Alocasia ‘Mandalay’ is a beautifully sculptural, highly decorative aroid prized for its bold foliage, crisp variegation, and elegant growth habit. A standout member of the Araceae family, this variety is known for its distinctive heart-shaped leaves, each displaying a mesmerising blend of deep green, creamy white, and soft chartreuse tones. The variegation forms intricate, painterly patterns across the leaf surface, giving every plant a one-of-a-kind appearance.

The leaves have a glossy, slightly velvety texture and sit upright on thick, pale green petioles, creating a compact yet commanding silhouette. As the plant matures, the variegation can shift and evolve, offering collectors a dynamic display of colour and form throughout the year.

Elegant, expressive, and distinctly tropical, Alocasia ‘Mandalay’ is a perfect statement plant for interiors that need a touch of refined exotic charm.

Alocasia ‘Mandalay’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain strong, crisp variegation. It can tolerate medium light but may produce greener leaves. Avoid direct sun, as this can scorch or fade the delicate variegated areas.

Watering

Keep the soil evenly and lightly moist, allowing the top 2–3 cm to dry slightly before watering again. Avoid overwatering or letting the plant sit in water, as this can easily cause root rot. In winter, reduce watering as growth slows.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–26 °C. Avoid temperatures below 15 °C and protect the plant from draughts or sudden chills.

• Humidity: High humidity (60%+) is ideal to keep the variegation bright and the leaves healthy. A humidifier or pebble tray can be beneficial, especially in centrally heated homes.

Soil and Potting

Choose a light, airy, well-draining mix — a blend of quality houseplant soil, perlite, orchid bark, and coco coir works perfectly. Repot every 1–2 years in spring, using only a slightly larger pot each time to prevent excess moisture retention.

Feeding

Feed every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertiliser. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove yellowing, damaged, or overly old leaves at the base to maintain a fresh appearance. Wipe the glossy leaf surface occasionally to enhance its natural shine and patterning.

Growth and Maturity

A moderate grower that typically reaches 40–60 cm in height. Produces new leaves regularly in warm, bright conditions. Over time, forms a neat, upright clump with beautifully variegated foliage.

Common Issues

• Brown edges: Often due to low humidity or inconsistent watering.

• Yellow leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage.

• Green reverting leaves: Not enough light.

• Pests: Keep an eye out for spider mites in dry conditions.

Background and Benefits

Alocasia ‘Mandalay’ is a favourite among houseplant collectors for its refined tropical aesthetic and its delicate, marbled variegation. Its artistic foliage adds softness, colour, and movement to contemporary and traditional interiors alike. This variety is especially appealing to those who enjoy plants that evolve over time, with each unfurling leaf revealing new patterns and character.

Perfect for design-conscious plant lovers, Alocasia ‘Mandalay’ brings elegance, texture, and a sense of tropical luxury to any room.

Quick Care Summary

Light: Bright, indirect light; too little reduces variegation
Water: Keep lightly moist; allow top 2–3 cm to dry
Temperature: 18–26 °C; avoid cold draughts
Humidity: High humidity preferred
Soil: Airy, well-draining aroid mix
Feed: Every 2–3 weeks during growing season
Growth: 40–60 cm; compact, upright habit
Toxicity: Toxic if inggested; keep away from pets and children

Styling Tip

Showcase Alocasia ‘Mandalay’ in a decorative pot that highlights its variegation — soft white, pale sage, charcoal grey, or textured ceramic pair beautifully with its marbled leaves. Place it somewhere with bright sideways light so the creamy variegation catches the eye.