Alocasia princeps image • Photo: Photo by Jennifer Burk
Alocasia princeps, commonly called Purple Cloak, is a tropical perennial plant native to Borneo featuring large arrow-shaped (hastate) leaves up to 60 cm long. The dark green upper leaf surface displays prominent veining, while the underside exhibits a striking purple to maroon coloration. Purple petioles and dramatic foliage make it a popular ornamental plant, reaching 1-3 feet tall indoors but growing up to 2 meters in its natural rainforest habitat. Its distinctive purple-backed leaves and architectural form create a bold tropical aesthetic. Recognized for its striking V-shaped leaves that create a dramatic visual appeal, it has cultivars such as 'Purple Cloak' and 'Candy Sticks' with unique aesthetic variations.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Alocasia princeps
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light (6-8 hours daily), avoid direct sunlight
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Once weekly in summer, every other week in winter (allow soil to dry slightly between waterings)
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
65-85°F
Native Climate
Native to Borneo, Southeast Asia
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining soil rich in organic matter
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Alocasia princeps plants
Division of rhizomes or corms in spring/early summer
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Borneo, Southeast Asia
moderate
1-3 feet tall indoors
perennial
Toxic to pets
This plant has minimal air purifying properties.
Indoor Blooming
This plant rarely blooms indoors.
Fun Fact
Alocasia princeps is colloquially called the 'V-shaped elephant ear' due to its leaf morphology, though this name is not officially recognized. Additionally, the plant's corm can be processed to become edible despite raw parts being toxic.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Alocasia princeps
Yellowing leaves, mushy stems
Webbing on leaves, yellow speckling
Brown crispy leaf edges
Varieties
Different varieties of Alocasia princeps
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Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Alocasia princeps
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