Alocasia sanderiana (Kris plant)

Alocasia sanderiana, Alocasia amazonica, Kris plant

Botanical names: Alocasia sanderiana, Alocasia amazonica

Common name: Kris plant

Family: Araceae

Origin: Phillippines

USDA Zone: 10-11?

Alocasia sanderiana (Kris plant) is low-growing plant, native to the Philippines and will reach a height of about 2ft. A beautiful plant with flat, V-shaped leaves, deeply scalloped along the margins. The color is shiny, jet-black, with bold white veining. An excellent species for interior, landscape or terrarium use. This plant can be grown in either partial or full shade and does best in a bog or aquatic environment. It is also suitable for planting in pots and to be used as an ornamental foliage. This plant should be grown in USDA zone 10-11.

When caring for Alocasia sanderiana, it is important to provide it with warm and humid conditions as well as an abundance of water while it is growing. During the fall months, the water requirements can be reduced and the soil should only be moistened occasionally. Great care should also be taken when planting rhizomes - the top of the rhizome should be planted above the soil line or the leaves may begin to decay. For cold regions, it is best to keep this plant in a pot so that it can be brought inside during cold weather.