Alocasia longiloba 'Purple Prince' – Rare Tropical Aroid with Striking Contrast


Alocasia longiloba 'Purple Prince' is a rare cultivated selection of Alocasia longiloba, celebrated for its metallic green leaves with silvery veins and vivid purple undersides. Each arrow-shaped blade reaches up to 60 cm, supported by soft pink petioles that highlight its refined contrast. Originally from Southeast Asia’s tropical lowlands, this cultivar translates the essence of rainforest elegance into modern indoor collections. Learn more about the genus in our Alocasia guide.

● Distinctive Traits of Alocasia longiloba 'Purple Prince'



  
Dual-tone foliage: Glossy green surface with crisp silver veins and deep violet undersides.
  
Pink petioles: Subtle rose-toned stems add sophisticated color contrast.
  
Compact form: Grows 60–90 cm tall with an upright, architectural habit.
  
Collector appeal: A limited cultivar rarely seen in standard trade, prized for its pigmentation.


● Habitat and Origin


Alocasia longiloba occurs naturally in Southeast Asia’s humid understories, thriving in filtered light, rich organic soil, and steady warmth between 20–30 °C. 'Purple Prince' is a horticultural selection bred for indoor adaptability and unique pigmentation — not found in wild populations but genetically rooted in authentic longiloba lineage.

● Detailed Care for Alocasia longiloba 'Purple Prince'



  
Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from harsh sun to prevent leaf scorch.
  
Watering: Keep substrate evenly moist; let top 2–3 cm dry before watering again (watering guide).
  
Humidity: Maintain 60–70 % RH; persistently dry air leads to brown leaf edges (humidity setup guide).
  
Temperature: Ideal range 20–28 °C; keep away from cold air or sudden temperature drops.
  
Substrate: Use a breathable aroid mix with orchid bark, perlite, and organic material for root aeration.
  
Feeding: Apply balanced liquid fertiliser every 4 weeks during active growth.
  
Propagation: Divide rhizomes or offsets when repotting; ensure each has at least one node.
  
Semi-hydro: Adapts well to mineral or inert substrates with controlled moisture retention.


● Common Issues and Fixes



  
Yellowing leaves: Usually from overwatering; improve drainage and let soil breathe.
  
Browning edges: Caused by low humidity or hard water; use rain or filtered water.
  
Leaf curl: Indicates stress from low humidity or temperature swings; stabilize conditions.
  
Pests: Watch for mites, thrips, or mealybugs; treat early with natural insecticidal soap.


● Extra Tips for Thriving Growth



  
Rotate the pot every few weeks for symmetrical leaf orientation.
  
Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to maintain sheen and respiration.
  
Repot every 12–18 months to refresh substrate and stimulate new root growth.
  
Reduce watering volume slightly in cooler months without allowing complete dryness.


● Collector Notes and Interesting Facts



  
The purple coloration is genetically fixed and unaffected by light intensity.
  
Occasionally mistaken for Alocasia × amazonica hybrids, but 'Purple Prince' retains pure longiloba genetics.
  
Described parent species Alocasia longiloba Miq. (1857) served as a genetic base for hybrids like ‘Polly’ and ‘Amazonica’.


● Etymology and Botanical Context


The name longiloba derives from Latin longus (long) and lobus (lobe), describing its elongated, arrowhead-shaped leaves. The cultivar name 'Purple Prince' references its royal purple undersides and pink petioles, distinguishing it from all other longiloba forms. It remains one of the most color-dynamic Alocasia cultivars cultivated to date.

● FAQs About Alocasia longiloba 'Purple Prince'



  
Does it need strong light to keep the color? No — the purple hue is genetic and does not fade under moderate light.
  
How often should I water? When the top layer dries slightly; avoid saturation.
  
Is it pet-safe? No, all Alocasias contain calcium oxalate crystals and should be kept away from pets or children.


● Own Alocasia longiloba 'Purple Prince'


Order Alocasia longiloba 'Purple Prince' today and experience the vivid contrast of silver, green, and royal purple — a compact Southeast Asian aroid that brings color precision and sculptural elegance to any interior space.