Kris plant
alocasia sanderiana
Also known as: ["Elephant Ear","Crysalis Plant"]
Overview
A striking tropical plant with large, arrow-shaped leaves and striking veining, native to Southeast Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Alocasia |
| Botanical Name: | Alocasia sanderiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with bright, filtered light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–29°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing damaged or diseased foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves; adjust for lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; avoid direct sun; place in a spot with filtered light or sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C) or sudden fluctuations.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Identify damaged leaves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or drooping due to excessive water loss and heat stress.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of Alocasia sanderiana, with ingestion causing oral irritation, drooling, and gastrointestinal distress. The calcium oxalate crystals can lead to significant discomfort and potential respiratory issues if swelling occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Alocasia sanderiana can lead to oral irritation, excessive drooling, and gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. The crystals can cause mechanical irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAlocasia sanderiana contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause severe irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract upon ingestion. The crystals physically irritate mucous membranes, leading to discomfort and potential breathing difficulties if swelling is significant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Alocasia sanderiana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Alocasia sanderiana?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week.
Q: Does Alocasia sanderiana need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
