Alocasia beccarii

Where the species grows

In Borneo, Alocasia beccarii grows in forest on low-elevation slopes, often among or directly on boulders and frequently over sandstone. Known sites reach roughly 850 m, with possible occurrences higher on Mount Kinabalu. The plants occupy shaded, rocky ground with little deep soil.

Growing corm-forming aroids indoors

• Light: For Alocasia beccarii, keep in bright shade or filtered light. Avoid hot direct sun; weak light slows growth and weakens the petioles.
• Watering: Let the surface and a shallow upper layer dry. Check according to pot size and keep the small root system moist, not persistently wet.
• Humidity and airflow: Aim for moderate to high humidity with gentle airflow. Avoid cold draughts and direct fans.
• Feeding: Use a complete fertiliser at a low dose sparingly while growth is active. Feed less often when growth or available light decreases.
• Leaf care: Wipe dusty leaves with a soft, barely damp cloth, supporting them from below. Check undersides for mites and thrips.

Troubleshooting Alocasia beccarii: compact textured leaves and recessed veins

The lower stem softens while the pot stays wet

A soft lower stem above wet substrate requires inspection of the roots and corm before any more water is added. Remove collapsed roots or corm tissue with a clean tool, keeping every section that remains solid. Set the remaining firm corm and roots in fresh airy substrate, using a pot only slightly wider than the surviving root system. Let the upper layer begin drying before watering again. The root-rot guide The brown-spot guide

Several compact textured leaves lose firmness

A single oldest leaf can be normal turnover when the rest of the crown stays firm. If firmness drops across several leaves, compare pot weight with the condition of the roots and corm before adding water. Compare pot weight, deep moisture and root firmness. Water a fully dry, firm root ball thoroughly; inspect soft or hollow roots in damp mix before adding water.

Inspect concealed surfaces closely, before adding more water

Use bright light and magnification around the sheltered parts of the compact textured leaves and recessed veins. Residue sits on the surface, while feeding damage on Alocasia beccarii repeats in the tissue and is more persuasive when insects, cast skins, webbing or dark deposits are also present. If the roots are firm and the mix is dry, water the entire root ball and drain it. Soft roots in damp mix at the bottom of the pot need inspection and removal of collapsed tissue, not more water.

Alocasia beccarii is toxic to pets

• Alocasia beccarii is toxic to cats and dogs.
• Chewing releases insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause immediate mouth pain, drooling and difficulty swallowing.
• Contact a veterinarian promptly after suspected chewing, especially if swelling or breathing problems occur.

A name altered from Colocasia and Italian naturalist and collector Odoardo Beccari

Alocasia was coined by altering Colocasia, the name of a related aroid genus. The epithet beccarii honours Italian naturalist and collector Odoardo Beccari.