ALOCASIA BLACK VELVET
The almost Jurassic shape of the Alocasia Black Velvet and the distinctive leaf colour make this easy care Alocasia a real stand out.
WATER
Let the top 5 to 10cm of soil dry out before watering, just be careful not to let it dry out completely. They can be susceptible to root rot so never let them sit in water.
LIGHT
Bright indirect light is perfect for your Black Velvet. Direct light onto then leaves will burn them.
FERTILISING
Feed twice a month with houseplant fertiliser during the Spring and Summer months.
SOIL
Your Black Velvet will appreciate a well draining soil mix. Visit our Soil Bar for Perlite, Pumice and Orchard Bark to add to a standard houseplant mix.
TEMPERATURE
Alocasia like to be warm, keep them away from cold draughts and try not to let them sit below 18C.
HUMIDITY
All Alocasia love humidity and the Black Velvet is no exception. Use a humidifier or a pebble tray to achieve this. Grouping plants together also helps with increasing humidity.
TOXICITY
Alocasia are considered toxic to humans and animals.
General Watering Tips
Place your plant, still in its plastic nursery pot, inside the decorative pot you've chosen. This setup allows the plant to enjoy the drainage and airflow provided by the nursery pot's holes, which are beneficial for root health.
When it’s time to water, you have two options:
1. Top Watering: Take the plant, nursery pot and all, out of the decorative pot and water it over a sink. Allow the water to drain completely before placing it back in the decorative pot to prevent water build up.
2. Bottom Watering: Place the nursery pot in a shallow dish of water and let the plant absorb moisture from the bottom. This method encourages the roots to grow downward and reduces the risk of overwatering.
Both methods help keep your plant healthy by promoting good drainage and root aeration.