82 Different Types of Alocasia: Exploring the Diversity of Shapes & Sizes
If you’re seeking a distinctive addition to your houseplant collection, Alocasia plants present a captivating array of choices.
From the enigmatic allure of the Black Velvet to the intricately detailed and attention-grabbing Dragon Scales, different types of Alocasia varieties are well-suited for any home.
This article looks into 82 Alocasia types suitable for indoor cultivation, providing insights into their unique care requirements and features.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced plant enthusiast, this article serves as a guide to assist you in selecting the perfect Alocasia plant, adding a touch of tropical flair to your home.
What are the Different Types of Alocasia?
Here I described the different Alocasia types briefly.
Alocasia Acuminata
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Acuminata | Thailand, Northeast India, Assam, Nepal, Bangladesh, North Burma, North Laos, North Vietnam, Southwest China | Small to Medium-sized |
Alocasia acuminata is a small to medium-sized, slightly robust, and evergreen plant that reaches a height of 75 cm (29.5 inches).
Its rhizomatous stems start off long and erect, later becoming decumbent, measuring approximately 8 to 75 cm (3 to 30 inches) in length and 2 to 6 cm (1 to 2.5 inches) in width.
The older parts of the stems are covered with remnants of old leaf bases and cataphylls. The plant features five leaves, subtended by a noticeable lanceolate papery-membranous cataphyll.
This species is distributed in Thailand, Northeast India, Assam, Nepal, Bangladesh, North Burma, North Laos, North Vietnam, and Southwest China.
It thrives in moist areas within dry evergreen forests and occasionally on limestone and granite, with an altitude range of 650 to 1,175 meters (2,132 to 3,855 feet).
Despite its similarities to Alocasia longiloba, Alocasia acuminata can be easily distinguished by its unlobed or barely lobed stigma, vibrant green leaf laminae, plain green petioles and cataphylls, and the characteristic of always having multiple leaves simultaneously.
Alocasia Aequiloba
Alocasia Aequiloba is a petite to moderately robust herb characterized by a decumbent to creeping stem, occasionally erect, with a diameter of up to 4 cm (1.5 in), typically smaller and brown.
The younger sections are enveloped in old leaf bases and persistent cataphylls of proleptic renewal axes, often producing one to several leaves.
The leaf size varies significantly, ranging from spearhead-shaped to arrowhead-shaped, occasionally exhibiting faintly undulated margins.
The upper side of the leaf blades is dark green and glossy, while the underside is pale and dull, sometimes adorned with yellow or white dots.
The leaves are leathery, enduring, and frequently adorned with epiphyllous bryophytes and lichens.
This species, synonymous with Alocasia angustiloba, Alocasia dahlii, Alocasia denudatoides, Alocasia gjellerupii, Alocasia magnifica, Alocasia peekelii, and Alocasia schlechteri, is native to Northern and Eastern New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago. It thrives in lowland rainforest and swamp forest floors and regrowth areas.
Alocasia aequiloba distinguishes itself from other Australasian Alocasia species by the longevity of its leaves, many of which support epiphyllous growth.
Unlike several species with leaves that senesce after a few months, Alocasia aequiloba’s leaves endure, fostering the growth of epiphyllous plants.
Some naturally occurring individuals within regular populations display variegation. The horticultural market now offers cultivars like ‘Spotted Papua’ and ‘Gold Dust’ derived from this species.
Alocasia Aequiloba ‘Gold Dust’
Alocasia aequiloba ‘Gold Dust’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia aequiloba, distinguished by irregular gold spots on its leaves.
Alocasia Alba
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Alba | Indonesia (Java, Lesser Sunda Islands, Sumatra, Bali, Lombok) | Sturdy Pachycaul Herb |
Alocasia alba is a sturdy pachycaul herb that can reach a height of 2 m (6.6 ft). Each plant typically bears multiple leaves, with upper leaves displaying a green hue and lower leaves appearing lighter and yellowish green.
The leaf blades are oblong to arrowhead-shaped, and notably, they are not peltate.
This species shares a synonymous status with Alocasia bantamensis, Alocasia crassifolia, Alocasia pallida, Colocasia alba, and Homalomena alba. It is native to Indonesia, specifically in Java, Lesser Sunda Islands, Sumatra, Bali, and Lombok.
Alocasia alba thrives in various environments, including shady or open areas of forests, along roads and fields, on sandy or stony soil in river banks, on well-drained soils, and in lowland open areas.
Distinctive features of this species include:
- Non-peltate leaves.
- Prominent secondary veins on the abaxial side of the leaves.
- Well-defined inter-primary collective veins.
- Glabrous lower leaf surfaces to petioles.
- Green spathes with a constriction leveled to sterile interstices.
Alocasia Alba Silver
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Alba Silver | Cultivated variety of Alocasia Alba in different parts of the world | Cultivated |
Alocasia alba ‘Silver’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia alba, featuring leaves with a whitish-silvery hue, in contrast to the solid green coloration of the typical Alocasia alba species.
Alocasia Albutan
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Albutan | Hybrid of Alocasia Alba and Alocasia Reginae | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Albatuwan’ is a hybrid resulting from the crossbreeding of Alocasia alba and Alocasia reginae. Wawan, the hybridizer, conducted this breeding at the Chong Lee Nursery in Malaysia, where he was employed from 2001 to 2016.
While in Kalimantan, Wawan obtained a plant he initially labeled Alocasia ‘Batu,’ later identified as Alocasia reginae.
He hybridized it with Alocasia alba, giving rise to the hybrid named ‘Albatuwan’—derived from Alba, Batu, and Wan (Wan being a part of Wawan’s name).
This hybrid is more prevalent in Malaysia, with less frequent exportation to Thailand and Indonesia.
Alocasia ‘Amazonica’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Amazonica’ | Hybrid of Alocasia Sanderiana and Alocasia Longiloba ‘Watsoniana’ | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Amazonica’ is a hybrid resulting from the crossbreeding of Alocasia sanderiana and Alocasia longiloba ‘Watsoniana,’ a creation by Salvadore Mauro at the Amazon Nurseries.
Despite its name suggesting an Amazonian origin, it’s important to note that Alocasia is an Asian genus, and ‘Amazonica’ does not naturally occur in the Amazon jungle or region.
There often needs to be more clarity among buyers and sellers between Alocasia ‘Amazonica’ and Alocasia ‘Polly,’ the latter being a smaller mutation of Alocasia ‘Amazonica.’ Alocasia ‘Polly’ was developed by Denis and Bill Rotolante at Silver Krome Gardens in Homestead, Florida.
Alocasia Arifolia
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Arifolia | Sumatra, Indonesia | Petite to Medium-sized |
Alocasia arifolia reaches a height of up to 70 cm (28 in). The stem, which can be erect or decumbent, measures about 30 cm (12 in) in length and 2-4 cm (1-1.5 in) in diameter.
Typically, it bears multiple leaves, each approximately 30 cm (12 in) long. The blade shapes range from arrowhead to spearhead, exhibiting a glossy mid/dark green color and a membranous to thinly leathery texture.
Indigenous to Sumatra, Indonesia, Alocasia arifolia thrives in low montane forests between 400 and 1,300 meters (1,312 to 4,265 feet) above sea level. It commonly grows near streams, although it is not inherently rheophilic.
Alocasia Atropurpurea
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Atropurpurea | Northern Luzon, Philippines | Moderately Robust |
Alocasia atropurpurea is a moderately robust herb characterized by membranous leaf blades resembling a shape between an egg and an arrowhead, measuring around 40 cm (16 in) in length, and possessing a very shallow peltate structure.
The anterior costa on each side features four primary lateral veins. In contrast, secondary veins emerge from the primary veins, occasionally reaching the margin and rarely forming inter-primary collective veins.
Indigenous to Northern Luzon, Philippines, Alocasia atropurpurea thrives in limestone-rich environments, particularly in open roadside habitats within expansive karst landscapes.
Alocasia ‘Aurora’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Aurora’ | Unidentified parentage | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Aurora’ is a naturally occurring hybrid with unidentified parentage.
Originally acquired at the Bangkok Flower Market and later brought to the US, it served as the progenitor for the entire Safari Series.
Despite its initial struggles in the US when introduced in the early 2000s, the original Alocasia ‘Aurora’ has gained considerable popularity in Europe under the name Alocasia ‘Pink Dragon.’
Alocasia Azlanii
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Azlanii | Borneo island | Petite |
Alocasia azlanii is a petite herb, reaching a height of 10 to 28 cm (4 to 11 in). The slender stems, measuring only 8–10 mm (less than half an inch) wide, have internodes nearly as wide as their length.
The plant features multiple leaves and lanceolate cataphylls about 6 cm (2.5 in) long.
The leaf blades, presenting a broad ovate-elliptic shape, measure 16–20 cm (6-8 in) in length and 8.5–11 cm (3-4 in) in width. They exhibit a dark coppery purplish green upper surface and a pale green lower surface, with a thinly leathery texture.
The blades are spreading to sub-pendent, with broad sinuating margins. Both surfaces showcase prominent primary lateral veins, and secondary veins converge to form inter-primary collective veins.
Indigenous to Borneo island, Alocasia azlanii thrives in well-shaded, moist ground above flood level along the banks of a shallow tributary of the Benutan River, which drains mixed dipterocarp forest on sandy clays.
Resembling Alocasia beccarii and Alocasia peltata with small herbs featuring peltate glabrous leaves, Alocasia azlanii stands out due to the conspicuous intramarginal and marginal veins on its leaf blades, unlike Alocasia beccarii, which only has a clear marginal vein.
Two primary distinctions set Alocasia azlanii apart from Alocasia peltata.
- The inter-primary collective veins in the leaf anterior lobe are formed by confluent secondary veins (Alocasia peltata lacks confluent secondary veins).
- The staminate zone of its spadix is only partially within the lower spathe chamber, while the staminate zone of Alocasia peltata entirely resides within the lower spathe chamber.
Alocasia Baginda
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Baginda | Borneo island | Compact |
Alocasia baginda, despite its compact size, is a sturdy terrestrial herb reaching heights of 25-30 cm (10-12 in). Initially, its stem is briefly erect and transforms into a short, decumbent rhizome as it ages.
Typically, the plant bears four spreading leaves with petioles measuring 13 to 23 cm (5 to 9 in) in length. The lower 1⁄6–1⁄7 of the petioles are short sheathing, glabrous, and pale green, adorned with white speckles at the base.
The leaf blades of Alocasia baginda are very broadly egg-shaped to approximately circular, peltate, ranging from 10 to 18 cm (4-7 in) in length and 7 to 12 cm (3-5 in) in width.
These blades are stiffly and thickly leathery, presenting a matte dark green color with pale gray bullate portions defined by the primary and marginal veins.
Indigenous to Borneo island, Alocasia baginda shares a close relation with Alocasia melo, identified by its stiff, thick leathery leaves that are almost perfectly furrowed.
However, Alocasia baginda is easily distinguishable by its smooth leaves, which are not fine and very wrinkled, featuring dark green portions contrasting with disparate pale gray bumps.
Although the inflorescences of both species bear a slight resemblance, the key difference lies in the constriction of the spathe.
In Alocasia baginda, the constriction occurs around the middle part of the staminate flower zone, while in Alocasia melo, it is in the apical part.
Alocasia Baginda ‘Dragon Scale’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ | Cultivated variety of Alocasia Baginda | Cultivated |
Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale’ is a cultivated variety derived from Alocasia baginda, distinguished by its darker, entirely green leaf surfaces in contrast to the subdued appearance of the typical Alocasia baginda species.
Alocasia Baginda ‘Green Dragon’
| Alocasia Baginda ‘Green Dragon’ | Cultivated variety of Alocasia Baginda | Cultivated |
Alocasia baginda ‘Green Dragon’ is a cultivated variety from Alocasia baginda, showcasing lighter silvery feathering patterns on the upper leaf surfaces akin to the typical Alocasia baginda species.
Additionally, it features a deeper green leaf surface reminiscent of Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale.’
Alocasia Baginda ‘Silver Dragon’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Baginda ‘Silver Dragon’ | Cultivated variation of Alocasia Baginda | Cultivated |
Alocasia baginda ‘Silver Dragon’ is a cultivated variation of Alocasia baginda, characterized by silver interveinal coloration on the upper leaf surfaces, with the intensity varying based on available light levels.
The cultivar retains the dark green vein coloration reminiscent of Alocasia baginda ‘Dragon Scale.’
Alocasia Balgooyi
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Balgooyi | Sulawesi, Indonesia | Robust and Sizable |
Alocasia balgooyi is a robust and sizable herb that can reach heights of 1-3 m (3-10 ft). The rhizome is substantial and thick, covered with remnants of fibrous leaf bases.
It produces a few leaves, varying in shape from an egg to an arrowhead or, at times, between a heart and an arrow. The membranous leaves measure 50-100 cm (20-39 in) in length.
Indigenous to Sulawesi, Indonesia, Alocasia balgooyi, much like Alocasia melo, thrives in ultramafic substrates.
It is commonly found in low to mid-elevation forests, occasionally in swamp forests, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas, from sea level to 1,200 m (3,937 ft).
Distinguishing itself from Alocasia macrorrhizos, Alocasia balgooyi features rear ribs that are not or hardly bare, a shorter leathery blade of the spathe, female inflorescence and interstice neither longer nor thinner, smaller synandria, and a red fruiting spathe.
Alocasia ‘Bambino Arrow’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Bambino Arrow’ | Netherlands | Cultivar |
Alocasia ‘Bambino Arrow’ is a cultivar originating from the Netherlands, introduced around 2008. It is likely another cross or mutation of Alocasia longiloba.
Alocasia Beccarii
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Beccarii | Borneo island | Petite |
Alocasia beccarii is a petite herb, reaching a height of 12 to 28 cm (5-11 in). Its slender stem, with a diameter of 5-10 mm (1⁄5- 2⁄5 in), features condensed internodes that are typically wider than long.
The plant produces several irregularly spaced leaves, often accompanied by lanceolate cataphylls up to 5 cm (2 in) long that dry to a red-brown hue.
These leaves are narrowly elliptic to egg-shaped to narrowly teardrop-shaped, mid-green on the upper side, pale below, leathery, and can grow up to 18 cm (7 in) in length and 6 cm (2 in) in width.
Indigenous to Borneo island, Alocasia beccarii thrives on slopes at low elevations, frequently nestled among boulders and commonly growing over sandstone.
Alocasia Boa
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Boa | New Guinea | Moderate Robustness |
Alocasia boa exhibits moderate robustness and attains a height of approximately 1 m (3 ft).
The rhizome is erect to decumbent, devoid of foliage, and characterized by a dark brown color, reaching lengths of up to 1.5 m (5 ft) and widths of 4 cm (1.5 in).
With the capacity to produce up to six leaves, the plant features arrowhead-shaped blades that are shallowly pinnatifid, with lobes of roughly equal width and a somewhat serrated margin.
The leaf blade is distinguished by a single primary vein extending to a narrowly rounded tip.
Indigenous to New Guinea, Alocasia boa thrives in its natural habitat.
Alocasia Boyceana
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Boyceana | Philippines | Moderate robustness |
Alocasia boyceana is a herb of moderate robustness, typically attaining heights of around 60 cm (24 in), with a stem diameter of approximately 2 cm (1 in).
It produces a limited number of leaves, usually ranging from 1 to 3, often accompanied by cataphylls. The blade configuration is narrowly arrowhead-shaped to slightly spearhead-shaped, reaching lengths of about 35 cm (14 in).
Indigenous to the Philippines, Alocasia boyceana thrives in the rainforest at low to medium elevations, and it is occasionally found in limestone-rich environments.
Alocasia boyceana is frequently mistaken for Alocasia heterophylla. Like Alocasia ramosii, its leaves lack a peltate structure, featuring 5-7 primary veins and the sub-marginal veining closely aligns with the leaf edges.
Alocasia Brancifolia
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Brancifolia | New Guinea, Maluku Islands, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia | Treelet |
Alocasia brancifolia, a treelet with erect brown stems, reaches a height of 1.2 meters (4 feet) and boasts a diameter of 7 cm (3 in), supporting six leaves.
The petioles, extending up to about 40 cm (16 in) in length, display a spectrum from green to faint mottling to bold zebra-striping in chocolate brown, with sheathing in the lower third to half of their length. The leaf blades are distinctly arrowhead-shaped in outline.
This plant shares synonymy with Alocasia angustiloba, Alocasia dahlii, Alocasia denudatoides, Alocasia gjellerupii, Alocasia magnifica, Alocasia peekelii, Alocasia schlechteri,
Alocasia acuta, Alocasia acuta var. angustipartita, Alocasia acuta var. tigrina, Arum fasciculatum, Schizocasia acuta, Schizocasia acuta var. angustipartita, Schizocasia acuta var. tigrina, and Xenophya brancaefolia.
Indigenous to the New Guinea and Maluku (Mollucas) Islands of Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, Alocasia brancifolia thrives in the understorey of lowland forests, typically in rather swampy locations and occasionally in open sites.
Alocasia Brisbanensis
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia Brisbanensis | Queensland and New South Wales, Australia | Expansive Herb |
Alocasia brisbanensis is an expansive herb with a decumbent to erect stem, approximately 13 cm (5 in) wide, adorned with old leaf bases.
The plant produces several arrowhead-shaped to somewhat egg-shaped, membranous leaves, exhibiting a pale to mid-green hue and possessing entire margins.
Synonymous with Alocasia macrorrhizos var. brisbanensis, Caladium macrorrhizon, Colocasia macrorrhizos, and Caladium glycyrrhizon, this species is native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia.
It thrives in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate rainforests and wet open sites, predominantly at low altitudes, typically on pleiotropic soils.v
Alocasia Cadieri
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia cadieri | Central Vietnam | Herb |
Alocasia cadieri was reportedly imported in 1938 by Jule Chantrier from the high plateaus of Annam in Central Vietnam.
This plant exhibits strong vigor, characterized by an upright and spreading habit. Dull yellowish veins complement its olive-green leaf blades.
Alocasia Celebica
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia celebica | Northwest Sulawesi, Indonesia | Herb |
Alocasia celebica, reaching a height of approximately 1.5 meters (5 feet), features rhizomes measuring 4 cm (1.5 in) in width, covered with remnants of old cataphyll bases. It produces two leaves enveloped by papery fibrous marcescent cataphylls.
The petioles, extending to about 35 cm (14 in) in length, are sheathed in the lower 1⁄4, densely and minutely pubescent, and adorned with a mottled pattern exhibiting an oblique zig-zag design.
The leaf blades are somewhat egg-shaped to arrowhead-shaped, measuring 36 cm (14 in) in length, and possess a relatively thick leathery texture.
Indigenous to Northwest Sulawesi, Indonesia, Alocasia celebica thrives in its natural habitat.
Alocasia Chaii
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia chaii | Borneo | Compact herb |
Alocasia chaii, a compact and sturdy herb, reaches a height of approximately 40 cm, featuring a short erect to decumbent stem that eventually develops into a brief rhizome.
Wild specimens typically possess a modest number of leaves, usually up to four, while cultivated variants may have up to seven leaves.
The petioles, measuring about 20 cm, are sheathed in the lower 1⁄4, puberulent, and exhibit a pale green color adorned with scattered spots and speckles of deep red in the lower half.
The broadly ovate-elliptic leaves of Alocasia chaii can reach lengths of up to 40 cm, although they are typically shorter, around 23 cm by 10-15 cm, and occasionally up to 25 cm wide.
These leaves are characterized by their thickly leathery to sub-succulent texture. They are almost completely peltate, except for a shallow retuse notch between the tips of the connate posterior lobes.
Indigenous to Borneo island, Alocasia chaii thrives on steep to precipitous slopes covered in leaf litter and red clay loam.
It prefers the understory beneath an open to moderately dense canopy of moist upper hill forest in light to moderate shade, typically at 540 to 760 m (1,772 to 2,493 ft).
Alocasia chaii bears a close resemblance to Alocasia scabriscula in overall morphology.
However, it differs in its notably smaller yet robust habit, the presence of peltate leaves, and the persistent lower spathe that takes on a bright magenta hue during fruiting.
Alocasia Clypeolata
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia clypeolata | Philippines, Lesser Sunda Islands | Petite herb |
Alocasia clypeolata is a petite herb with a height of approximately 30 cm (12 in). Its short stem measures around 5 cm in length and 2 cm in width, supporting approximately 6 leaves.
The petioles are about 17 cm (7 in) long, with sheathing in the lower quarter. The slightly leathery leaf blades are egg-shaped, darker near the main veins, and range in size from 16 by 6.5 cm (6 by 2.5 in) to 12 by 8 cm (5 by 3 in).
Synonymous with Alocasia ‘Green Shield’ and Alocasia ‘Green Cuprea’ (despite having no connection to Alocasia cuprea), this species is native to the Philippines and the Lesser Sunda Islands. It thrives in rocky soil on a steep slope at the forest edge, at an altitude of 80 m (262 ft).
Alocasia Cucullata
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia cucullata | Multiple regions | Clumping herb |
Alocasia cucullata is a small to medium-sized clumping herb, reaching a height of up to 1 m (3 ft), characterized by a somewhat robust and evergreen nature.
The plant features erect, hypogeal stems that extensively branch at the base, producing numerous leaves.
When viewed in cross-section, the petioles are weakly D-shaped, with the sheath extending about halfway up, and the margins exhibit a membranous texture. Generally, the leaves are broadly egg-shaped to heart-shaped, measuring 10-40 cm by 7-28 cm (4-16 in by 3-11 in).
Dating back to 1790, Alocasia cucullata is one of the oldest known species of Alocasia.
It was initially published under the genus Arum, predating the existence of the genus Alocasia.
It shares synonymy with Alocasia rugosa, Arum cucullatum, Caladium colocasia, Caladium cucullatum, Caladium rugosum, Colocasia cochleata, Colocasia cucullata, Colocasia rugosam, Panzhuyuia omeiensis, and Alocasia ‘Buddha’s Palm’.
This species is distributed across Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, China Southeast, East Himalaya, Hainan, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and West Himalaya. Alocasia cucullata thrives in waterside locations and fields below 2,000 m (6,562 ft).
Beyond its botanical significance, Alocasia cucullata holds cultural and medicinal importance.
It is traditionally used externally to detoxify viper bites and treat conditions such as abscesses, rheumatism, and arthritis. Additionally, it serves as a promising plant in Buddhist temples in Laos and Thailand, symbolizing good luck.
Alocasia Cucullata ‘Banana Split’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia cucullata ‘Banana Split’ | Cultivar of Alocasia cucullata | Cultivar |
Alocasia cucullata ‘Banana Split’ stands out as a cultivar of Alocasia cucullata, distinguished by its distinctive yellow variegation.
The variegation is notable for its sectoral presentation, occurring when color reaches the midvein, or it may manifest regionally.
The variegation pattern typically features an uneven border that often extends into the center of the leaf, with the color often stopping at lateral veins.
Alocasia Cucullata ‘Crinkles’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia cucullata ‘Crinkles’ | Cultivar of Alocasia cucullata | Cultivar |
Alocasia cucullata ‘Crinkles’ is a cultivated variety derived from Alocasia cucullata. It is frequently marketed under Alocasia triangularis, although this nomenclature is not officially recognized for this cultivar.
Using the Latinized name might mislead growers into thinking it represents a distinct species.
Notably, this cultivar shares similarities with Alocasia macrorrhizos ‘Shock Treatment.’ Both have experienced a comparable mutation, resulting in diamond-shaped leaves, ruffled or crinkled leaf edges, and a distinctly “cupped” leaf shape.
Alocasia Cucullata ‘Moon Landing’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia cucullata ‘Moon Landing’ | Cultivar of Alocasia cucullata | Cultivar |
Alocasia cucullata ‘Moon Landing’ represents a cultivar within the Alocasia cucullata species.
Its unique features distinguish it, including a pale center with an irregular green edge, ideally reaching around most of the leaf and never extending into the center.
This distinctive pattern creates the appearance of a pale “moon” in the center of the leaf.
Regrettably, Alocasia ‘Moon Landing’ has become exceedingly rare, bordering on extinction, mainly due to the closure of its primary source, Asiatica, around a decade ago. The variety’s scarcity is compounded by its relatively low vigor.
Given the rarity and high desirability of Alocasia ‘Moon Landing,’ some sellers tend to apply this name indiscriminately to various variegated Alocasia cucullata specimens.
Furthermore, since Alocasia ‘Moon Landing’ predates other variegation patterns, some sellers might not know more recent cultivars.
Alocasia Cucullata ‘Yellow Tail’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia cucullata ‘Yellow Tail’ | Cultivar of Alocasia cucullata | Cultivar |
Alocasia cucullata ‘Yellow Tail’ is a cultivated variety derived from Alocasia cucullata, distinguished by its unique characteristics.
This cultivar is characterized by irregular pale yellowish variegation on the leaf edge, with a contrasting green center.
This variegation pattern stands in opposition to Alocasia cucullata ‘Moon Landing,’ where an irregular green edge surrounds the pale center.
The distinct coloration of ‘Yellow Tail’ adds to its visual appeal and sets it apart within the Alocasia cucullata cultivars.
Alocasia Culionensis
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia culionensis | Philippines | Moderate herb |
Alocasia culionensis is a moderately robust herb reaching approximately 70 cm (27.5 in) in height, featuring erect stems around 2 cm (1 in) thick.
The plant bears several leaves; the petioles are about 45 cm (18 in) long, with sheathing in the lower third. The leaf blades exhibit a shape between an arrowhead and a spearhead, measuring approximately 35 by 5 cm (14 by 2 in).
This species is native to the Philippines, thriving in lowland rainforests on damp, shady ground.
Alocasia culionensis resembles Alocasia heterophylla in inflorescence form, sharing similarities such as a weakly constricted spathe and flask-shaped, upturned pistils beneath massive synandrodia occupying the upper part of the lower spathe chamber.
However, it differs in various aspects, including a relatively shorter appendix, a relatively longer male zone, larger overall inflorescences arranged into more extensive synflorescences, larger leaves with finer secondary venation, and widely diverging posterior lobes that are never peltate.
Alocasia Cuprea
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia cuprea | Borneo | Diminutive |
Alocasia cuprea is among the most well-known diminutive Alocasia species and has been continuously cultivated since its introduction around 1860.
This Bornean species typically reaches an average height of 80 cm (31.5 in) and features decumbent rhizomes measuring about 6 cm (2.5 in) in width. The plant produces several leaves, subtended by marcescent reddish-brown cataphylls.
In addition to being green, the petioles display faint mottling in brown or greenish-brown hues throughout, with a length of about 70 cm (27.5 in).
The leaves are leathery, pendent, egg-shaped, bulging between the main veins, and measure approximately 60 cm in length by 40 cm in width (24 x 16 in).
They exhibit a glossy bronze-green color on the upper side and deep purple undersides, with a hyaline colorless margin.
Alocasia cuprea has been observed in its natural habitat on Borneo island, where it thrives on slopes in the rainforest, particularly around sandstone, limestone, and ultramafic areas with rich and well-draining soil.
This habitat is typically about 1,000-1,500 m (3,281-4,921 ft).
Alocasia Decipiens
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia decipiens | India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Andaman Islands | Not specified |
Alocasia decipiens is recognized by its oblong arrowhead-shaped leaves featuring rounded lobes that taper towards the tip.
The petioles are narrowly inserted at around 2/3 of the leaf length. The plant produces twin long peduncles and short spathes, culminating in spherical berries.
Alocasia decipiens is synonymous with Arum fornicatum. Its natural habitat spans India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
This species has been observed thriving in proximity to limestone caves.
Alocasia Devansayana
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia devansayana | New Guinea | Not specified |
Alocasia devansayana is characterized by a short, tuberous rhizome and elongated, rounded petioles enveloped by a grayish-sheathing membrane at the base.
The copper-brown metallic hue of the slightly arched petioles extends into the leaf, forming its midrib. The leaves are shield-shaped, featuring erect, flat blades twice as long as wide.
Synonymous with Colocasia devansayana, this species is native to New Guinea. It thrives in the forests around Mount Wilhelm, situated south of Madang, Papua New Guinea, at elevations ranging from 800 m (2,625 ft) to 1,750 m (5,740 ft).
Alocasia Fallax
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia fallax | Not specified | Not specified |
Alocasia fallax displays leaf shapes ranging from broadly egg-like to rounded arrow-like, measuring approximately 30-50 cm by 23-30 cm (12-20 in by 9-12 in) with 7-9 pairs of nerves.
The petioles accompanying these leaves are 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 ft) long.
Alocasia Farisii
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia farisii | Kelantan, Malaysia | Mesophytic herb |
Alocasia farisii is a mesophytic herb, typically reaching around 55 cm (21.5 in) in height, although it often grows to about half that size.
The rhizome of this plant is elongated, initially upright and later extending distally in a decumbent manner.
It produces several leaves, irregularly interspersed with semi-fleshy, eventually marcescent brown cataphylls, reaching about 7 cm (3 in) in length. The petioles are smooth and pale green, sheathing in the lower 1⁄3 to 1⁄2.
The leaf blades of Alocasia farisii are thin leathery, and exhibit shapes that vary between arrowhead and spearhead or between egg and arrow.
They feature a glossy dark green color along the midrib and primary veins, while the remaining blade appears grey-green.
This species is indigenous to Kelantan, Malaysia, where it primarily grows as a lithophyte in soil and humus pockets on limestone outcrops and boulders.
Occasionally, it can be found as a terrestrial plant in seasonally dry, lightly forested Karst formations, typically at elevations ranging from 80 to 160 m (262-525 ft).
Alocasia Flemingiana
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia flemingiana | Java, Indonesia | Diminutive |
Alocasia flemingiana is a diminutive herb, standing at approximately 50 cm in height. Its rhizomes are around 3.5 cm wide, giving rise to several leaves.
The petioles typically exhibit a green hue, occasionally displaying reddish-purple mottling or streaks. The leaves themselves are mid-green on the upper surface and feature green-yellowish undersides.
The leaf shapes vary from arrow-like to partially arrow-like and egg-like, with a thin, membranous, and glabrous texture.
This species is native to Java, Indonesia, where it thrives in diverse habitats such as teak, swamp, and disturbed forests.
It can grow on volcanic soils, occasionally over limestone, spanning elevations from sea level to approximately 1,000 m (3,281 ft).
Alocasia Fornicata
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia fornicata | Multiple regions | Perennial |
Alocasia fornicata is a perennial plant characterized by broad leaves with numerous veins and a rhizomatous or tuberous growth habit.
Typically, a mature plant reaches a height of 60-90 cm (2-3 ft) and features slightly pink petioles, wide triangular leaves, and a horizontal stolon.
This species, also known as Arum fornicatum and Colocasia fornicata, is distributed across regions, including Assam, Bangladesh, East Himalaya, India, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Alocasia ‘Frydek-Bullata’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Frydek-Bullata’ | Hybrid of Alocasia micholitziana and Alocasia sinuata | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Frydek-Bullata’ is a hybrid resulting from the cross between Alocasia micholitziana ‘Maxkowskii’ and Alocasia sinuata, created by Brian Williams.
The leaves of this hybrid exhibit a distinctive bullate (blistered or puckered) texture and possess a somewhat satiny sheen when freshly emerged.v
Alocasia Gageana
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia gageana | Myanmar | Not specified |
The leaves of Alocasia gageana are green and feature undulating margins with a slight sinuation at the edges. The midrib and primary surface veins are prominently raised and sunken, adding to the plant’s visual appeal.
Alocasia gageana is also known as Alocasia ‘California’ and Alocasia ‘Californicus Corrugata.’ Indigenous to Myanmar, this plant can withstand temperatures as low as 5°C (41°F) for extended periods without entering dormancy.
Confusion with Alocasia macrorrhizos is common, but distinctive features of Alocasia gageana include a semi-peltate sinus insertion on the petiole, smaller leaf size at maturity, a more oval leaf shape, and sunken lateral veins as opposed to the embossed veins of Alocasia macrorrhizos.
Alocasia ‘Golden Bone’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Golden Bone’ | Hybrid of Alocasia micholitziana and Alocasia cuprea | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Golden Bone’ is a naturally occurring hybrid resulting from the cross between Alocasia micholitziana ‘Maxkowskii’ and Alocasia cuprea.
Alocasia heterophylla
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia heterophylla | Philippines | Petite herb |
Alocasia heterophylla is a petite herb that reaches a height of up to 40 cm (16 in). Its stem, approximately 20 cm (8 in) long, can be either decumbent or creeping.
The plant typically boasts 3-5 leaves with petioles around 35 cm (14 in) length, sheathed in the lower quarter to third.
The leaves, which can reach about 27 cm (10.5 in) in length, are narrow and exhibit a shape that falls between an arrowhead and a spearhead. Adult plants may showcase shallow leaves to deeply peltate or not at all.
Alocasia heterophylla shares synonymous names with Alocasia manilensis, Alocasia warburgii, Caladium heterophyllum, and Colocasia heterophylla.
Originating from the Philippines, this herb thrives in lowland rainforests, particularly dipterocarp forests, up to an altitude of approximately 300 m (984 ft).
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Green Veins’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia heterophylla ‘Green Veins’ | Cultivar of Alocasia heterophylla | Cultivar |
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Green Veins’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia heterophylla, distinguished by its thick, leathery, and glossy arrowhead-shaped leaves.
The defining feature of this cultivar is the prominent contrast between the vibrant green color of the leaf surface and the distinct midrib and veins.
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Green’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia heterophylla ‘Green’ | Cultivar of Alocasia heterophylla | Cultivar |
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Green’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia heterophylla, known for its distinctive features, including thick, leathery, and matte arrowhead-shaped green leaves.
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Silver Kris’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia heterophylla ‘Silver Kris’ | Cultivar of Alocasia heterophylla | Cultivar |
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Silver Kris’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia heterophylla known for its distinctive features.
Leathery and matte, arrowhead-shaped green leaves characterize it. The upper side of the leaves has a specific silver color, creating a striking contrast with the dark and embossed midrib, primary lateral veins, and visible secondary veins.
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Silver’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia heterophylla ‘Silver’ | Cultivar of Alocasia heterophylla | Cultivar |
Alocasia heterophylla ‘Silver’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia heterophylla distinguished by its unique features. Leathery and glossy, arrowhead-shaped green leaves characterize the plant.
The upper side of the leaves exhibits a specific silver color, creating a striking contrast with the dark midrib, primary lateral veins, and visible secondary veins.
Alocasia hollrungii
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia hollrungii | Bismarck Archipelago | Compact plant |
Alocasia hollrungii is a relatively compact and sturdy plant with rhizomes that measure between 4-10 cm (1.5-4 in) in width.
It typically produces around 6 leaves, each displaying significant variation in both size and shape. The petioles of this species are approximately 90 cm (35 in) long, often featuring a ridge along the upper surface, and they sheathe in the lower half.
The color of the petioles ranges from green to bronze, occasionally purple-black, with possible pinkish mottling.
The leaves of Alocasia hollrungii are characterized by their arrowhead-shaped form, which can vary from narrow to broad. They have a membranous to leathery texture, and the margin is generally entire, occasionally faintly undulated.
Alocasia hollrungii is indigenous to the Bismarck Archipelago, situated off the northeastern coast of New Guinea.
It thrives in lowland areas, commonly found in rainforests, forest edges, gaps, and regrowth, and often serves as a prolific weed in plantations.
Alocasia hypoleuca
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia hypoleuca | Thailand | Substantial herb |
Alocasia hypoleuca is a substantial, thick-stemmed evergreen herb capable of reaching a height of 3 m (10 ft). It boasts a slender, self-supporting stem that attains a height of about 2 meters (6.5 ft) or more.
In larger specimens, multiple leaves cluster around the tips of the plant. The petioles, which are sheathed in the lower quarter to third, measure 0.75–1 m (2.5 – 3.3 ft) in length.
The leaves are characterized by their bluntly triangular shape, falling between an egg and an arrowhead, held erect, and measuring 100 by 50 cm (3 by 1.5 ft). The color of the leaves is light green.
Indigenous to Thailand, Alocasia hypoleuca thrives in the dry evergreen forest on granite at an elevation of approximately 500 m (1,640 ft).
While closely related to Alocasia macrorrhizos, Alocasia hypoleuca is distinguished by its tall, slender stems, which remain self-supporting for an extended period compared to Alocasia macrorrhizos stems of similar length, which would typically become decumbent.
Alocasia indica
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia indica | Multiple regions | Not specified |
Alocasia indica displays leaves with a shape reminiscent of a cross between an egg and a heart. These leaves, measuring 60 to 90 cm (2 to 3 ft) in length, feature broad, egg-shaped basal lobes or auricles that are distinct from the petioles.
This species has historically been utilized for culinary and medicinal purposes in India.
Synonymous with Alocasia metallica, Arum indicum, Alocasia variegata, and Colocasia indica, Alocasia indica is native to Assam, Bangladesh, East Himalaya, India, Jawa, Laccadive Is., Myanmar, and Vietnam.
It’s worth noting that Alocasia indica is not universally accepted by most botanists, who often consider it a synonym for Alocasia macrorrhizos.
Alocasia infernalis
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia infernalis | Sarawak, Malaysia | Compact plant |
Alocasia infernalis is a compact yet sturdy plant reaching approximately 55 cm (22 in) in height. Its slim stem, initially upright and later decumbent, produces several leaves in its natural habitat.
When cultivated, it can grow up to 12 leaves, with juveniles displaying a spreading growth pattern and adults featuring erect leaves.
The petioles, extending about 20 cm (8 in), are slender, spreading, and ascending. The lower part of the petioles is sheathed, minutely puberulent, showcasing hues from bronze-green to purple-green, with a snakeskin pattern intensifying under stronger light.
Leaves exhibit a deep purple, glossy upper surface with smooth margins. They are egg-shaped and triangular, measuring up to 25 cm (10 in) in length, although often shorter, and possessing a thin leathery texture.
While juvenile leaves are nearly entirely peltate, adult leaves have a heavily peltate structure.
Indigenous to Sarawak, Malaysia, Alocasia infernalis thrives in valley bottoms within moist, consistently wet lowland forests.
It prefers the rich, leaf litter-covered clay loams derived from red sandstone, thriving in heavy shade at approximately 182-249 m (597-817 ft) above sea level.
This species is distinguishable from other Bornean Alocasias due to its smaller size, ascending leaves, and the dark purple to purplish-black, shiny appearance of its leaf blade.
Alocasia inornata
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia inornata | Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Indonesia | Robust plant |
Alocasia inornata is a robust plant that reaches an average height of 1.3 m (4 ft), typically producing 4-5 leaves under cultivation.
The pale green petioles are densely dotted, with a purple-violet hue near the apex. They also feature a green streak on the upper face and are shortly pubescent. The leaf blades are broad and have a shape resembling a cross between an arrowhead and a heart.
Leaves are pale green on both sides, with margins barely lobed at the tips of their nerves.
This species, also known as Alocasia nobilis, is native to Peninsular Malaysia and Sumatra, Indonesia.
Alocasia inornata demonstrates a broad ecological range, thriving in disturbed environments such as forests, scrubs, swampy areas, river banks, and occasionally on limestone. Its habitat spans from sea level to around 1,200 m (3,937 ft) in altitude.
Alocasia ‘Kalila’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Kalila’ | Hybrid of Alocasia ‘Bisma’ and Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’ | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Kalila’ is a hybrid resulting from the cross between Alocasia ‘Bisma’ and Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’.
This particular hybridization was initially carried out by a hybridizer named Bedy, using flowers from Kalila in Kalimantan. The same breeding effort produced two additional cultivars: Alocasia ‘Ulla’ and Alocasia ‘Katya.’
Alocasia ‘Katya’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Katya’ | Hybrid of Alocasia ‘Bisma’ and Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’ | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Katya’ is a hybrid resulting from the cross between Alocasia ‘Bisma’ and Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’. This hybridization was first accomplished by Bedy using flowers from Kalila in Kalimantan.
It’s worth noting that the same breeding efforts produced two additional cultivars, namely Alocasia ‘Kalila’ and Alocasia ‘Ulla.’
Alocasia kerinciensis
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia kerinciensis | West Sumatera and Jambi Provinces, Indonesia | Petite herb |
Alocasia kerinciensis is a petite terrestrial herb with several leaves interspersed with membranous cataphylls.
The petioles, which measure approximately 25 cm (10 in) in length, are sheathed in the lower fifth or less of the leaf.
The leaves are about 13-16 cm by 6-9 cm (5-6 in by 2.5-3.5 in), possessing a stiffly membranous texture, a dull mid-green color, a broad to narrowly egg-shaped form, and are peltate, nearly completely joined at the posterior lobes.
This species is indigenous to the region between G. Kerinci and Lake Kerinci, spanning the border of West Sumatera and Jambi Provinces in Indonesia.
Its habitat includes the montane forest floor at altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 m (4,921 to 6,562 ft).
Alocasia lancifolia
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia lancifolia | New Guinea | Diminutive |
Alocasia lancifolia, characterized by its diminutive size and moderate robustness, features stems approximately 6 cm (2.5 in) in thickness, bearing 5-11 leaves.
The petioles, measuring about 35 cm (14 in) in length, are shorter than the blades and sheathed for over half their length. The leaf blades resemble rounded lance heads, exhibiting a leathery texture and glossy mid-green foliage on the upper side.
These leaves typically measure around 50 cm (20 in) in length (though often less) and 14 cm (5.5 in) in width at their widest point.
This species is found sporadically across New Guinea, with a habitat spanning lowlands, open swampy areas in lowland rainforests, and along forest streams up to approximately 600 m (1,970 ft) in altitude.
Alocasia lauterbachiana
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia lauterbachiana | Northern New Guinea, Bismarck Archipelago | Moderate plant |
Alocasia lauterbachiana features erect brown stems that can reach a height of 1.5 meters, bearing approximately 6 leaves clustered at the terminal end.
The petioles, measuring 40 cm in length, are sheathed in the lower third to half and display a chocolate-brown mottling. Deep bronze-green leaves on the upper side and dark purple below are narrowly spearhead-shaped with serrated margins.
This species is synonymous with Alocasia wavriniana, Schizocasia lauterbachiana, Xenophya lauterbachiana, and Alocasia ‘Purple Sword.’
It is indigenous to Northern New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago, thriving in lowland rainforests, particularly near river edges and forest peripheries.
Alocasia ‘Lukiwan’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Lukiwan’ | Hybrid of Alocasia alba and Alocasia sinuata | Hybrid |
Alocasia ‘Lukiwan’ is a hybrid resulting from the cross between Alocasia alba and Alocasia sinuata. Wawan initially conducted this hybridization at the Chong Lee Nursery in Malaysia from 2001 to 2016.
Alocasia maquilingensis
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia maquilingensis | Luzon, Mindanao, Leyte, Panay, Philippines | Robust herb |
A robust caulescent herb, Alocasia maquilingensis produces several leaves without interspersed cataphylls.
The petioles, approximately 1 m (3 ft) long, range from densely pubescent to glabrescent and are sheathed in the lower third to half. The leaves are broadly egg-shaped to arrowhead-shaped, measuring about 55-90 cm (22-35 in) in length.
This plant is synonymous with Alocasia vulcanica and is native to Luzon, Mindanao, Leyte, and Panay in the Philippines. It thrives on slopes in primary rainforests at low to medium elevations.
Alocasia melo
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia melo | Sabah, Malaysian Borneo | Herb |
Alocasia melo typically reaches a height of 25–35 cm, featuring an erect, short stem up to 3 cm wide and four leaves that overlap each other.
The petioles are approximately 14–19 cm long, pale green, glabrous, smooth, and sheathed, with sparse burgundy spotting in the lower fifth.
The leaves are broadly egg-shaped to almost rounded, measuring 18–25 cm in length and 15 cm in width.
They exhibit a wrinkled and blistered texture, appearing somewhat bluish-green on the upper surface and smooth and pale greenish-white on the lower surface. The leaves are leathery and peltate.
Alocasia melo is synonymous with Alocasia rugosa and Alocasia ‘Rhino Skin.’ This species is indigenous to Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, and is mainly found on ultramafic rock on the floor of tropical lowland rainforests.
It thrives in thin soil along steep banks of fast-flowing streams at elevations of 120-400 m (394-1,312 ft) above sea level. Given its habitat preferences, it requires high temperatures, humidity, and protection from direct sunlight.
Alocasia micholitziana
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia micholitziana | Luzon, Philippines | Moderately robust |
Alocasia micholitziana is a moderately robust herb with an erect to decumbent stem measuring about 4 cm (1.5 in) in diameter.
It typically bears four to seven leaves without cataphylls. The petioles, approximately 45 cm (18 in) long, are sheathed in the lower quarter to third and exhibit mottled brownish, reddish, and purplish coloring.
The velvety matte deep green leaf blades of Alocasia micholitziana are roughly 40 cm long by 13 cm wide (16×5 in) and are shallowly to shallowly peltate.
This species is synonymous with Alocasia ‘African Mask,’ Alocasia ‘Green Velvet,’ Alocasia ‘Green Goddess,’ and Alocasia ‘Silver Vein.’
Indigenous to Luzon, Philippines, Alocasia micholitziana is commonly found in primary and secondary forests and roadside clearings at elevations ranging from approximately 1,200 to 1,500 m (3,937-4,921 ft).
Although the available data are limited, this species is considered common and widespread, likely occurring over a wider altitudinal range than currently documented.
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek’ | Cultivar of Alocasia micholitziana | Cultivar |
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek’ is a rare variegated cultivar of Alocasia micholitziana.
It is distinguished by its white, mint, or yellow variegation, which overlays the characteristic white veins and dark green velvet leaves of Alocasia micholitziana ‘Maxkowskii.’
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Maxkowskii’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia micholitziana ‘Maxkowskii’ | Cultivar of Alocasia micholitziana | Cultivar |
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Maxkowskii’ is the most widely cultivated cultivar of Alocasia micholitziana. It is known for its distinctive features, including prominent white veins on a dark green velvet leaf surface.
Alocasia minuscula
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia minuscula | Borneo | Diminutive |
Alocasia minuscula is a diminutive plant, typically measuring 10-20 cm (4-8 in) in height. The stem is about 1 cm (1⁄5 in) wide, suberect and condensed, adorned with roots along its length, and covered with old leaf bases and marcescent cataphylls.
The plant features several to nine leaves interspersed with papery membranous cataphylls. The petioles are 5-10 cm (2-4 in) long. The leaf blades are narrowly egg-shaped and roundly lanceolate, measuring 8-13 cm by 2-3 cm (3-5 in by 1 in), peltate, and leathery.
This species is native to Borneo and is typically found in the lowland peat swamp forest.
Alocasia monticola
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia monticola | New Guinea | Moderate herb |
Alocasia monticola is a moderately robust herb characterized by erect or decumbent rhizomes about 30 cm (12 in) long and 3.5 cm (1.5 in) wide.
The plant typically has six leaves with 45 cm (18 in) long green petioles and sometimes mottled dark red. The leaf blades exhibit a distinct spearhead shape, occasionally arrowhead-shaped, and are held horizontally.
This species is native to New Guinea and is typically found in the undergrowth of lower montane rainforests, usually in damp sites.
Alocasia navicularis
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia navicularis | Assam, Bangladesh, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam | Massive plant |
Alocasia navicularis, in addition to its massive size and thickness of 1.5 m (5 ft), is evergreen and contains milky latex.
Leaves are several together, clustered at the tips of larger plants’ stems. Petioles can reach 1.5 meters (5 ft) long. Leaf blades are about 130 by 120 cm (51 by 47 in) and are heart-shaped and peltate.
Alocasia navicularis is synonymous with Colocasia navicularis. This species is native to Assam, Bangladesh, China (South-Central), India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. It grows in moist, evergreen, lower-montane forests and sometimes on limestone.
Alocasia nebula
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia nebula | Borneo | Herb |
The Alocasia nebula is 20-30 cm tall with a 2.5 cm thick stem. Leaves are about six in number and glabrous. The petioles are 15 cm long, dull pale green, and spotted with deep purple dots.
The leaf blades are egg-shaped to arrowhead-shaped, leathery, matte gray-green on the upper surface and dark reddish purple on the lower surface.
Alocasia nebula is synonymous with Alocasia guttata var. imperialism. This species is native to Borneo island. It grows on rainforest floors over limestone at low elevations.
Alocasia nicolsonii
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia nicolsonii | New Guinea | Robust herb |
Alocasia nicolsonii is a robust herb with a decumbent rhizome about 8 cm (3 in) in diameter. It bears a large number of leaves, sometimes up to 12.
The petioles are about 90 cm (35 in) long, with scattered glands on the upper surface. The plant is covered in fibers or old leaf bases.
The leaves are arrowhead-shaped to egg-shaped, dull to slightly glossy green on their upper surfaces, and paler on their lower surfaces, sometimes with reddish-purple pigments.
This species is endemic to New Guinea. It grows in the mid-montane rainforests in damp places at about 1,700-2,700 m (5,577-8,858ft) altitude.
Alocasia nicolsonii differs from other known species of Alocasia by its melting sheath, reddish fruiting spathe, imprinted with synandria, and thin appendage.
Alocasia nycteries
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia nycteris | Philippines | Tall plant |
Approximately 1.5 m (5 ft) tall, Alocasia nycteris has erect or decumbent stems about 2 cm (1 in) wide. It has 1 m (3 ft) long petioles with blackish-green streaks that are sheathed for a quarter of its length.
The leaves are up to 37 cm (14.5 in) long, spearhead-shaped to arrowhead-shaped, coriaceous, and have a dark glossy green.
Alocasia nycteris is synonymous with Alocasia advincula and Alocasia ‘Batwing’. This species is native to the Philippines.
It grows in remnant lowland forests, secondary forests, rocky areas, shaded places along roadsides, and disturbed secondary forests near rice fields.
Alocasia odora
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia odora | Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Laos, Myanmar, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam | Not specified |
Alocasia odora is synonymous with Alocasia commutata, Alocasia subodorata, Alocasia tonkinensis, Arum odoratum, Arum odorum, Caladium odoratissimum, Caladium odorum, and Colocasia odora.
This species is found in Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China South-Central, China Southeast, East Himalaya, Hainan, India, Japan, Laos, Myanmar, Nansei-Shoto, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Alocasia odora ‘Blue’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia odora ‘Blue’ | Cultivar of Alocasia odora | Cultivar |
Alocasia odora ‘Blue’ is a cultivar of Alocasia odora originating from Yunnan, China. Its name comes from the bluish color observed in the petioles and peduncles, which can sometimes extend into the leaf’s main veins.
The best color shows when the plant is grown in shade. The leaves are thinner and more papery in feel than those of the Alocasia odora.
Alocasia odora ‘Indian’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia odora ‘Indian’ | Cultivar of Alocasia odora | Cultivar |
Alocasia odora ‘Indian’ is a cultivar of Alocasia odora. This cultivar resembles Alocasia cucullata. However, it grows much larger, is a lighter shade of green overall, and produces many more blooms than Alocasia cucullata.
Alocasia odora ‘Okinawa Silver’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia odora ‘Okinawa Silver’ | Cultivar of Alocasia odora | Cultivar |
The only variegated cultivar of Alocasia odora is ‘Okinawa Silver.’ It grows much smaller than Alocasia odora, white-variegated Alocasia macrorrhizos, or white-variegated Alocasia gageana.
In Alan Galloway’s report, the largest specimen measured 1 m (3 ft) high.
Although it’s hard to identify, Alocasia odora ‘Okinawa Silver’ has an asymmetry between the white and green sectors not seen in other cultivars of Alocasia odora, Alocasia gageana, or Alocasia macrorrhizos.
Alocasia pangeran
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia pangeran | Sabah (Borneo) | Herb |
Alocasia pangeran grows to around 60 cm (24 in) tall and bears about four leaves. The leaves are variable, arrowhead-shaped to spearhead-shaped, triangular in outline, dark green on the upper surface, paler on the lower surface, and about 20-35 cm (8-14 in) long. The petioles are about 60 cm (24 in) long, smooth, and dark green.
This species is endemic to Sabah (Borneo), known only from Madai Caves, where it is abundant. It grows as a facultative lithophyte in soil and humus pockets on limestone outcrops and boulders in mixed lowland dipterocarp forest at around 400 m (1,312 ft) above sea level.
The Alocasia pangeran is distinguished from Alocasia princeps by its calcicolous lithophytic habit, more diminutive stature, slender inflorescence, relatively longer lower spathe, and lax interstice.
It coexists with the terrestrial Alocasia wongii and the lithophytic Alocasia puteri.
Alocasia peltata
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia peltata | Borneo | Petite plant |
Standing around 30 cm (12 in), Alocasia peltata boasts an elongated, slender stem that sprawls gracefully, featuring internodes measuring up to 2 cm (1 in).
One can observe a sparse arrangement of leaves along the stem, interspersed with papery membranous lanceolate cataphylls. The petioles extend to approximately 16 cm (6 in) in length.
The leaf blades exhibit a narrowly elliptic to oblong-ovate shape, ranging from 12 to 28 cm (5-11 in) in length and 3 to 10 cm (1-4 in) in width.
They are peltate, somewhat leathery, and display a glossy green or purple hue on the upper surface while appearing paler on the lower surface.
This species is native to Borneo, with occurrences scattered across Sarawak, Brunei, and central Kalimantan. Typically, it thrives on mossy forest floors situated on ridges at altitudes of about 1,200 m (3,937 ft).
Alocasia kerinciensis and this species share similarities in appearance, featuring intramarginal veins, alternating arrangements of foliage leaves and cataphylls, and typically boasting elongated stems with lengthy internodes.
Notably, the leaves and spathe of Alocasia peltata are more slender, the appendix is longer, the male zone is wholly enclosed within the spathe, the pistils are lengthier, and the synandria are not as robust.
Alocasia peltata ‘Silver Grey’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia peltata ‘Silver Grey’ | Cultivar of Alocasia peltata | Cultivar |
Alocasia peltata ‘Silver Grey’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia peltata distinguished by its silvery-grey foliage.
Alocasia perakensis
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia perakensis | Peninsular Malaysia | Partially upright |
Alocasia perakensis is a partially upright plant, reaching a height of about 75 cm (29.5 in) but often smaller.
The stems, approximately 2.5 cm (1 in) wide, exhibit a creeping to decumbent growth pattern with elongated structures and long internodes. Irregularly interspersed along the stems are lanceolate cataphylls.
Multiple leaves are present along the stem, featuring 40 cm (16 in) long petioles with a color spectrum ranging from grey-green to purple-brown.
The leaves vary from dark green to grey-green, showcasing an egg-shaped to elliptic form. They are peltate, leathery, and sub-succulent in nature.
Endemic to Peninsular Malaysia, this species thrives in montane forests, primarily on leaf litter and rocks, typically found at altitudes ranging from 1,100 to 1,525 m (3,600 to 5,000 ft).
However, occurrences as low as 650 m (2,000 ft) have been documented.
Alocasia perakensis ‘Silver Giant’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia perakensis ‘Silver Giant’ | Introduced cultivar | Cultivar |
Alocasia perakensis ‘Silver Giant’ is an introduced cultivar with larger silvery-green leaves, presented to the public in 2021/2022 by Silver Krome.
Alocasia portei
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia portei | Luzon, Philippines | Arborescent |
Alocasia portei, also known as Schizocasia portei (1879), Schizocasia regnieri (1887), and Alocasia ‘Malaysian Monster,’ is a substantial arborescent pachycaul that can reach a height of 6m (20ft).
Its stems, approximately 40 cm wide at the base, develop tessellated “bark” as they age.
Multiple leaves are present, featuring 1.5 m long petioles ranging from yellowish to dark green, mottled with chocolate. The arrowhead-shaped leaves are pinnately divided, dark green, leathery, and have ruffled margins.
This species is native to Luzon, Philippines, and is typically found in secondary forests at low to medium elevations.
Alocasia princeps
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia princeps | Borneo | Robust herb |
It is a robust herb reaching a height of approximately 0.8-1.8 m (2.6-6 ft) with around four leaves.
Alocasia princeps exhibits suberect petioles that extend about 1.6 m (5 ft) in length.
These petioles are smooth to slightly rough, displaying a dark brownish-green hue with a faint oblique wavy pattern and random purple-brown dots and lines.
The leathery but not sub-succulent leaf blades measure around 55 cm (21.5 in) in length. When young, they shine and are dark green, while the lower surface may be pale and occasionally faintly flushed with purple.
The leaves are spearhead-shaped to arrowhead-shaped, displaying a triangular outline. Leaf margins vary from smooth to slightly wavy.
Alocasia princeps, synonymous with Alocasia porphyroneura, is native to Borneo and is widespread. It thrives in rainforests on well-drained slopes and ridgetops, growing on various substrates such as basalt and limestone.
Its habitat ranges from near sea level to approximately 1,200 m (3,937 ft) in altitude.
Alocasia princeps ‘Candy Sticks’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia princeps ‘Candy Sticks’ | Cultivar derived from Alocasia princeps | Cultivar |
Alocasia princeps ‘Candy Sticks’ is a cultivated variety derived from Alocasia princeps.
Alocasia princeps ‘Purple Cloak’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia princeps ‘Purple Cloak’ | Cultivar derived from Alocasia princeps | Cultivar |
Alocasia princeps ‘Purple Cloak’ is a cultivated variety of Alocasia princeps.
Alocasia principiculus
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia principiculus | Borneo | Petite plant |
Alocasia principiculus is a petite, lithophytic plant featuring multiple leaves. Its petioles measure 20-30 cm long, displaying hues ranging from grey-green to dark purple-brown.
The leaves are approximately 25 cm long, arrowhead-shaped to spearhead-shaped, and narrowly triangular in outline.
The leaf surface exhibits a dull to slightly glossy texture, with a distinct grey-green coloration above and a paler shade below, and the leaves are thinly leathery.
This species is exclusive to Borneo, specifically in Sabah and East Kalimantan. It thrives in lowland rainforests, flourishing on and amidst limestone boulders within the altitude range of sea level to 600 m (1,969 ft).
Alocasia ‘Pseudo Sanderiana’
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia ‘Pseudo Sanderiana’ | Cultivar | Cultivar |
Alocasia ‘Pseudo Sanderiana’ is an Aroid characterized by arrowhead-shaped leaves showcasing a rich, brownish-green hue with purple undersides.
The distinctive silver veining on its leaves is more subtle than Alocasia Sanderiana, and its leaf margins are less prominently curved.
Alocasia puber
| Alocasia Type | Origin | Category |
| Alocasia puber | Java, Sumatera, Malaysia | Sturdy Aroid |
Alocasia puber is a sturdy and sizable Aroid characterized by a stem approximately 10 cm (4 in) thick and multiple leaves.
The petioles can reach up to 1.5 m (5 ft) in length, displaying a hairy texture and ranging in color from green to dark red. The blades typically take on an arrowhead shape, measuring around 80 cm by 70 cm (32 by 28 in).
Alocasia puber shares synonymous names with Alocasia margaritae, Alocasia ovalifolia, Alocasia crassinervia, and Caladium pubigerum.
Indigenous to West to central Java, Southern Sumatera, and Peninsular Malaysia, this species thrives in open swampy areas and wet locations within open forests, spanning from sea level to approximately 1,000 m (3,281 ft) altitudes.
Wrapping Up
I believe you’ve relished this brief journey into the realm of broad-leaved beauties, the Alocasias.
As evident, there’s a variety to suit every taste; just be sure to adhere to our care tips, and the occasional dose of water-soluble fertilizer certainly won’t hurt.
These plants can gracefully occupy a substantial space with minimal attention and present a truly breathtaking display.
Select the one that aligns with your personality, and with a bit of care, you’ll revel in its beauty for many years!
References:
- https://houseplantcentral.com/alocasia-varieties/
- https://www.aroidpedia.com/alocasia
- https://justhouseplants.com/alocasia-varieties/
https://houseplantalley.com/alocasia-varieties-with-names-and-pictures/
