Emm's Plant House

Alocasia Ninja 6cm H10cm

£11.00 GBP

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Pot Size 6cm H10cm

Quantity

Alocasia Ninja is a striking cultivar of Alocasia, known for its dramatic, dark foliage with a unique, almost black appearance. The glossy, arrow-shaped leaves have deep green veins, which give the plant a bold and mysterious look. Native to Southeast Asia, this variety thrives in tropical environments and adds a touch of elegance and intrigue to any space. Its compact size and distinctive leaf pattern make it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts of exotic plants.

Full Botanical Name: Alocasia Ninja
Common Names: Ninja Alocasia
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly the tropical regions of Borneo and surrounding areas
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in shaded, humid environments of tropical rainforests, thriving in well-draining, organic soils and receiving filtered light under 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 stunt its growth and reduce its distinctive leaf color. A spot 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 works well in humid areas like bathrooms or conservatories.

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

Humidity: Prefers high humidity, typical of its native 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 that 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 striking, dark, arrow-shaped 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 Ninja helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene and releasing oxygen during the day.

Folklore: Alocasia species, including Ninja, are often associated with strength, resilience, and protection due to their striking appearance. In various cultures, these plants are believed to symbolize vitality, prosperity, and good fortune.

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