Alocasia robusta M.Hotta

• Genus: Alocasia
• Botanical Background: Described by botanist M. Hotta, Alocasia robusta was named for its robust, leathery leaves. The species is part of the diverse genus Alocasia, known for its striking foliage and adaptation to tropical environments.

• Geographical Range: Native to Southeast Asia, specifically the Philippines, where it thrives in humid, tropical rainforests at lower altitudes.
• Environment: Thrives in warm, humid environments with consistently moist, well-drained soils; it is adapted to high humidity and temperatures between 25°C-30°C, often found in shaded understories of tropical forests.

Leaves

• Large, arrow-shaped, and leathery with pronounced veins
• They can grow up to 30 cm long, featuring dark green coloration with lighter veining

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Consists of a typical spadix surrounded by a white spathe, often unnoticeable due to the prominence of the foliage
• Lacks a strong scent, focusing its reproductive efforts on insect pollination

Growth Habit

• A terrestrial plant, growing from rhizomes
• Has a bushy, upright growth habit, with large leaves emerging from a central stem
• Not epiphytic or aquatic

Light Requirements

• Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some light shade
• Direct sunlight may scorch its leaves

Watering & Humidity

• Requires consistently moist soil and high humidity
• Should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to slightly dry between waterings to avoid root rot

Soil & Potting Mix

• A well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral potting mix is ideal
• A mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark works well to retain moisture without becoming soggy

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 25°C-30°C
• Balanced water-soluble fertilizer monthly

Division

• Most common method of propagation is by division, taking sections of the rhizome with at least one growing point

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

• Stem cuttings are also viable, though less common

Seeds

• Less common in cultivation; should be sown in a moist, warm environment

Typical Issues

• Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs
• Root rot can occur if overwatered or kept in poorly draining soil

Treatment Recommendations

• Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap, and aphids with neem oil
• Root rot requires the removal of affected roots and repotting in fresh, well-draining soil

• A sought-after species due to its dramatic foliage, which has made it a favorite among plant collectors and decorators
• Large, striking leaves and ease of care make it a popular ornamental, especially in tropical and subtropical landscapes

Wild Population Status

• No significant conservation concerns have been reported for Alocasia robusta, though habitat loss in Southeast Asia may impact wild populations

Market Availability

• Commonly cultivated and available in horticultural markets, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions