Emm's Plant House

Alocasia Silver Dragon 12cm H25cm

£21.00 GBP

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Pot Size 12cm H25cm

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Alocasia Silver Dragon is a striking cultivar of Alocasia, known for its beautiful silver-grey leaves with a unique, dragon-scale-like texture. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Borneo, this variety is admired for its bold, metallic foliage, which features intricate veining and a deep green contrast. The plant’s dramatic leaves and compact growth habit make it a favorite among collectors and anyone looking to add an exotic, bold touch to their indoor plant collection.

Full Botanical Name: Alocasia Silver Dragon
Common Names: Silver Dragon Alocasia
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Borneo and surrounding regions
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in shaded, humid areas of tropical rainforests, thriving in well-draining, organic soils and receiving filtered light through the canopy.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves, while too little light can stunt its growth and reduce leaf vibrancy. 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, 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 Silver Dragon helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene and releasing oxygen during the day.

Folklore: Alocasia species, including Silver Dragon, are often associated with resilience, strength, and good fortune. Their dramatic appearance and exotic charm make them symbols of vitality and prosperity in various cultures.

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