Jewel Alocasia

Jewel Alocasia (Alocasia nebula), also known as imperial jewel, is a Bornean rainforest plant with silvery-blue leaves that deepen to steel grey in the middle and along the veins. It grows to about 60cm tall and 50cm wide, and the leaf backs are a warm copper-tan. It is one of the most demanding alocasias, and we would rather tell you that before you buy.

Why you'll love it

• Silver-blue foliage. Leaf colour moves from pale silver-blue at the margins to steel grey around the veins, so the plant looks metallic even on a dull day.
• Copper-tan undersides. The backs of the leaves are a warm copper, a pleasing contrast to the cool tones on top.
• A manageable size. At about 60cm tall and 50cm wide it suits a bright corner or a plant stand.
• A collector's prize. It is demanding enough that growing it well feels like an achievement.
• Straight from the rainforest. It comes from Borneo and responds when you recreate warm, humid conditions.

Where it works best

Indoor display. Put it in a favourite pot and give it bright light for at least half the day. Direct sun can scorch the leaves. Because it may drip a little harmless sap, stand it on tile or a washable surface.

Warm tropical gardens. In a frost-free tropical garden, a sheltered, shaded bed can suit it. Space plants 60cm apart.

Growing Jewel Alocasia in Australia

Position and climate. Think warm, humid rainforest with softened light. Keep it sheltered and above 15C if you can, or it may go dormant. Avoid draughts and direct sun. Outdoors it suits tropical gardens only.

Soil. A rich, moist loam that drains freely and leans slightly acid. Mixing in perlite improves drainage.

Water and feed. Water little and often, letting the mix come close to drying between drinks but not quite. Wet feet are its enemy. Mist if the air is dry, and feed every fortnight in the warmer months with a heavily diluted all purpose houseplant feed.

Pests and tidying. Inspect the leaves regularly for pests, and squish or spray as needed. Rotate an indoor pot a little each month so the plant stays even.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Jewel Alocasia as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives as a small young plant, and it can be slow to build size, so treat it as a long term project. Keep it warm, bright without direct sun and out of draughts from the first day. Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as sold out, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse elephant ears and alocasias
• Indoor exotic plants guide
• Exotic and rare plants
• Elephant ear plants in Australia: varieties and care

Common questions

Is this a good first alocasia?

No. It is considered one of the most demanding, wanting slightly acid soil, careful watering, warmth, humidity and freedom from draughts. Start with an easier alocasia if you are new to them.

How often should I water it?

Little and often, so the compost almost dries out between waterings but not completely. It dislikes wet feet, so the pot must drain freely.

Can pets be around it?

Not safely. Alocasias are toxic if eaten and the sap irritates, so keep the plant well out of reach of animals and children.