Alocasia 'Maharani' – Compact Powerhouse Among Jewel Alocasias
Alocasia 'Maharani' is a prized hybrid between Alocasia reginula and Alocasia melo, created by aroid botanist Peter Boyce at Malesiana Tropicals around 2009. Compact, resilient, and visually striking, this jewel Alocasia combines the deep tones and velvet texture of reginula with the rugged thickness of melo, resulting in a small, leathery-leafed beauty ideal for modern indoor collections.
Key Traits That Make Alocasia 'Maharani' Unique
- Parentage: Hybrid of Alocasia reginula × Alocasia melo.
- Leaf Texture: Thick, leathery, rugose (wrinkled) surface inviting closer inspection.
- Coloration: Deep grey-green upper sides; subtle red underside develops with maturity.
- Compact Size: Grows up to 30 cm tall, staying neat and manageable indoors.
- Inflorescence: Produces a green-white spathe, though believed to be infertile.
How to Grow a Healthy Alocasia 'Maharani'
Light Preferences
- Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain strong, vivid leaf texture.
- Tolerates lower light but grows slower and may lose color intensity.
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn.
Ideal Soil and Potting
- Use a breathable, well-draining mix with coconut coir, perlite, and orchid bark.
- Choose shallow pots with drainage to prevent root rot.
- Target a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
Watering Schedule
- Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry.
- Keep evenly moist but avoid soggy conditions, especially in cooler months.
Humidity and Temperature
- Thrives at humidity levels above 60%.
- Ideal temperature range: 18–26°C. Protect from drafts and sudden chills.
Feeding and Fertilizer
- Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growth with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Skip or reduce feeding in winter when growth slows down.
Common Issues with Alocasia 'Maharani' and Solutions
Yellowing Leaves
- Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.
- Fix: Adjust watering and improve soil drainage.
Browning Tips
- Cause: Low humidity or fertilizer buildup.
- Fix: Increase humidity and flush the soil periodically.
Pests to Watch For
- Spider Mites and Mealybugs: Treat early with insecticidal soap and wipe leaves clean.
- Fungus Gnats: Allow the topsoil to dry out between waterings to disrupt their breeding cycle.
Botanical Background and Name Meaning
The name "Maharani" translates to "queen" in Hindi, honoring the majestic influence of its parent Alocasia reginula ('Black Velvet'). Combining the luxurious texture of reginula with the rugged strength of melo, Alocasia 'Maharani' showcases the best traits of both worlds through heterosis, achieving greater resilience and ornamental appeal.
Secure Your Alocasia 'Maharani' Today
Experience the royal elegance of Alocasia 'Maharani'. Order now and enrich your collection with this stunning, easy-to-love jewel Alocasia.
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