About Alocasia Varieties
Alocasia varieties guide searches reveal the growing passion Filipino collectors have for these dramatic tropical plants. The genus Alocasia contains over 80 species, many native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. The Philippines is home to several endemic species, giving local growers a natural connection to these stunning plants.
Alocasia are known for their bold, arrow-shaped or shield-shaped leaves with prominent veins and striking textures. They range from compact "jewel" types like black velvet to massive elephant ear varieties that dominate any garden. Below are the top 12 alocasia varieties that thrive in the Philippine climate.
1. Alocasia Zebrina (Philippine Native)
The alocasia zebrina is a pride of Philippine botany. This species is endemic to the Philippines, growing naturally in the forests of Luzon and other islands. Its defining feature is the striking zebra-patterned petioles (stems) with alternating dark green and cream bands. The arrow-shaped leaves grow up to 45 cm long on mature plants. Zebrina thrives outdoors in partial shade with regular watering. It is widely available at Philippine plant markets for 200 to 600 pesos and makes an excellent landscape accent plant.
2. Alocasia Amazonica 'Polly'
Alocasia Polly is the most popular compact alocasia in the Philippines. Its dark green leaves feature dramatic white veins and wavy edges. Despite its name, this hybrid did not originate in the Amazon but was created in a nursery. Polly stays compact at 30 to 50 cm tall, making it perfect for tabletops and shelves. It needs bright indirect light and high humidity to maintain its glossy appearance. Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries out. Polly is sensitive to cold drafts and dry air from air conditioning.
3. Alocasia Reginula 'Black Velvet'
Black velvet is a "jewel alocasia" prized for its nearly black, velvety leaves with bright silver veins. The thick, textured leaves feel like suede to the touch. This compact variety grows only 15 to 30 cm tall, making it ideal for terrariums and small spaces. Black velvet needs lower light than most alocasia and actually performs better in medium light conditions. Keep the soil slightly moist but never soggy. High humidity above 60 percent maintains the velvety leaf texture. Prices range from 200 to 500 pesos.
4. Alocasia Baginda 'Dragon Scale'
Dragon scale features thick, heavily textured leaves that resemble actual dragon scales. The leaf surface has a deep, quilted pattern with dark green colouring and lighter veins. The undersides display a pale, silvery tone with dark venation. Dragon scale stays moderately compact at 30 to 50 cm tall. It needs high humidity above 70 percent, which the Philippine climate provides naturally. Plant in a well-draining aroid mix and water when the top 3 cm of soil dries out. Prices start at 400 to 1,200 pesos.
5. Alocasia Baginda 'Silver Dragon'
Silver dragon is the lighter cousin of dragon scale. Its leaves display a stunning silvery-green colour with dark green veins and the same quilted texture. The pale colouring makes it stand out in any collection. Silver dragon stays compact and grows slowly, reaching about 30 to 40 cm tall. It prefers medium indirect light and consistent moisture. Avoid overwatering, which causes root rot in the small corm. Silver dragon has become more affordable in the Philippines, with prices dropping to 300 to 800 pesos for established plants.
6. Alocasia Micholitziana 'Frydek' (Green Velvet)
Frydek, also called green velvet alocasia, features dark green velvety leaves with bright white veins. It looks similar to Polly but with a softer, matte texture rather than a glossy finish. Frydek grows to 40 to 60 cm tall and produces new leaves steadily throughout the Philippine growing season. It needs bright indirect light and consistent watering. The velvety leaves attract dust, so wipe them gently with a damp cloth monthly. A variegated form exists but commands premium prices above 2,000 pesos.
7. Alocasia Macrorrhizos (Giant Taro / Giant Elephant Ear)
The giant taro is the largest alocasia species grown in the Philippines. Its massive leaves can reach over one metre long and 60 cm wide. Known locally as "badiang" or "biga," this species grows wild across the Philippine countryside. It makes a dramatic landscape statement in gardens and along driveways. Giant taro prefers full sun to partial shade and rich, moist soil. It grows aggressively and needs regular division to control its spread. Edible when properly cooked, though the raw plant contains irritating calcium oxalate crystals.
8. Alocasia Wentii
Wentii is a hardy alocasia with dark green upper leaves and bronze-purple undersides. The bicolour effect makes it visually interesting from all angles. Wentii grows to 60 to 90 cm tall and is more cold-tolerant than most alocasia species. It handles lower light conditions and recovers quickly from stress. This variety rarely goes dormant in the Philippine climate, producing leaves year-round. Wentii is affordable at 150 to 400 pesos and makes an excellent beginner alocasia for Filipino growers.
9. Alocasia Cuprea (Mirror Plant)
Cuprea produces some of the most unusual leaves in the plant world. The leaf surface has a metallic, coppery sheen that looks almost artificial. Under different lighting, the leaves shift between bronze, copper, and dark green. Cuprea is native to Borneo and thrives in the similar climate of the Philippines. It stays compact at 20 to 40 cm tall and grows well in terrariums. Keep humidity above 70 percent and avoid direct sunlight, which fades the metallic finish. Prices range from 300 to 700 pesos.
10. Alocasia Stingray
Stingray gets its name from the unique leaf shape that resembles a stingray with a long, pointed "tail" at the tip. The upward-pointing leaves with zebra-like stems are related to the Philippine-native zebrina. Stingray grows to 60 to 90 cm tall and makes a striking focal point in any plant collection. It needs bright indirect light and regular watering. The quirky leaf shape makes this variety a conversation starter in any home. Available for 300 to 800 pesos at Philippine plant markets.
11. Alocasia Maharani (Grey Dragon)
Maharani, also called grey dragon, is a jewel alocasia with thick, rigid leaves that display a grey-green colour and rough, sandpaper-like texture. The compact size (20 to 30 cm) and unique texture make it a collector's favourite. Maharani grows very slowly and rarely produces more than 3 to 4 leaves at a time. It needs well-draining soil and careful watering. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Prices range from 400 to 1,000 pesos in the Philippines.
12. Alocasia Lauterbachiana (Purple Sword)
Purple sword stands out with its long, narrow, sword-shaped leaves that can reach 60 cm in length. The leaves have a distinctive wavy edge and dark purple undersides. This upright grower reaches 60 to 90 cm tall and adds vertical interest to any collection. Purple sword is more sun-tolerant than most alocasia varieties and grows well outdoors in partial shade across the Philippines. It produces offsets freely, making it easy to propagate by division. Priced at 200 to 500 pesos.
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Care Tips for Alocasia in the Philippines
The Philippine climate is naturally suited to growing alocasia. Follow these tips for a healthy collection.
- Light - Bright indirect light for most varieties. Jewel types (black velvet, cuprea) prefer medium light. Avoid direct afternoon sun.
- Watering - Keep soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water when the top 2 to 3 cm of soil dries out. Reduce during the rainy season.
- Humidity - 70 to 85% humidity is ideal. Philippine conditions are naturally perfect. Group plants together for higher humidity indoors.
- Soil - Use a well-draining aroid mix: 40% potting soil, 30% perlite, 20% orchid bark, 10% charcoal. Never use heavy garden soil.
- Dormancy - Some alocasia go semi-dormant during cooler months (December to February). Reduce watering and stop fertilising until new growth appears.
- Pests - Spider mites are the biggest threat. Mist leaves regularly and spray with neem oil every 2 weeks as prevention.
- Corm care - If a plant loses all leaves, do not throw away the pot. The corm underground often sprouts new growth in 4 to 8 weeks.
Where to Buy Alocasia in the Philippines
- Cartimar Plant Market, Pasay - Wide selection of common and rare alocasia varieties at competitive prices
- Facebook groups - "Alocasia Collectors Philippines" and "Rare Aroids PH" connect buyers with trusted growers and sellers
- Shopee and Lazada - Search for specific varieties with buyer reviews and nationwide shipping options
- Provincial growers - Growers in Antipolo, Laguna, and Bukidnon often have rare varieties at lower prices than Metro Manila
- Plant expos - Regular plant fairs feature rare alocasia specimens from top Filipino collectors
For more details, visit our alocasia plant guide page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do alocasia leaves keep dying and growing back?
Alocasia plants naturally cycle through leaves, especially when adjusting to new conditions. Most alocasia species maintain only 3 to 5 leaves at a time. As a new leaf unfurls, the oldest leaf dies off. This is normal behaviour. However, if your alocasia loses all its leaves, it may have gone dormant due to cold temperatures, overwatering, or low light. Do not discard the pot. Keep the soil barely moist and wait. The corm underground often sprouts new growth within 4 to 8 weeks when conditions improve.
Are alocasia plants native to the Philippines?
Yes, several alocasia species are native to the Philippines. Alocasia zebrina is endemic to the Philippine islands and grows naturally in Luzon and Mindanao forests. Alocasia macrorrhizos (giant taro) also grows wild across the country and is used as an ornamental and food plant. The Philippines is part of the natural distribution range for the Alocasia genus, which means Filipino growers have a significant advantage in cultivating these plants compared to growers in temperate climates.
What soil mix is best for alocasia in the Philippines?
Alocasia needs a well-draining soil mix that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. The ideal mix for Philippine conditions is 40% potting soil, 30% perlite or pumice, 20% orchid bark or coco husk chips, and 10% charcoal. This combination provides the drainage and aeration that alocasia roots need while retaining enough moisture in the humid Philippine climate. Avoid pure garden soil, which compacts and suffocates the roots. Repot every 12 to 18 months with fresh mix.
