Alocasia 'Maharani' – Compact Powerhouse Among Jewel Alocasias
Alocasia 'Maharani' is a celebrated ornamental aroid and collectible hybrid developed by botanist Peter Boyce at Malesiana Tropicals (Malaysia) around 2009. Crafted from A. reginula × A. melo, it blends reginula’s rich velvet tones with melo’s structural resilience. The result: a compact, leathery-leafed beauty — a true indoor tropical foliage plant and rare Alocasia hybrid prized by collectors.
● Key Traits That Make Alocasia 'Maharani' Unique
- Parentage and Habitat: Derived from Borneo species, combining traits of *A. reginula* and *A. melo*, both native to humid lowland rainforests.
- Leaf Texture: Thick, leathery, and rugose — a texture that rewards close inspection.
- Coloration: Deep grey-green topside with subtle red tones beneath on mature leaves.
- Size: Stays compact — typically 25 to 30 cm high — perfect for shelf or terrarium display.
- Flowering: Produces a green-white spathe, though often sterile in cultivation.
● How to Grow Alocasia 'Maharani'
Light
- Requires bright, indirect light to retain vivid leaf texture and avoid dullness.
- Lower light reduces growth and may fade contrast.
- Never expose to strong midday sun — risk of scorch is real.
Soil, Potting and Semi-Hydro
- Use a breathable mix: coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark.
- Shallow pots with excellent drainage help prevent root issues.
- Optimal pH: 6.0 – 6.5.
- Semi-Hydro: It adapts well to inert or semi-hydro setups when humidity and nutrients are stable.
Watering
- Water when the top 10–15 % of substrate is dry.
- Maintain consistent moisture; avoid overwatering, especially in cooler periods.
Humidity and Temperature
- Thrives above 60 % humidity — use clustering, pebble trays, or humidifiers.
- Best range: 18–26 °C; protect from drafts and dips below 16 °C.
Feeding
- Use a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks in active growth.
- Flush substrate occasionally to avoid salt build-up.
● Common Problems and Solutions
Yellow Leaves
- Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.
- Solution: Scale back water, improve substrate aeration.
Brown Tips
- Cause: Low humidity or fertilizer accumulation.
- Solution: Increase moisture, flush substrate.
Pests
- Watch for spider mites, mealybugs; wipe leaves and treat early with insecticidal soap.
- Let topsoil dry slightly between waterings to deter fungus gnats.
● Botanical Background and Etymology
The name "Maharani" means “queen” in Hindi — fitting for a hybrid that combines elegance and strength. Through hybrid vigor (heterosis), it merges velvety darkness and robust leaf structure. Like all Alocasias, it contains calcium oxalate crystals and should be kept clear of pets and children.
● FAQs – Alocasia 'Maharani'
- Is Alocasia 'Maharani' rare? Yes — it’s a boutique hybrid originally grown by Malesiana Tropicals in limited numbers.
- Can it grow in semi-hydro? Yes, it adapts well with stable nutrients and humidity.
- How large does it grow? Typically 25–30 cm in height.
- Why are my leaves dull? Likely low light or low humidity — increase indirect light and moisture.
- Is it toxic? Yes — contains calcium oxalate crystals, like all ornamental aroids.
● Learn More About Its Relatives
For deeper insight into how Alocasia 'Maharani' compares to its close relatives, read our detailed comparison article: Differences between Alocasia melo, Alocasia 'Maharani', and Alocasia 'Dragon Moon'.
● Secure Your Alocasia 'Maharani' Today
Few hybrids match Alocasia 'Maharani' for texture, rarity, and durability. Add this royal jewel Alocasia to your indoor jungle — order now and elevate your collection with confidence.
Alocasia 'Maharani'
Alocasia 'Maharani' comes in following sizes:
Baby Plant - comes in a ⌀ 6 cm pot and is approximately 10 cm tall
M - comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot and is approximately 20 cm tall
