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Beskrivning
Alocasia lauterbachiana 'Mint'
History & Origins
Alocasia lauterbachiana, commonly known as the **Purple Sword Alocasia**, is native to the rainforests of Papua New Guinea and the Philippines. It is known for its elongated, **wavy-edged leaves with a deep purple underside**. This species is a part of the larger Alocasia genus, which consists of tropical plants prized for their dramatic foliage.
The **‘Mint’** variety is an extremely rare and sought-after cultivar featuring a unique **minty-green variegation** on its leaves. Unlike the standard dark green and purple coloration of the species, the 'Mint' form exhibits soft, pastel-like marbling or speckled variegation. This is due to a genetic mutation affecting chlorophyll distribution, making it more delicate and slower-growing than its non-variegated counterpart.
Because of its rarity and **limited availability in cultivation**, it has become a collector’s item for aroid enthusiasts.
Care Guide
1. Light Requirements
- Prefers **bright, indirect light** to maintain its variegation.
- Can tolerate some direct morning or evening sun but should be shielded from harsh midday sunlight.
- Too little light may cause reduced variegation, while too much direct sun may **scorch** the leaves.
2. Watering
- Water when the **top 2-3 cm (1 inch) of soil is dry**.
- Avoid **overwatering**, as Alocasias are prone to **root rot**.
- Reduce watering during winter when the plant's growth slows down.
3. Humidity
- Thrives in **high humidity (above 60%)**.
- If indoor humidity is too low, consider:
- **Using a humidifier**
- **Placing the plant on a pebble tray with water**
- **Grouping it with other plants**
- Dry conditions may cause **browning on the leaf edges**.
4. Temperature
- Prefers temperatures between **18-30°C (65-85°F)**.
- Avoid exposing it to temperatures below **12°C (54°F)**, as cold stress can cause leaf loss.
- Keep away from **cold drafts and sudden temperature changes**.
5. Soil
- Requires a **well-draining, airy mix** to prevent soggy roots. A good mix includes:
- **Orchid bark**
- **Perlite**
- **Coconut coir or sphagnum moss**
- **High-quality aroid mix or potting soil**
6. Fertilization
- Feed with a **balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20 or similar)** every **2-3 weeks during active growth** (spring and summer).
- Reduce feeding in **fall and winter** when the plant is dormant or semi-dormant.
7. Propagation
- Best propagated through **rhizome division** or **corms**.
- When repotting, check for small corms attached to the main root system.
- Plant corms in **moist sphagnum moss** or a well-draining soil mix to encourage sprouting.
8. Common Issues & Pests
- **Pests:** Watch out for **spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and thrips**—treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
- **Yellowing leaves:** Could be caused by **overwatering, poor drainage, or lack of nutrients**.
- **Crispy, browning edges:** Usually a sign of **low humidity or underwatering**.
- **Drooping leaves:** Could indicate **transplant shock, overwatering, or insufficient humidity**.
Dormancy Consideration
- Like many Alocasias, 'Mint' may enter a **dormant phase** in colder months or when exposed to low light.
- If it drops leaves, **reduce watering but keep the rhizome warm and dry**—it will likely resprout in spring.
Final Notes
Alocasia lauterbachiana 'Mint' is an **exquisite but rare** plant that requires **consistent care, warmth, and humidity** to thrive. Its **unique mint-green variegation** makes it highly desirable among collectors, but its slow growth and specific needs require patience. With proper care, this stunning Alocasia can grow into a **striking centerpiece** in any indoor plant collection.
History & Origins
Alocasia lauterbachiana, commonly known as the **Purple Sword Alocasia**, is native to the rainforests of Papua New Guinea and the Philippines. It is known for its elongated, **wavy-edged leaves with a deep purple underside**. This species is a part of the larger Alocasia genus, which consists of tropical plants prized for their dramatic foliage.
The **‘Mint’** variety is an extremely rare and sought-after cultivar featuring a unique **minty-green variegation** on its leaves. Unlike the standard dark green and purple coloration of the species, the 'Mint' form exhibits soft, pastel-like marbling or speckled variegation. This is due to a genetic mutation affecting chlorophyll distribution, making it more delicate and slower-growing than its non-variegated counterpart.
Because of its rarity and **limited availability in cultivation**, it has become a collector’s item for aroid enthusiasts.
Care Guide
1. Light Requirements
- Prefers **bright, indirect light** to maintain its variegation.
- Can tolerate some direct morning or evening sun but should be shielded from harsh midday sunlight.
- Too little light may cause reduced variegation, while too much direct sun may **scorch** the leaves.
2. Watering
- Water when the **top 2-3 cm (1 inch) of soil is dry**.
- Avoid **overwatering**, as Alocasias are prone to **root rot**.
- Reduce watering during winter when the plant's growth slows down.
3. Humidity
- Thrives in **high humidity (above 60%)**.
- If indoor humidity is too low, consider:
- **Using a humidifier**
- **Placing the plant on a pebble tray with water**
- **Grouping it with other plants**
- Dry conditions may cause **browning on the leaf edges**.
4. Temperature
- Prefers temperatures between **18-30°C (65-85°F)**.
- Avoid exposing it to temperatures below **12°C (54°F)**, as cold stress can cause leaf loss.
- Keep away from **cold drafts and sudden temperature changes**.
5. Soil
- Requires a **well-draining, airy mix** to prevent soggy roots. A good mix includes:
- **Orchid bark**
- **Perlite**
- **Coconut coir or sphagnum moss**
- **High-quality aroid mix or potting soil**
6. Fertilization
- Feed with a **balanced liquid fertilizer (20-20-20 or similar)** every **2-3 weeks during active growth** (spring and summer).
- Reduce feeding in **fall and winter** when the plant is dormant or semi-dormant.
7. Propagation
- Best propagated through **rhizome division** or **corms**.
- When repotting, check for small corms attached to the main root system.
- Plant corms in **moist sphagnum moss** or a well-draining soil mix to encourage sprouting.
8. Common Issues & Pests
- **Pests:** Watch out for **spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and thrips**—treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
- **Yellowing leaves:** Could be caused by **overwatering, poor drainage, or lack of nutrients**.
- **Crispy, browning edges:** Usually a sign of **low humidity or underwatering**.
- **Drooping leaves:** Could indicate **transplant shock, overwatering, or insufficient humidity**.
Dormancy Consideration
- Like many Alocasias, 'Mint' may enter a **dormant phase** in colder months or when exposed to low light.
- If it drops leaves, **reduce watering but keep the rhizome warm and dry**—it will likely resprout in spring.
Final Notes
Alocasia lauterbachiana 'Mint' is an **exquisite but rare** plant that requires **consistent care, warmth, and humidity** to thrive. Its **unique mint-green variegation** makes it highly desirable among collectors, but its slow growth and specific needs require patience. With proper care, this stunning Alocasia can grow into a **striking centerpiece** in any indoor plant collection.
Alocasia lauterbachiana 'Mint'
Slutar 7 mar 12:34
329 kr
Någon annan har föreslagit 290 kr.
