Alocasia micholitziana 'Green Velvet' - Information & Care Guide
Velvety dark green leaves with striking white veins make Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ an eye-catching houseplant. This sought-after Alocasia cultivar features a luxurious matte foliage texture, mimicking soft velvet. Its elongated, arrow-shaped leaves with gently undulating edges create a striking contrast against its white venation. Unlike some Alocasia species with silvery margins, ‘Green Velvet’ stands out with pure deep green foliage and sharp, bright veins. A compact yet bold statement plant, it adds an exotic and elegant touch to any indoor space. Perfect for plant lovers who appreciate bold leaf patterns and unique textures.
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ - Key Features & Benefits
- Deep green, velvety foliage with a striking matte finish
- Pronounced white veins that enhance contrast and structure
- Compact, upright growth, making it ideal for small indoor spaces
- Fast-growing plant, producing new leaves regularly in optimal conditions
- Thrives in humid environments, adapting well to indoor humidity levels
- Suitable for semi-hydroponics with inert substrates and passive hydroponic setups
Alocasia micholitziana - Natural Habitat & Growth Conditions
Native to the tropical forests of Luzon, Philippines, Alocasia micholitziana thrives in warm, humid conditions. It is naturally found in dense forest understories, where it grows at elevations between 1,200–1,500 meters. The region has a humid climate (60–70%), with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 31°C and annual rainfall of 1,200 mm.
Indoors, Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ typically grows to 40 cm tall with a 30 cm spread, developing an upright growth habit supported by sturdy petioles.
Toxicity: Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet' plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ - Care Requirements
Placement: Prefers a bright, warm spot with consistent humidity. Keep away from cold drafts.
Light: Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ hrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.
Watering: Maintain even soil moisture, allowing the top 2–3 cm to dry slightly between waterings.
Humidity: Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ prefers humidity levels above 60%. If dry, use a humidifier or group plants together.
Temperature: Ideal range is 18°C to 27°C. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C.
Soil: Requires a well-draining, organic-rich mix. A blend of peat, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal.
Pot & Repotting: Use a pot with drainage holes. Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks during active growth.
Propagation: Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ is best propagated by division of rhizomes. Separate offsets and plant in fresh soil.
Semi-Hydroponics: Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ can thrive in inert growing media and passive hydroponic setups, with controlled moisture levels.
Pruning: Remove old, yellowing, or damaged leaves to encourage new, healthy growth.
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ - Common Problems & Solutions:
Pests: Susceptible to spider mites, thrips, fungus gnats, and mealybugs. Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Root rot? Ensure soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Yellowing leaves? May indicate overwatering, low humidity, or nutrient deficiencies.
Brown leaf edges? A sign of dry air—increase humidity levels.
Drooping leaves? Possible causes include underwatering, temperature stress, or repotting shock. If leaves begin to droop, a stake can provide support until they 'feel' stronger and can support themselves.
Fungal issues: Improve airflow and avoid getting leaves wet when watering.
Slow growth? Increase light exposure, humidity, and fertilizing frequency.
Leggy appearance? Move to a brighter location to encourage compact growth.
Additional Growing Tips for Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’
This Alocasia benefits from stable humidity and warm conditions. Rotate the plant regularly to promote even growth. It is sensitive to tap water minerals, so using filtered or distilled water can prevent leaf spotting. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust, improving photosynthesis and reducing pest risks.
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ - Name Origin & History
The species name micholitziana honors Wilhelm Micholitz, a German botanist who collected this plant in Luzon, Philippines. First documented in Curtis’ Botanical Magazine (1913), it is closely related to Alocasia sanderiana, but has darker green leaves and lacks silver margins. Often mistaken for Alocasia ‘Frydek’, botanical precedence confirms ‘Green Velvet’ as its correct cultivar name, while 'Frydek' is reserved for the variegated cultivars.
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ - Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ grow in low light? No, it needs bright, indirect light. In dim conditions, growth slows and leaves become smaller.
2. How do I prevent root rot? Use well-draining soil, a pot with drainage holes, and avoid overwatering.
3. Is Alocasia ‘Green Velvet’ beginner-friendly? Yes, but it requires consistent humidity and moisture levels. Best for those willing to maintain ideal conditions.
4. Can I grow Alocasia ‘Green Velvet’ in a self-watering pot? Yes, it adapts well to semi-hydroponics, with inert substrates and special fertilizers.
5. How do I increase humidity for my Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’? Use a humidifier, place near other plants, or keep it in a plant cabinet.
Order Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’ Today!
Enhance your indoor space with the striking foliage of Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green Velvet’. Order now and enjoy this luxurious, velvety houseplant in your home!
Alocasia micholitziana ‘Green velvet’ (‘Maxkowskii')
Alocasia micholitziana 'Green velvet' aka ‘Maxkowskii’ comes in following sizes:
plug - ⌀ 2 cm, is ca.10 cm tall
S - is ca.15 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 10.5 cm ⌀pot
M - is ca. 30cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot
XL - is ca. 60cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 19 cm pot