter.
Humidity
Enjoys a high humid environment which can be created by frequent misting around the plant, avoid spraying directly on its leaves as this can causes leaves to spot. Alternatively, place it close to other plants or on a pebble tray partly filled with water. Will enjoy being in a kitchen or bathroom.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18-29ºC. Avoid abrupt temperature changes and cold drafts.
Fertiliser
Feed with general houseplant fertiliser monthly during the growing season (spring to summer).
Toxicity
Alocasia Black Velvet is toxic to both people and animals - keep away from small children and pets.
Additional Care Information
Like all Alocasia plants, this one will go dormant in the winter months. Keep humidity high and reduce your watering schedule until the spring, when you should start to see new growth coming through! Apply your first batch of fertiliser in late March to early April. Black Velvets can be propagated by seeds, offsets, or rhizome division.
Troubleshooting
• Yellowing leaves indicates that your Alocasia Black Velvet is not at its ideal temperature or has been overwatered. Prune any affected leaves at the bottom of the stem and re-asses it's location and watering schedule.
• Brown dry edges: The environment isn't humid enough for your plant. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray, regularly misting around your plant or place next to a humidifier.
• Brown tips: Too much fertiliser or under-watering! Re-asses your routine.
To add this species to your indoor jungle collection, you can buy the Alocasia Zebrina here.
• Brown dry edges: The environment isn't humid enough for your plant. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray, regularly misting around your plant or place next to a humidifier.
• Brown tips: Too much fertiliser or under-watering! Re-asses your routine.
To add this species to your indoor jungle collection, you can buy the Alocasia Zebrina here.