Plant Type:
Tender perennial
Alocasia macrorrhizos ‘Black Stem’ is a large leaved tender perennial plant that has an underground corm, similar to a bulb.
Cold Hardiness:
Tender
This tropical plant will require protection from cold weather. Alocasia macrorrhizos ‘Black Stem’ can be grown as a houseplant or overwintered in a semi-dormant state.
Eventual Height:
1.5-2.5m
In UK gardens, Alocasia macrorrhizos ‘Black Stem’ can reach an impressive mature height of 1.5 to 2.5 meters, creating a striking tropical statement.
Light requirements:
Full Sun – Partial Shade
In UK tropical gardens, Alocasia macrorrhizos ‘Black Stem’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct harsh sun, especially in summer, as it can scorch the leaves. While it can tolerate slightly lower light, growth may be slower. Ideally, it prefers a sheltered spot with dappled shade or bright overhead light, mimicking its natural rainforest understory habitat.
Water Requirements:
Frequent
These large leaved plants benefit from frequent watering through the warm summer months. You can even grow Alocasia plants as marginal aquatic plants with their roots in water through summer.
Caring for this plant:
Spring & Summer: As the weather warms Alocasia plants will require an increased amount of water. Alocasia thrive in rich moist soil. Feed weekly with a dilute organic liquid feed to promote healthy growth.
Autumn & Winter: Water Alocasia less as the weather cools. Protect tender Alocasia plants by bring them indoors as houseplants or storing them in a dry dormant state in a frost free environment.
