Emm's Plant House

Alocasia Melo Variegata 7cm H15cm

£296.00 GBP

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Pot Size 7cm H15cm

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Alocasia melo ‘Variegata’ is an extremely rare and highly sought-after collector’s jewel Alocasia. It features the famously thick, stone-textured, blue-green leaves of the standard Alocasia melo, now enhanced with striking patches of creamy white, mint, and pale yellow variegation. The contrast between the rugged, almost reptilian leaf surface and the delicate variegation makes this one of the most unique Alocasias in cultivation.

Full Botanical Name: Alocasia melo ‘Variegata’
Common Names: Variegated Alocasia Melo, Variegated Corazon Alocasia
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native species originates from Sabah, Borneo
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Found growing in humid tropical forests on rocky limestone outcrops, with high humidity, warm temperatures, and dappled shade

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Bright, indirect light is essential for maintaining variegation. Avoid low light (variegation may fade) and avoid direct sun (leaves may burn).

Ideal Room: Bathrooms, warm kitchens, greenhouse cabinets, or plant rooms with stable humidity and temperature.

Feeding: Feed lightly every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer using a diluted balanced fertilizer; variegated tissue is sensitive to strong feeds.

Humidity: Requires high humidity (65–85%). Consider a humidifier or enclosure for best results.

Ideal Temperature: 20–28°C. Sensitive to cold; avoid temperatures below 18°C.

Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist, allowing the top 2–3 cm to dry. Overwatering is the most common issue—its thick leaves store moisture, making rot risk higher.

Pet/Child Safe: Toxic (genus level) — contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals which cause intense mouth irritation, swelling, drooling, and vomiting if ingested by pets or humans.

Soil Type: A chunky, mineral-rich, well-draining mix is essential. Use aroid soil with pumice, perlite, orchid bark, and a small amount of coco coir.

Propagation: Rhizome division; variegation may vary between divisions.

Eventual Height and Spread: 25–40 cm tall; 20–35 cm wide.

Growth Rate: Slow; variegation reduces chlorophyll, making growth slower than standard Alocasia melo.

Pests and Treatment: Susceptible to spider mites and thrips due to its thick, textured leaves; treat early with neem oil or a plant-safe systemic insecticide.

Repotting: Every 1–2 years; prefers snug pots. Refresh substrate regularly to prevent compaction.

Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and redirect growth energy.

Air Purification: Moderate; helps slightly improve indoor air quality.

Folklore: Often seen as a symbol of endurance and rarity due to its stone-like leaf texture and naturally occurring variegation.

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