Alocasia ‘Balloon Heart’ – rare compact hybrid with bold, graphic venation


Alocasia ‘Balloon Heart’ (also circulated as ‘Ballon Heart’, ‘Balloon Hearts’, ‘Heart Balloons’) is a modern tissue-culture hybrid released in South Korea in 2021. Bred from Alocasia sanderiana (Philippines) and Alocasia longiloba ‘Watsoniana’ (Borneo/Malesia), it merges sculptural leaf form, strong venation, and subtle purple undersides in a compact, tropical indoor plant prized by collectors. Learn more about the genus on our Alocasia page. Member of Araceae (aroid family).

● Distinct features of Alocasia ‘Balloon Heart’



  
Leaf form: Heart-to-sagittate blades, 18–25 cm long, thick and slightly ridged.
  
Surface  and colour: Glossy deep green with prominent pale veins and muted purple undersides.
  
Habit: Upright, clumping growth with short petioles and compact internodes.
  
Root system: Tuberous–rhizomatous; divides easily during repotting.
  
Indoor size: 40–50 cm tall and 35–40 cm wide in maturity.


● Habitat background  and functional adaptations


Both parent species are rainforest understory plants from humid, filtered-light environments. Their shared adaptations — thick lamina, pronounced venation, and moisture-tolerant roots — give Alocasia ‘Balloon Heart’ its ability to thrive in bright, diffused light and evenly moist, airy soil indoors.

● Indoor growth behaviour


This hybrid grows as a dense clump rather than a vine. Micro-story: new leaves emerge paler, then deepen into glossy green with a faint purple reverse. Growth is steady through warm months when humidity and nutrition remain constant. Offsets appear from mature rhizomes; flowering under home conditions is rare.

● Care guide – stable conditions, strong results



  
Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from harsh midday sun. Quality LED grow lights are excellent alternatives.
  
Water: Allow the top 1–2 cm of mix to dry before watering; drain fully and never leave standing water.
  
Substrate: Airy blend of potting mix, perlite, and orchid bark, optionally with mineral aggregate for structure.
  
Humidity: Maintain 50–70 %; brief dips lower than 50 % can cause tip browning.
  
Temperature: 18–25 °C; stable warmth prevents leaf stress.
  
Feeding: Balanced fertiliser (10-10-10 / 20-20-20) at low strength every 3–4 weeks during active growth.
  
Semi-hydro: Adapts perfectly to inert or mineral substrates if aeration and flushing are consistent.

Visual cue: Healthy foliage shows uniform gloss and firm texture; dull patches or limp veins usually indicate excess moisture or low light.

● Common issues and quick fixes



  
Leaf edges crisping: Raise humidity above 50 % and check watering rhythm.
  
Yellowing leaves: Common sign of overwatering; improve drainage and verify pot holes.
  
Root rot risk: Avoid oversized pots and compacted media; repot into a breathable mix.
  
Pests: Monitor for spider mites or aphids; treat early with insecticidal soap.


● Collector appeal  and styling value


A limited-release hybrid combining sanderiana structure with longiloba texture. Its bold venation and compact shape make it ideal for curated foliage displays. Pair with fine-leaf or variegated species for contrast. A simple matte pot intensifies the graphic leaf geometry. Propagated responsibly by Foliage Factory partner growers.

● Toxicity  and safety


Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion or sap contact can irritate mouth or skin. Keep away from pets and children and handle carefully during maintenance.

● Etymology  and name meaning


The genus name Alocasia contrasts with Colocasia (“not-Colocasia”). ‘Balloon Heart’ describes the inflated, heart-shaped blades of mature foliage. Created via tissue culture in 2021, it represents a new breeding generation of compact, decorative tropical aroids.

● FAQ – Alocasia ‘Balloon Heart’



  
What makes it unique? Compact habit, bold veins, and purple undersides inherited from its parents.
  
Is it beginner-friendly? Yes — forgiving once humidity and moisture are stable.
  
Will it grow under artificial light? Absolutely; bright, full-spectrum LEDs produce excellent results.
  
Why did it drop leaves after arrival? Temporary acclimation; new growth follows once settled.
  
Is it safe for pets? No, it’s toxic if ingested.


Ready to bring Alocasia ‘Balloon Heart’ home? Despite its rare pedigree, it adapts quickly once conditions remain consistent. Order now and enjoy bold venation and compact, sculptural growth in your tropical collection.