Alocasia longiloba 'Veitchii'
(formerly Alocasia lowii 'Veitchii') 

Description

This Alocasia was previously known as Alocasia lowii 'Veitchii', and considered a separate species.  However, recently it has been reclassified as an Alocasia longiloba, along with another few species (including Alocasia lowii 'Grandis' and possibly even Alocasia watsoniania), which are now all considered to be part of the longiloba species group, and just different varieties.  

So the correct name for this is probably now Alocasia longiloba 'Veitchii', and I have also been informed it may even more correctly be known as Alocasia longiloba var. veitchii 'Argentea'.

It is distinctly different to the 'original' Alocasia longiloba, and has significantly more silver veining.  It has large arrow shaped leaves, around 1 to 1 1/2 feet long once fully grown.  The front of the leaves are a bluish green colour, with blade margins, the midrib and primary veins a beautiful silver-grey.  The backs of the leaves are eggplant purple.

It likes a reasonably shady spot (around 60 - 80% shade) in order to get the nice large leaves. 

Alocasias require continual warmth and humidity.  The soil should be rich but well drained, and the plant appreciates frequent watering (daily), especially as if grows larger.  Note however, that when the plant is young and small, too much water (particularly if the weather is cold) will rot the tuber, so be careful not to overdo it.

At a glance:

Suitable for Zones:             9 - 12 (see my Zone Hardiness Map page)

Sun requirements:             Full Sun to deep shade (up to 60-80% shade)

Moisture requirements:     Moderate to high, well drained soil

Size when fully grown:        50cm to 1 metre (1-3 feet), similar spread wide

Not frost tolerant

Suitable as an indoor and container plant

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