Alocasia Nebula
Hello fellow gardeners, If we talk about indoor plants and not mention Alocasia, It will be an injustice. The plants of genus Alocasia are one of the most loved indoor plants, Like – Alocasia Hilo Beauty, Alocasia Pink Dragon and Alocasia Nebula. Here, In this article, we will be learning about the general information and pro care tips of Alocasia Nebula.
Nebula Alocasia is native to the rainforest of Asia and Australia. At present, It is grown worldwide by many gardeners, plant lovers and horticulturists. The plant is grown for its foliage beauty. The heart shaped, dark green, glossy leaves with patterned venation gives it a unique and dazzling look. Later, the leaves develop silvery shade which makes it even prettier. It doesn’t have a true root system. Actually, The root is formed by the modification of the stem and is called, Bulb or rhizome. From the bulb, Number of stems arises which bear the heart shaped leaves at the tip (one leaf per stem). Like other Alocasias, The flowers of Nebula are small and not attractive. That’s why it is not for flower lovers.
It is a shrub that reaches up to 90 cm in height and 50 cm in width. You can grow a Nebula plant by keeping it in Hallway, laddersteps, Bedroom, Bathroom, Balcony and even in Bathroom.
Despite many preferable characters, It do have some negative aspects. First of all, It is toxic. Consumption of its leaves can cause allergies to eyes and skin. So – it is wise to keep your pets and children away from it. Moreover, This plant needs special care. If you are the one with a busy schedule or a beginner, Then – we don’t recommend growing this plant.
Also Read:- Alocasia Hilo Beauty(Rare): Size, Care And Propagation
Other Names And Varieties
Alocasia Nebula is known by different names in different parts of the world. Some synonyms are:- Silver plant, Alocasia silver nebula, Elephant ear plant.
Some varieties of this plant includes:-
- A. nebula Imperialis
- A. nebula Balun
- A. nebula Elaine
Alocasia Nebula Imperialis
It is a common type. When you say Alocasia Nebula, You are saying Imperialis. This article is all about the imperialis.
Alocasia Nebula Variegated
There is a variety with some variegation of white, yellow, grey and blue on leaves of the common nebula. It looks pretty but the price is more.
Alocasia Nebula Care
This plant needs intensive care for the best results. The caring tips are explained below:-
Soil
All alocasia including nebula requires well draining soil with the mixture of Garden Soil, Compost and Perlite in the ratio of 2:1:1
We can also add peat for better results. Perlite increases the aeration and drainage which contributes to better root development.
Light
The plant likes bright indirect sunlight. Avoid keeping under the direct sunlight as it may cause scorching of leaves. Moreover, you can place this plant in partial shade also. An east or west facing window will be a perfect place. Dark places should be avoided.
Watering
Alocasia nebula performs well in semi-moist soil. You can achieve this by frequent watering but in less volume. The watering should be done once the upper surface becomes dry. The frequency of 3 times a week in summer and 1-2 times in winter is ideal. Try to give water using a sprayer.
Also Read:- Alocasia Pink Dragon (Rare): Care And Propagation
Temperature
The alocasia genus likes warm temperatures. A room temperature of around (18-25) degree centigrade is suitable for nebula alocasia. Lower temperature causes leaves to fall and plants go into dormant phase. So, It is recommended to bring the plant indoors in winter.
Humidity
Being tropical, This plant loves humidity. Humidity of around 60% is good for this plant. To maintain this humidity, you can use a mister/humidifier or you can place the plant above the tray containing the water.
Fertilisers
This plant is not very demanding in terms of fertiliser. Adding FYM/Compost during soil mix preparation and adding some extra liquid fertiliser during spring and summer works well.
Pruning
Like every other houseplant, It also requires pruning. It is the process of removal of old, yellow, dried leaves and stems. It helps to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
Potting And Repotting
As the plant is grown in a pot, Repotting is necessary every 1.5-2 years when the plant goes into root bound condition. The new pot should be slightly larger than the original one.
Propagation
Growing/Propagation of Alocasia nebula isn’t very difficult. It can be propagated vegetatively by using its bulbs and rhizomes. The steps of propagation are listed below:-
- Select a healthy and vigorously growing plant during the month of summer or spring.
- Loose the soil around the bulb and take the plant out of pot,
- Wash the bulb with water to make the bulb look more clear.
- Now – Use a knife or separate the parts of bulb,
- Plant the bulb in new soil mix
- Keep the pot in place with filtered sunlight.
- You will see new sprouting within a month,
Common Problems
You can face some problems of pests and diseases while growing the alocasia nebula which are listed below:-
- Stem Rot
- Root Rot
- Bacterial Leaf Spot
- Aphids
- Mealybugs
- Scales
Price
The price depends on the variety, age and location. The common price range for different nebula alocasia is, (60-100)$.
Conclusion
Alocasia nebula is undoubtedly one of the best houseplants to grow. If you have good experience and time, You can grow this plant easily. However, This plant is not for beginners. This plant will surely make a special place in your heart.
