Emm's Plant House

Alocasia melo 7cm H15cm

£15.00 GBP

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Pot Size 7cm H15cm

Quantity

Alocasia melo is an exceptional variety of Alocasia, known for its unique, deeply textured, and velvety green leaves that resemble the appearance of elephant ears. This rare and visually striking species hails from Southeast Asia, where it thrives in humid tropical environments. Alocasia melo's thick, glossy leaves are highlighted by intricate veining, giving it a luxurious and dramatic look. This plant is perfect for collectors and anyone seeking to add a distinctive, bold presence to their indoor plant collection.

Full Botanical Name: Alocasia melo
Common Names: Melo Alocasia, Elephant Ear Plant
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in shaded, humid tropical rainforests where it thrives in well-draining soil and receives filtered light from the forest canopy.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, while too little light can result in leggy growth and reduce the intensity of the leaf's texture and veining. A location with filtered light or near a north or east-facing window is ideal.

Ideal Room: Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or bathrooms with high humidity. It thrives in spaces with bright, indirect light and is perfect for humid areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or conservatories.

Feeding: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when growth slows.

Humidity: Prefers high humidity, typical of its native tropical rainforest habitat. Regular misting, using a humidity tray, or placing the plant in a room with a humidifier will help maintain moisture levels for optimal growth.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to cold drafts and frost.

Watering: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant has good drainage and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid letting the plant sit in water for extended periods.

Pet/Child Safe: Toxic to pets (cats and dogs) and children if ingested, so keep out of reach of animals and young children.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix that retains moisture while allowing excess water to drain away. A mix designed for tropical plants or aroids works well for Alocasia species.

Propagation: Propagate by division. During repotting, carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each division has a healthy root system and replant them in fresh, well-draining soil.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall with a spread of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), forming a bushy, upright growth habit with large, deeply textured leaves.

Growth Rate: Moderate-growing. It produces new leaves regularly during the growing season, but growth may slow down during the fall and winter months when the temperature drops.

Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep the plant healthy.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage to promote healthy root growth.

Pruning: Prune dead or yellowing leaves regularly to maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning can also help control the plant’s size and encourage new growth from the base.

Air Purification: Like many tropical plants, Alocasia melo helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene and releasing oxygen during the day.

Folklore: Alocasia species, including 'Melo', are often associated with vitality, strength, and beauty. Their striking appearance makes them popular symbols of resilience and natural beauty in various cultures.

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