Alocasia longiloba is a popular ornamental houseplant native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia. Its striking appearance has earned it common names such as ‘Dragon’s Tooth’ or ‘Narrow-Leaf Alocasia,’ referring to its elongated, arrow-shaped leaves. The deep green leaves often feature prominent veins and can have contrasting purple undersides.
Alocasia Longiloba Care
Alocasia longiloba thrives when its environmental needs are consistently met. Providing the right conditions for light, water, humidity, soil, temperature, and nutrients is important for healthy growth indoors.
Light
Alocasia longiloba prospers in bright, indirect light. Placing it near an east or north-facing window is ideal, providing ample indirect light. While it tolerates some morning or evening sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves, causing pale foliage or brown patches. Insufficient light causes stunted or leggy growth, and vibrant colors may fade. Rotating the plant regularly ensures balanced growth.
Watering
Alocasia longiloba requires consistent moisture, but never waterlogged soil. Water when the top one to two inches (2-3 cm) of the soil feel dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot (yellowing leaves, collapsed stem), while underwatering causes wilting, stunted growth, and brown leaf edges. Adjust watering frequency throughout the year, reducing it during cooler, dormant months. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Humidity
High humidity is important for Alocasia longiloba. This plant thrives in environments with humidity between 60% and 70%. Low humidity causes crispy or browning leaf edges. To increase humidity, consider using a room humidifier, placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping the plant with other houseplants. While misting provides temporary relief, a humidifier offers more consistent and effective humidity.
Soil
The ideal soil mix for Alocasia longiloba is well-draining, airy, and rich in organic matter. This helps retain moisture without oversaturation, preventing root issues. A suitable blend includes peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention, combined with perlite or orchid bark for aeration and drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred.
Temperature
Alocasia longiloba prefers a consistent warm environment, thriving in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). It is sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can cause stress and induce dormancy or leaf drop. Temperatures below 60°F (15°C) can be detrimental, and the plant should be protected from frost. Maintaining a stable temperature range ensures continuous, healthy growth.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season, typically spring and summer, Alocasia longiloba benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, applied every two to four weeks is recommended. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn, harming the plant’s roots and foliage. As the plant’s growth slows in fall and winter, reduce or cease fertilization, as it may enter dormancy. Flushing the soil with clean water every few months helps prevent salt buildup from fertilizers.
Repotting Alocasia Longiloba
Repotting Alocasia longiloba is typically needed every one to two years, or when indicators appear. These include roots emerging from drainage holes, stunted growth, or the plant drying out more quickly than usual. The best time for repotting is during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
When repotting, choose a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter to avoid excess moisture and root issues. Gently remove the plant from its old container. Inspect the roots for any signs of rot and trim away unhealthy sections. Place a layer of fresh, well-draining soil mix at the bottom of the new pot, position the plant at the same depth, then backfill with more soil, gently firming it around the roots. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting.
Propagating Alocasia Longiloba
Alocasia longiloba is most commonly propagated through the division of its rhizomes or small, round corms, which are found beneath the soil. This method is often performed during repotting when the plant is already out of its pot, making the rhizomes and corms accessible. To propagate by division, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least one healthy growth point and some roots.
For corms, look for small, peanut-shaped structures attached to the roots. Gently detach these corms from the main plant, then remove their outer brown shell to reveal a creamy white bulb. These corms can be rooted in various mediums, such as sphagnum moss or shallow water, ensuring the top part of the corm is exposed to air. Provide a warm, humid environment and bright, indirect light for successful rooting, which can take several weeks. Once new roots and a small leaf have developed, the young plant can be transferred to a suitable potting mix.
Common Issues with Alocasia Longiloba
Alocasia longiloba can exhibit several common issues. Yellowing leaves are frequently a sign of improper soil moisture, particularly overwatering, or sometimes insufficient light.
Browning leaf tips or edges indicate low humidity or underwatering; increasing humidity or adjusting watering can resolve this. Drooping leaves result from either underwatering (dry soil) or root rot (overwatering). Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects affect Alocasia longiloba. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil are effective. Maintaining good air circulation and cleaning leaves helps prevent issues.