Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek Tattoo’ is a rare and extraordinary cultivar of the well-known Frydek (Green Velvet Alocasia). While the classic Frydek is admired for its velvety, arrow-shaped leaves with bold white venation, the ‘Tattoo’ variety is prized for its unique patterned variegation that resembles delicate ink-like markings, giving each leaf a “tattooed” effect.

The foliage is deep emerald-green with the same velvet texture characteristic of Frydek, but irregular patches, streaks, and marbling in shades of pale green, cream, or silvery-grey overlay the surface. This unpredictable variegation ensures no two leaves are alike, making the plant highly collectable. The striking veins and velvety surface further highlight the ornamental contrast.

Compact compared to larger Alocasias, ‘Frydek Tattoo’ generally reaches 40–60 cm in height indoors, producing an upright clump of arrow-shaped leaves that are both exotic and artistic in appearance.

Alocasia ‘Frydek Tattoo’ – Care Guide

Light

Requires bright, indirect light to maintain its unusual variegation. Too little light will cause the “tattoo” patterns to fade, while harsh direct sunlight may scorch the delicate foliage.

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist in the growing season (spring–summer), watering when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows, but never allow the rootball to completely dry out.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–26°C. Avoid draughts and never expose to temperatures below 15°C.

• Humidity: High humidity (60–80%) is essential. Mist gently, use a humidifier, or place on a pebble tray to replicate tropical conditions.

Soil and Potting

Use a chunky, free-draining aroid mix – peat-free compost blended with orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the soil and provide room for tuber and root growth.

Feeding

Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks in spring and summer. Stop feeding in autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove old or yellowing leaves at the base. Wipe velvety leaves gently with a soft cloth to remove dust and preserve their texture.

Growth and Dormancy

A moderate grower, producing upright clumps of 40–60 cm. Like many Alocasias, it may enter dormancy in winter – leaves may die back to the tuber before resprouting in spring.

Common Issues

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Brown edges: Low humidity or underwatering.

• Loss of variegation: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Can attract spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs.

Background and Benefits

The ‘Frydek Tattoo’ is a modern collector’s cultivar, celebrated for its painterly variegation that appears etched into the velvety leaves. With its exotic look and rarity, it is a prized centrepiece for tropical houseplant enthusiasts and a unique twist on the much-loved Frydek.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; avoid strong direct sun

• Water: Evenly moist in growth season; reduce in dormancy

• Temperature: 18–26°C; avoid below 15°C

• Humidity: High (60–80%)

• Soil: Chunky, well-draining aroid mix

• Feed: Every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: Compact clump, 40–60 cm; velvety arrow-shaped leaves with pale “tattoo” variegation