Alocasia cuprea 'Red Secret' - Essential Information and Complete Care Guide
Alocasia cuprea 'Red Secret' is a striking houseplant admired for its metallic, high-gloss foliage and deep red undertones. A unique cultivar of Alocasia cuprea, it features broad, shield-like leaves with a liquid copper-green sheen and dramatic burgundy undersides. Its compact growth and exotic presence make it a statement piece in modern interiors.
Distinctive Features

Shimmering Metallic Leaves: Copper-green, high-gloss foliage with ribbed texture.
Dramatic Undersides: Deep red to burgundy contrasts with upper foliage.
Natural Habitat: Native to humid, rocky rainforests of Borneo.

Growth & Characteristics

Size Indoors: Grows up to 60-80 cm in height, with a 40-50 cm spread.
Growth Habit: Upright, self-heading, non-vining.
Toxicity: Contains calcium oxalate crystals, toxic if ingested.

Care Guide

Placement: Warm, humid environment, away from drafts.
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun; tolerates grow lights.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Let the top 2-3 cm dry before watering.
Humidity: Requires over 60%. Use a humidifier or humidity tray.
Temperature: Maintain between 20-30°C.
Soil: Well-draining mix with orchid bark, perlite, and coconut soil.
Repotting: Repot when rootbound, ideally in a breathable terracotta pot.
Fertilizing: Balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks in the growing season.
Propagation: Best propagated by rhizome division when repotting.
Hydroponics: Thrives in semi-hydro setups like LECA.
Pruning: Trim old or damaged leaves at the base with sterilized scissors.

Common Issues & Solutions

Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering – allow soil to dry slightly before watering.
Browning Edges: Low humidity – increase moisture with a humidifier.
Leaf Curling: Underwatering, cold stress, or pests – adjust watering and inspect leaves.
Pests: Watch for spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Fungal Issues: Avoid excess moisture on leaves. Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering.
Slow Growth: Insufficient light or nutrients – move to a brighter spot or fertilize.

Additional Considerations
Alocasia cuprea 'Red Secret' stores water in its thick leaves, allowing it to withstand occasional dry spells. Mimic its native Bornean environment with consistent moisture and high humidity for best results.
Etymology & History
First classified by Karl Koch in 1861, previously known as Caladium cupreum and Alocasia metallica. "Cuprea" comes from the Latin ‘cupreus’, meaning copper, referencing its metallic sheen. 'Red Secret' was named for its deep red undersides.
FAQs

Why are my leaves drooping? Likely due to overwatering, underwatering, or low humidity.
Can it grow under artificial lighting? Yes, it thrives under strong grow lights (12+ hours daily).
How can I increase humidity? Use a humidifier or group it with other humidity-loving plants.
How often should I repot? Every 1-2 years or when rootbound.
Can I grow it in my bathroom? Yes, if indirect light is sufficient.

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