Alocasia 'Lukiwan' – Rare Hybrid with Glossy Metallic Foliage
Alocasia 'Lukiwan' is an exceptional ornamental aroid created by Wawan Santoso at Chong Lee Nursery, Malaysia. A cross of Alocasia alba × Alocasia sinuata, it combines compact stature with thick, metallic-sheened leaves and a refined upright habit. Named for Luki Ani and Wawan, this aroid collector hybrid adds sculptural gloss and tropical refinement to any setup as an indoor tropical foliage plant.
● Why Alocasia 'Lukiwan' Deserves a Spot in Your Collection
- Unique Heritage: Purpose-bred from A. alba × A. sinuata for vigor and sheen.
- Compact Form: Reaches ~50–60 cm with neat, vertical growth for shelves and tabletops.
- Glossy Metallic Leaves: Deep emerald surface with subtle silver highlights and sculpted venation.
- Design-Friendly: Architectural posture that pairs well with minimalist interiors.
● Hybrid Story and Availability of Alocasia 'Lukiwan'
- Origin: Bred 2001–2016 by Wawan Santoso at Chong Lee Nursery, Malaysia.
- Name Meaning: A personal tribute to Luki Ani + Wawan.
- Distribution: Historically rare outside Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia; limited export for collectors.
- Toxicity: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; keep away from pets and children.
● Care Guide – How to Grow Alocasia 'Lukiwan'
Light
- Place in bright, indirect light; avoid strong midday sun.
- East or north exposure works well; supplement with a full-spectrum grow light if needed.
Water
- Water when the top 15–20 % of the substrate feels slightly dry.
- Ensure free drainage; never let water stand in the saucer.
- Use room-temperature water; if heavily treated, let it stand ~24 h before use.
Humidity and Temperature
- Optimal humidity: 60–80 %; group plants or use a humidifier to keep levels consistent.
- Best temperature range: 18–30 °C; avoid drafts and drops below 16 °C.
Soil and Feeding
- Use a loose, well-aerated aroid mix with perlite and orchid bark to keep roots oxygenated.
- Target pH: slightly acidic to neutral (≈ 6.0–7.0).
- Fertilize every 4–6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer; use modest doses and flush occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
- Semi-Hydro: Adapts well to inert or semi-hydro substrates when nutrients and warmth remain stable.
Repotting and Propagation
- Repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound; size up gradually.
- Divide offsets during repotting; each division needs a healthy root cluster.
● Common Alocasia 'Lukiwan' Problems and Fixes
Root Rot
- Cause: Overwatering or compact substrate.
- Fix: Trim damaged roots and repot into a fresh, airy mix.
Yellow Leaves
- Cause: Watering imbalance, low light, or cold stress.
- Fix: Adjust watering and move to brighter, stable conditions.
Pests
- Inspect for mites, aphids, mealybugs; wipe leaves regularly.
- Treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Use beneficial insects for biological control.
● Etymology and Story Behind Alocasia 'Lukiwan'
'Lukiwan' merges the names of breeder Wawan Santoso and his wife, Luki Ani — a living symbol of craft and partnership in Southeast Asian aroid breeding. Beyond looks, it represents thoughtful selection and enduring hybrid work.
● FAQs – Alocasia 'Lukiwan'
- Is Alocasia 'Lukiwan' rare? Yes. It was long confined to Southeast Asian collections and remains limited in export.
- Can Alocasia 'Lukiwan' grow in semi-hydro? Yes, it performs reliably if nutrients, warmth, and humidity stay consistent.
- How large does it get? Mature plants reach about 50–60 cm with broad, glossy leaves.
- Is it pet-safe? No. Like most Alocasias, it contains calcium oxalate crystals.
- What lighting works best indoors? Bright, indirect light; avoid harsh midday sun that can scorch foliage.
● Order Your Alocasia 'Lukiwan'
Few Alocasia hybrids combine verified lineage, metallic gloss, and a personal naming story. Alocasia 'Lukiwan' is a compact showpiece with real collector pedigree — limited stock, order today and elevate your indoor tropical collection.
Alocasia 'Lukiwan' (sinuata x alba)
Alocasia ‘Lukiwan’ comes in follwoing sizes:
Baby Plant – is approximately 15 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot
M – is approximately 20 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot































