Alocasia scalprum

Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing

Alocasia scalprum is a rare and stunning aroid admired for its long, narrow, sword-like leaves with a leathery texture and deep green color. Native to the Philippines, this exotic plant is perfect for collectors who love unique foliage plants. Though it looks dramatic, with proper care it can thrive beautifully in your home or nursery.

🌿 Alocasia scalprum Care Guide :

🌞 Light Requirements

Alocasia scalprum prefers bright, indirect light. Place it near an east- or north-facing window where it receives filtered sunlight. Avoid direct harsh sunlight, especially afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves and cause fading or brown patches. If grown indoors in lower light, growth may slow down, and leaves may become smaller. In Kerala’s tropical climate, partial shade outdoors works very well.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

Being a tropical plant, Alocasia scalprum loves warmth and humidity. The ideal temperature range is 18°C to 30°C. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C, as cold stress can damage the plant.

High humidity (above 60%) is ideal. If you are growing it indoors with AC, consider:

• Using a humidity tray

• Grouping plants together

• Using a room humidifier

In places like Thrissur and other humid regions of Kerala, natural humidity is usually sufficient.

💧 Watering

Alocasia scalprum prefers slightly moist soil, but it does not tolerate waterlogging. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot.

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Ensure the pot has proper drainage holes. During the rainy season, reduce watering frequency. In summer, watering may be needed 2–3 times per week depending on temperature and pot size.

Yellow leaves often indicate overwatering, while drooping may signal underwatering.

🌱 Soil Mix

A well-draining, airy soil mix is essential. Use a chunky aroid mix containing:

• Coco peat or peat moss

• Perlite

• Orchid bark

• Compost

This type of mix allows roots to breathe while retaining enough moisture. Heavy garden soil should be avoided as it retains too much water.

🪴 Potting & Repotting

Choose a pot with good drainage. Terracotta pots are excellent as they help absorb excess moisture. Repot every 1–2 years or when you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes. Spring or early monsoon is the best time for repotting.

🌿 Fertilizing

Feed the plant during its active growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (such as 19-19-19) diluted to half strength every 3–4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can burn the roots. Reduce feeding during winter or slower growth periods.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

Remove yellow or damaged leaves using clean, sharp scissors. Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them shiny. This also helps the plant photosynthesize efficiently.

🐛 Pests & Problems

Alocasia scalprum can occasionally attract:

• Spider mites

• Mealybugs

• Aphids

Inspect leaves regularly, especially the undersides. If pests appear, treat with neem oil spray or mild insecticidal soap every 7 days until controlled.

🌱 Propagation

Propagation is usually done through division. When repotting, gently separate offsets (baby plants) attached to the mother plant and pot them individually in a well-draining mix.

⚠️ Toxicity

Like other Alocasias, this plant is toxic if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals. Keep it away from pets and small children.