Alocasia 'Prince of Curup' - Features and Plant Care
Alocasia 'Prince of Curup', sometimes called 'Pride of Curup', is a stunning tropical houseplant with thick, leathery leaves featuring intricate embossed veins. Discovered near Curup, Sumatra, Indonesia, it gained popularity in 2021 for its vibrant foliage and exotic appearance.
Why Choose Alocasia 'Prince of Curup'?
- Unique Foliage: Dark green, textured leaves with sculpted venation.
- Exotic Origins: Native to Sumatra’s humid, subtropical climate.
- Moderate Growth: Reaches 60-90 cm in height and width.
It resembles Alocasia longiloba 'Watsoniana' but lacks a recorded inflorescence. Contains calcium oxalate—use gloves when handling.
Native Habitat and Growth
Thrives in Sumatra’s high-humidity climate (60-70%) with temperatures between 9°C and 31°C. Prefers seasonal wet and dry periods with heavy rainfall from October to May.
How to Care for Alocasia 'Prince of Curup'
→ Light Requirements
- Bright, indirect light is ideal.
- Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch.
→ Ideal Placement
- Keep in a well-lit room, away from cold drafts or heat sources.
- Best suited for areas with stable humidity.
→ Watering Needs
- Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry.
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
→ Humidity Levels
- Thrives in 60-70% humidity.
- Use a humidifier or pebble tray to maintain moisture.
→ Temperature Range
- Prefers 9°C to 31°C.
- Protect from cold drafts and avoid temperatures below 7°C.
→ Soil Mix
- Well-draining mix with slight acidity.
- Blend of coconut fibre, perlite, and orchid bark works best.
→ Repotting and Pot Choice
- Repot every 1-2 years for root growth.
- Use terracotta or breathable pots with drainage holes.
→ Fertilizing
- Feed every 4-6 weeks with balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Avoid over-fertilization to prevent nutrient burn.
→ Propagation
- Best propagated through rhizome division.
- Ensure each section has a healthy growth point.
→ Semi-Hydroponics Adaptation
- Adapts well to semi-hydroponic setups like LECA.
- Ensure roots receive oxygen and aren’t fully submerged.
→ Pruning
- Remove yellow or damaged leaves regularly.
- Use clean, sharp tools to prevent infections.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Alocasia 'Prince of Curup'
→ Root Rot and Overwatering
- Caused by excess moisture or poor drainage.
- Use well-draining soil and let the top layer dry before watering.
→ Yellowing and Wilting Leaves
- Yellowing = Overwatering or low light.
- Wilting = Underwatering or temperature fluctuations.
→ Browning Leaf Edges
- Low humidity is the main cause.
- Increase moisture levels with a humidifier.
→ Incorrect Light Exposure
- Direct sun = Leaf scorch.
- Too little light = Slow growth and drooping.
→ Pest Control
- Common pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, fungus gnats.
- Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
FAQs About Alocasia 'Prince of Curup'
→ How often should I water Alocasia 'Prince of Curup'?
- Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry.
→ Why are the leaves of Alocasia 'Prince of Curup' turning yellow?
- Overwatering or insufficient light—adjust care accordingly.
→ Is Alocasia 'Prince of Curup' safe for pets?
- No, it contains calcium oxalate, making it toxic.
→ Can Alocasia 'Prince of Curup' grow in low light?
- It prefers bright, indirect light. Low light slows growth and fades leaf color.
Extra Tips for a Thriving Alocasia 'Prince of Curup'
- Maintain stable humidity and bright, indirect light.
- During winter dormancy, reduce watering slightly.
- Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Bring a Piece of Sumatra Into Your Home!
Add Alocasia 'Prince of Curup' to your collection today! Its bold foliage and exotic charm make it a stunning centerpiece.
Alocasia 'Prince of Curup'
Alocasia 'Prince of Curup' is approximately 30 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot
