45 - 60cm Alocasia zebrina Siberian Tiger Elephant Ear 14cm Pot House Plant

Alocasia Zebrina 'Siberian Tiger', a striking variant of the Alocasia Zebrina, is known for its distinctive zebra-striped stems and large, arrow-shaped leaves. It's a tropical plant that adds a dramatic flair to indoor spaces. Here's a detailed care guide for this unique plant:

Description

• Appearance: This plant is notable for its large, glossy, green leaves that resemble the shape of an arrow or a shield. The most distinctive feature is its stems, which have a striking pattern resembling zebra stripes, hence the name. The 'Siberian Tiger' variant often has a more pronounced striping pattern.
• Growth Pattern: Alocasia Zebrina 'Siberian Tiger' can grow to a substantial size indoors, with leaves potentially reaching over a foot in length. It typically grows upwards and can reach several feet in height.

Care Guide

1. Light Requirements:

   • Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light can cause the plant to become leggy.
   • A location near an east or west-facing window is ideal, where it can receive filtered light.

2. Watering:

   • Water when the top inch or so of the soil feels dry to the touch. It’s important to strike a balance as both over-watering and under-watering can be harmful.
   • Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

3. Humidity and Temperature:

   • Thrives in a high humidity environment. If your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant in a naturally humid area like a bathroom.
   • Prefers temperatures between 18°C and 27°C. Protect it from draughts and sudden temperature fluctuations.

4. Soil and Fertilisation:

   • Use a well-draining potting mix, ideally one that's rich in organic matter.
   • Fertilise every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced fertilizer. Less or no fertilization is needed in fall and winter.

5. Pruning and Repotting:

   • Prune as needed to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves.
   • Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a pot only slightly larger than the previous one.

6. Pest and Disease Management:

   • Keep an eye out for pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
   • Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent most diseases.

7. Propagation:

   • Propagate by division. When repotting, you can gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growing point.

Additional Tips

• Leaf Cleaning: Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and enhance photosynthesis.
• Rest Period: Alocasia Zebrina 'Siberian Tiger' may enter a dormant period in cooler months. During this time, reduce watering and stop fertilizing until growth resumes.
• Toxicity: The plant is toxic if ingested, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

Caring for the Alocasia Zebrina 'Siberian Tiger' involves providing a warm, humid environment and avoiding extremes in watering and temperature. With the right care, this eye-catching plant can be a beautiful and exotic addition to your indoor garden.