The Alocasia wentii commonly known as New Guinea shield or hardy elephant ears is a beautiful plant with lush dark green foliage and metallic purple-bronze undersides. The wentii is suited for Indoor and outdoor areas with bright indirect sunlight.
Generally, Alocasias aren't the easiest plants to care for; however, the Alocasia wentii is one of the easier Alocasias, so if you are a beginner wanting an Alocasia, try the wentii. The soil should not be allowed to dry out or overwatered - best to keep the soil moist but not soggy. They also benefit from high humidity. Alocasias are susceptible to pests - clean the leaves regularly to prevent infestations. During winter, the leaves might die back. If this happens, reduce watering and feeding and the plant might grow back in spring.
Alocasias are toxic if eaten and are skin and eye irritants. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Light requirement: Part sun/part shade and Bright indirect sunlight
Water requirement: High
Watering frequency:
Soil: Rich, consistently moist but well-draining.
Skill level: Expert
Growth rate: Intermediate
Suitable for containers: Yes
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External links to more info:
Drought tolerance: Low
Frost tolerance: Low
Wind tolerance: Low
Disease and pest susceptibility:
Mature height:
Mature width:
Suitable for shaping: No
Colour: Dark green with purple undersides
Variegation: No
Size: Large
Seasonality: Younger plants might go into winter dormancy when not in their normal climatic habitat (e.g. in Sydney).
Flowering: Yes; but primarily grown for it's foliage
Flower colour: Cream
Flower fragrant: No
Flowering season: Spring and summer
Fruit: Insignificant