Emm's Plant House

Alocasia Dragon Breath Ø6cm H10cm

£10.00 GBP

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Pot Size Ø6cm H10cm

Quantity

Alocasia Dragon Breath is an exotic and striking variety of Alocasia, known for its deep, dark green foliage with prominent veins and a dramatic, intense red hue on the undersides of its leaves. The plant’s bold appearance, along with its unique shape and texture, makes it an eye-catching addition to any plant collection. Alocasia Dragon Breath thrives in humid environments and prefers high light, making it a perfect choice for plant enthusiasts looking for something a bit different.

Full Botanical Name: Alocasia Dragon Breath
Common Names: Dragon Breath Alocasia
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly in tropical forests of Malaysia and Indonesia
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in humid, tropical environments with well-draining soil and dappled light, often as an understory plant in the forest

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate some partial shade, its growth and coloration will be best under brighter conditions with indirect sunlight.

Ideal Room: Suitable for living rooms, kitchens, or bathrooms with good light and high humidity. A terrarium or greenhouse is also ideal for this plant.

Feeding: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer to promote healthy leaf growth and vibrant color.

Humidity: Thrives in high humidity levels. Regular misting, a humidity tray, or a room humidifier will help provide the necessary moisture levels for optimal growth.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as this can harm the plant.

Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be sure to maintain consistently moist soil, but never let the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.

Pet/Child Safe: Toxic to pets and children if ingested. Keep out of reach to avoid accidental poisoning due to the plant’s sap and leaves.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining, rich potting mix designed for houseplants. A mix containing peat, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal for ensuring good drainage while maintaining moisture.

Propagation: Propagate by division or by separating the offsets at the base of the plant during repotting. Ensure that each section has some roots before planting them in new soil.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall with a spread of about 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), making it a great medium-sized houseplant.

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast growth rate, especially during the growing season when provided with adequate light, humidity, and care.

Pests and Treatment: Watch for pests like aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent damage to the plant.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage to allow the plant’s roots to grow without becoming waterlogged.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged leaves regularly to maintain the plant’s appearance and to promote new growth. Be careful when handling, as the plant’s leaves can be sharp.

Air Purification: Known for its ability to purify indoor air, Alocasia Dragon Breath helps remove toxins such as formaldehyde, improving the overall air quality in your home.

Folklore: Alocasia plants, often associated with the mythical qualities of dragons, are believed to bring strength and protection. The deep red underside of the leaves symbolizes vitality and power, making it a symbol of good fortune in some cultures.

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