{"product_id":"55-75cm-alocasia-black-stem-elephant-ear-14cm-pot","title":"55 - 75cm Alocasia Black Stem Zebrina Elephant Ear 14cm Pot House Plant","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"56\" data-end=\"442\"\u003eAlocasia ‘Black Stem Zebrina’ is an extraordinary tropical showpiece that combines the dramatic flair of jet-black stems with the bold, exotic elegance of Alocasia foliage. A member of the \u003cem data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"254\"\u003eAraceae\u003c\/em\u003e family and native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, this rare cultivar is a stunning evolution of the classic \u003cem data-start=\"378\" data-end=\"396\"\u003eAlocasia zebrina\u003c\/em\u003e — beloved for its zebra-patterned petioles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"444\" data-end=\"854\"\u003eIn \u003cem data-start=\"447\" data-end=\"469\"\u003e‘Black Stem Zebrina’\u003c\/em\u003e, the iconic striping is replaced by sleek, deep black stems that create a striking contrast against the lush, arrow-shaped green leaves. Each leaf is broad and glossy, with prominent veins that add texture and depth. The plant’s sculptural form and unique colour palette give it an almost architectural quality, making it a centrepiece in any modern interior or tropical collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"856\" data-end=\"1023\"\u003eBold, sophisticated, and unapologetically exotic, \u003cem data-start=\"906\" data-end=\"937\"\u003eAlocasia ‘Black Stem Zebrina’\u003c\/em\u003e is a living statement of tropical design — both elegant and commanding in presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1025\" data-end=\"1028\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1030\" data-end=\"1077\"\u003eAlocasia ‘Black Stem Zebrina’ – Care Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1079\" data-end=\"1090\"\u003eLight\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1091\" data-end=\"1370\"\u003eThrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves, but ensure it receives enough brightness to maintain strong growth and vibrant colour. East- or north-facing windows are ideal. Insufficient light may cause slower growth and smaller leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1372\" data-end=\"1386\"\u003eWatering\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1387\" data-end=\"1708\"\u003eKeep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels slightly dry, ensuring thorough drainage each time. During the growing season (spring and summer), maintain steady moisture. In autumn and winter, allow the soil to dry a little more between waterings as the plant’s growth slows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1710\" data-end=\"1740\"\u003eTemperature and Humidity\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1741\" data-end=\"2097\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1741\" data-end=\"1757\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prefers warmth between 18–28 °C and should be kept away from drafts or cold air. Avoid temperatures below 15 °C.\u003cbr data-start=\"1870\" data-end=\"1873\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1873\" data-end=\"1886\"\u003eHumidity:\u003c\/strong\u003e High humidity (60–80%) is essential. Mist regularly, use a humidifier, or place the plant on a pebble tray to prevent leaf crisping. Bathrooms or kitchens with bright, filtered light provide ideal conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2099\" data-end=\"2121\"\u003eSoil and Potting\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2122\" data-end=\"2426\"\u003eUse a well-draining yet moisture-retentive aroid mix — ideally a combination of peat-free compost, perlite, and orchid bark. This mimics its natural rainforest habitat, ensuring aeration and consistent moisture. Repot every 1–2 years in spring to refresh the mix and encourage healthy root development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2428\" data-end=\"2441\"\u003eFeeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2442\" data-end=\"2652\"\u003eFeed every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser. Pause feeding in autumn and winter when growth slows. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can cause tip burn or salt build-up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2654\" data-end=\"2683\"\u003ePruning and Maintenance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2684\" data-end=\"2956\"\u003eRemove any yellowing or damaged leaves near the base to maintain a tidy appearance and promote new growth. Wipe the leaves occasionally with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and showcase their deep green sheen. Rotate the plant occasionally for even light distribution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"2958\" data-end=\"2983\"\u003eGrowth and Maturity\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2984\" data-end=\"3325\"\u003eA moderate grower, \u003cem data-start=\"3003\" data-end=\"3034\"\u003eAlocasia ‘Black Stem Zebrina’\u003c\/em\u003e typically reaches 60–90 cm in height and spread indoors. It develops new leaves from its corm base, with each one growing larger and more sculptural under ideal conditions. During winter dormancy, it may temporarily lose a few leaves — this is normal and followed by new growth in spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"3327\" data-end=\"3346\"\u003eCommon Issues\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"3347\" data-end=\"3635\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3347\" data-end=\"3403\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3349\" data-end=\"3403\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3349\" data-end=\"3370\"\u003eYellowing leaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Overwatering or poor drainage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3404\" data-end=\"3456\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3406\" data-end=\"3456\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3406\" data-end=\"3422\"\u003eBrown edges:\u003c\/strong\u003e Low humidity or under-watering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3457\" data-end=\"3525\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3459\" data-end=\"3525\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3459\" data-end=\"3479\"\u003eDrooping leaves:\u003c\/strong\u003e Temperature shock or inconsistent moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"3526\" data-end=\"3635\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3528\" data-end=\"3635\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3528\" data-end=\"3538\"\u003ePests:\u003c\/strong\u003e Occasionally prone to spider mites or thrips — treat with neem oil and maintain high humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3637\" data-end=\"3640\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"3642\" data-end=\"3670\"\u003eBackground and Benefits\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3672\" data-end=\"4019\"\u003eDerived from the much-loved \u003cem data-start=\"3700\" data-end=\"3718\"\u003eAlocasia zebrina\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"3720\" data-end=\"3742\"\u003e‘Black Stem Zebrina’\u003c\/em\u003e retains its tropical grace while offering a deeper, more dramatic aesthetic. The plant’s dark petioles create a powerful contrast against its vibrant green leaves, making it a popular choice for collectors and interior designers seeking a bold, contemporary statement piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4021\" data-end=\"4268\"\u003eIn addition to its visual appeal, \u003cem data-start=\"4055\" data-end=\"4086\"\u003eAlocasia ‘Black Stem Zebrina’\u003c\/em\u003e contributes to air purification by filtering indoor toxins. Symbolically, Alocasias represent strength and resilience — fitting for a plant with such a commanding, regal presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"4270\" data-end=\"4273\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"4275\" data-end=\"4298\"\u003eQuick Care Summary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"4300\" data-end=\"4682\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4300\" data-end=\"4361\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4361\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4302\" data-end=\"4312\"\u003eLight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bright, indirect light; avoid harsh direct sun\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4362\" data-end=\"4424\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4364\" data-end=\"4424\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4364\" data-end=\"4374\"\u003eWater:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep soil evenly moist; allow top 2–3 cm to dry\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4425\" data-end=\"4473\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4427\" data-end=\"4473\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4427\" data-end=\"4443\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18–28 °C; avoid below 15 °C\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4474\" data-end=\"4505\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4476\" data-end=\"4505\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4476\" data-end=\"4489\"\u003eHumidity:\u003c\/strong\u003e High (60–80%)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4506\" data-end=\"4561\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4508\" data-end=\"4561\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4508\" data-end=\"4517\"\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Aroid mix – compost, perlite, orchid bark\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4562\" data-end=\"4608\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4564\" data-end=\"4608\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4564\" data-end=\"4573\"\u003eFeed:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 4–6 weeks in spring\/summer\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-start=\"4609\" data-end=\"4682\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4611\" data-end=\"4682\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4611\" data-end=\"4622\"\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60–90 cm tall; arrow-shaped green leaves with black stems\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4684\" data-end=\"4782\"\u003e⚠️ \u003cstrong data-start=\"4687\" data-end=\"4705\"\u003eToxicity note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Toxic to pets and humans if ingested; may cause mouth and skin irritation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"4784\" data-end=\"4787\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"4789\" data-end=\"4805\"\u003eStyling Tip\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4807\" data-end=\"5330\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"4807\" data-end=\"4838\"\u003eAlocasia ‘Black Stem Zebrina’\u003c\/em\u003e is a natural showstopper that deserves a prominent place in any room. Display it in a light, neutral, or concrete-style planter to emphasise its inky black stems and lush foliage. It pairs beautifully with silver- or pink-toned plants like \u003cem data-start=\"5079\" data-end=\"5103\"\u003ePhlebodium ‘Blue Star’\u003c\/em\u003e or \u003cem data-start=\"5107\" data-end=\"5133\"\u003eSyngonium ‘Neon Robusta’\u003c\/em\u003e for contrast. Perfect for bright living rooms, conservatories, or office spaces, this plant adds instant sophistication and tropical drama — a must-have for collectors seeking a statement piece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Plants For All Seasons","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39914086334601,"sku":"SPVV149","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0562\/5990\/3625\/files\/65_-_75cm_Alocasia_Black_Stem_Zebrina_Elephant_Ear_17cm_Pot_House_Plant.webp?v=1760047258","url":"https:\/\/www.plantsforallseasons.co.uk\/products\/55-75cm-alocasia-black-stem-elephant-ear-14cm-pot","provider":"Plants For All Seasons","version":"1.0","type":"link"}