Alocasia Bambino is a cute small houseplant! Alocasia bambino is a dwarf variety of Alocasia Amazonica, which is a native of Southeast Asia. It has narrow leaves with pronounced white veins. The undersides of the leaves are burgundy. Alocasia bambino typically grows to be about 12 inches tall and wide which makes it perfect for small spaces.
Alocasia Bambino is now one of the most popular Alocasia cultivars in the world. It is easy to care for and makes a beautiful addition to any home.
How to Grow Alocasia Bambino
- Light: Alocasia bambino prefers bright indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves. If you do not have access to bright indirect light, you can supplement your plant’s light with a grow light.
- Temperature: Alocasia likes warm temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing your plant near drafts or air conditioning vents.
- Humidity: Alocasia requires high humidity to thrive. If your home is dry, you can increase the humidity around your plant by misting it regularly, placing it on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping it with other plants.
- Watering: Alocasia bambino likes moist soil, but it does not like to sit in water. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Soil: Alocasia prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. You can use a pre-made potting mix for Alocasia or make your own by mixing together equal parts potting mix, peat moss, and perlite.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize your Alocasia plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength before applying it to your plant.
- Repotting: Alocasia are fast growers and may need to be repotted every year or two. Repot your plant in the spring, using a pot that is one size larger than its current pot.
Alocasia Propagation:
Alocasia Bambino can be propagated by division or by corm
To propagate by division, remove your plant from its pot and gently divide the rhizome (underground stem) into two or more pieces. Make sure that each piece has at least one root and one leaf. Repot the divisions in individual pots and water them well.
To propagate by corm propagation, remove the corms (small tubers) from the rhizome of your plant. Plant the corms in individual pots filled with moist potting mix. Water the pots well and place them in a warm, humid location. The corms should sprout within a few weeks.
Common Alocasia Bambino problems
- Brown leaf tips: This can be caused by low humidity or overwatering.
- Yellowing leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency.
- Leaf drop: This can be caused by stress from sudden temperature changes, drafts, or overwatering.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are a common pest for Alocasia plants. Check your foliage often and treat accordingly.
Here are 10 easy-to-grow Alocasia:
- Alocasia bambino
- Alocasia Polly
- Alocasia Zebrina
- Alocasia Regal Shield
- Alocasia Lauterbachiana
- Alocasia Black Velvet
- Alocasia Dragon Scale
- Alocasia Silver Dragon
- Alocasia Stingray
- Alocasia Macrorrhiza Taro
These Alocasia varieties are all relatively easy to care for, and they can be grown indoors or outdoors in warm climates. They all require bright, indirect light, moist soil, and high humidity. However, they are not as sensitive to fluctuations in temperature or humidity as some other Alocasia cultivars.
With proper care, these Alocasia plants can thrive for many years and produce stunning foliage that will add a touch of tropical flair to any home.
Happy Gardening!