Alocasia Longiloba Purple

Alocasia Longiloba Purple is a striking variety of Alocasia, known for its large, deep purple stems and glossy, elongated leaves. It’s a bit of a diva in terms of care, but with the right attention, it can thrive beautifully. Here's a detailed care guide for it:

1. Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light: Alocasia Longiloba Purple thrives in bright, indirect light. If the plant gets too little light, its growth will slow down, and the leaves may lose their vibrant color. Direct sunlight can burn its delicate leaves, so try to place it near a bright window but out of direct sun.

• Avoid low light: Like most Alocasias, this variety does not do well in low-light conditions.

2. Watering

• Keep soil moist but not soggy: Water your Alocasia when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. This helps prevent root rot while ensuring it gets enough moisture.

• Deep watering: Water thoroughly, making sure the excess drains out. Never let the plant sit in water.

• Humidity: This plant loves high humidity (60% or more). In a dry environment, consider misting the leaves, using a humidifier, or placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

3. Temperature

• Warm temperatures: The ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C - 27°C)

4. Soil

• Well-draining, aerated soil: Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. Alocasias prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH soil. A mix with peat, perlite, and orchid bark will provide good drainage and root aeration.

• Avoid soggy soil: Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.

5. Fertilizing

• Fertilize during growing season: From spring to summer, you can feed your Alocasia every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid overfeeding.

• No fertilizing in dormancy: During the fall and winter, Alocasias go dormant, so there’s no need to fertilize. Just reduce watering to keep the soil slightly moist.

6. Repotting

• Repot every 1-2 years: Alocasia Longiloba Purple grows relatively fast, so repotting may be necessary every couple of years or when the plant outgrows its pot. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger than the current one to allow for healthy root growth.