Syngonium and Alocasia are popular houseplants, often admired for their attractive foliage. They share some superficial similarities that can lead to confusion for new plant enthusiasts. This article clarifies their distinctions for identification and care.
Visual Identification
Syngonium plants, commonly known as Arrowhead Vines, typically feature leaves that change shape as they mature. Younger leaves are often distinctly arrow-shaped, while older leaves can develop multiple lobes, appearing more segmented or “goosefoot-like.” The leaf texture of Syngonium is softer, often feeling papery or velvety.
In contrast, Alocasia plants, often called Elephant Ear plants, are recognized for their typically larger, more rigid leaves. These leaves are heart-shaped or sagittate (arrowhead-shaped with prominent basal lobes), and often display a leathery or waxy texture. Alocasia leaves often have distinctive, prominent veins.
For stem structure, Syngonium plants exhibit a vining habit, with trailing or climbing stems. They often produce aerial roots for clinging. Alocasia plants, however, typically grow from a rhizome or corm, producing upright petioles (leaf stalks) directly from the soil. This results in a more upright, clumping form, unlike Syngonium’s sprawling or climbing nature.
Care Profile Differences
Syngonium plants thrive in medium to bright indirect light and tolerate lower light conditions. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so placement near a window with filtered light is ideal. Alocasia plants prefer bright, indirect light. While some Alocasia varieties tolerate more light, direct sun can scorch leaves.
Syngonium prefers consistently moist, not waterlogged, soil, allowing the top inch or two to dry between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, but they are more tolerant of occasional underwatering. Alocasia plants are more sensitive, requiring consistently moist soil but being highly susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water Alocasia when the top two to three inches of soil feel dry, ensuring proper drainage.
For soil composition, both plants benefit from well-draining, airy mixes. Syngonium thrives in nutrient-rich, well-draining potting mixes, often with added perlite or vermiculite for aeration and drainage. A slightly acidic pH (5.5-6.5) is suitable for Syngonium. Alocasia also needs a loose, well-drained potting mix that retains some moisture, with amendments like orchid bark, perlite, or coco coir to enhance drainage and aeration.
Both Syngonium and Alocasia are tropical plants, appreciating warm temperatures and high humidity. Syngonium thrives in 60-85°F (15-29°C) and benefits from moderate to high humidity. Alocasia prefers warmer conditions, 65-85°F (18-29°C), requiring high humidity (ideally 60-80%) to prevent leaf crisping. Providing a humid environment is beneficial for both, though Alocasia has a higher humidity requirement.
Growth Habits and Other Considerations
Syngonium plants exhibit a moderate to fast growth rate, and their vining stems can reach lengths of 3 to 6 feet or more indoors. They can be pruned to encourage a bushier appearance or allowed to trail and climb. Alocasia plants vary in mature size depending on the species, with some indoor varieties reaching 1 to 3 feet tall. Their growth rate is rapid during the growing season.
Both Syngonium and Alocasia are considered toxic if ingested, due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, pain, swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, and drooling. While symptoms are typically mild, any swelling in the mouth or throat area warrants immediate medical attention. Keep these plants out of reach of children and pets.
Both genera offer a wide array of varieties with diverse leaf shapes, colors, and patterns. Syngonium varieties display leaves in shades of green, lime green, or pink, often with variegation. Alocasia offers a wide spectrum of leaf colors, sizes, and textures, including varieties like ‘Black Velvet’ with dark, velvety leaves or ‘Silver Dragon’ with intricate veining. This diversity contributes to their popularity.