Emm's Plant House

Alocasia portei Zebra 17cm H60cm

£65.00 GBP

Sale Sold out

Taxes included.

Pot Size 17cm H60cm

Quantity

Alocasia portei 'Zebra' is a captivating and unique cultivar known for its striking, dark green leaves with prominent silver-white veins, resembling the stripes of a zebra. Native to Southeast Asia, this plant is admired for its dramatic foliage and its ability to add a touch of tropical elegance to any space. Its eye-catching leaves, combined with its compact size and upright growth habit, make it an ideal choice for indoor gardeners and collectors looking for a low-maintenance yet striking specimen.

Full Botanical Name: Alocasia portei 'Zebra'
Common Names: Zebra Alocasia
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Southeast Asia
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in shaded areas of tropical rainforests, where it thrives in high humidity, well-draining soil, and filtered light under the dense canopy of trees.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, while too little light can stunt growth and reduce the vibrancy of its foliage. A spot with filtered sunlight or near a north or east-facing window is ideal.

Ideal Room: Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or bathrooms with high humidity. It works well in spaces with bright, indirect light, such as near windows with sheer curtains or in humid areas like bathrooms.

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 be sure to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Ensure that the pot has good drainage to prevent water accumulation.

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 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall with a spread of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), forming a bushy, upright growth habit.

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

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 portei 'Zebra' helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene and releasing oxygen during the day.

Folklore: Alocasia species, including 'Zebra', are often associated with strength, resilience, and protection. Due to their dramatic foliage, they are sometimes considered symbols of vitality and power in various cultures.

View full details