Alocasia zebrina
A tough, rhizomatous perennial houseplant with dark green, glossy arrow-shaped foliage and a black and white striped stem. This plant will often drop leaves which is perfectly normal as it makes way for fresh new ones.
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Black White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Black White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Black White | Green | ||
| Winter | Black White | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1ABotanical details
- Family
- Araceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- TOXIC if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Alocasia are robust evergreen rhizomatous or tuberous perennials with large, usually peltate, leaves with conspicuous veins; insignificant flowering spathes may be followed by orange-red fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Philippines
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow indoors in a peat-free houseplant compost with added perlite, in bright, indirect light. Water freely and apply a general liquid fertiliser every 2-3 weeks from spring to autumn. Provide high humidity by placing the container on a tray of moist gravel or pebbles. Reduce watering to a minimum in winter, and keep above 15°C. See Alocasia for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 23°C (73°F) as soon as ripe. Propagate by division in spring or summer. Propagate by stem cuttings in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.