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Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis' – The Noble Jewel of Philippine Rainforests


Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis' is a refined narrow-leaf jewel Alocasia native to Mindanao, Philippines. Celebrated for its elongated, sharply lobed foliage and bright silver-white veins, this rare variant delivers tropical elegance in a compact form. Loved by collectors and interior stylists alike, Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis' captures the grandeur of classic sanderiana types while remaining perfectly sized for modern indoor spaces.


● Distinctive Features of Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis'


  • Leaf Shape: Deeply lobed arrowhead leaves with narrow sinuses and elongated tips.
  • Vein Contrast: Silvery-white venation that enhances the glossy, deep-green surface.
  • Growth Habit: Upright and compact, typically 40–60 cm tall with a symmetrical form.
  • Texture: Smooth, reflective lamina giving the foliage a sculptural, metallic finish.

● Native Habitat and Background


Alocasia sanderiana originates from the humid lowland rainforests of Mindanao, thriving under filtered canopy light and high humidity near rivers and ravines. The ‘Nobilis’ form retains this architecture but in a more slender, elegant shape. Indoors, recreate its tropical habitat with steady warmth, humidity, and bright, diffused light.


● Care Guide – Growing Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis'


  • Light: Bright, indirect light maintains strong contrast; avoid harsh midday sun. See our light guide for placement tips.
  • Watering: Keep the substrate evenly moist but never soggy; allow the top 2 cm to dry between waterings.
  • Humidity: Prefers 60 % + humidity; stable moisture prevents crisping along the lobes.
  • Temperature: Ideal range 20–28 °C; protect from cold air or sudden drops below 18 °C.
  • Soil Mix: Use a chunky, breathable blend of bark, perlite, and coco coir; ratios in our substrate guide.
  • Feeding: Fertilise monthly during active growth with a diluted balanced formula.
  • Semi-Hydro: Easily transitions to mineral or semi-hydro setups with stable moisture control.
  • Repotting: Every 1–2 years or once rootbound; avoid unnecessary disturbance.

● Common Issues and Fixes


  • Drooping Leaves: Usually from underwatering or cold exposure; adjust watering and temperature.
  • Edge Browning: Often linked to low humidity—group plants or use natural moisture sources.
  • Pests: Spider mites or thrips can occur; treat promptly with insecticidal soap.
  • Winter Rest: Slight dormancy may occur in cooler months; read our dormancy article for care adjustments.

● Collector Insight and Rarity Value


The term ‘Nobilis’—Latin for “noble”—was first used in 1893 to describe a particularly elegant Alocasia sanderiana form. While not a registered cultivar, this selection is prized for its refined leaf shape and consistent traits under tissue culture propagation. Once protected under CITES, it is now freely available, making this Philippine Alocasia species accessible to modern collectors. Learn about its aroid relatives in our aroid family feature.


● Botanical Context and Name Origin


Named in honour of Henry Frederick Conrad Sander (1847–1920), the renowned German-British horticulturist who popularised tropical plants across Europe. The genus Alocasia distinguishes this group of Asian aroids from Colocasia, its close relative, derived from the prefix “a-” (meaning “not”).


● FAQs – Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis'


  • How does 'Nobilis' differ from 'Polly'? ‘Nobilis’ has longer, narrower leaves and a subtler vein pattern; ‘Polly’ is a hybrid bred for denser growth.
  • Can it handle lower humidity? It tolerates brief dips but prefers over 60 % for best leaf condition.
  • Is it pet-safe? No—contains calcium oxalate crystals and is toxic if ingested.
  • Can it grow in terrariums? Yes, if humidity and airflow remain balanced.

● Bring Home Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis' – The Noble Classic Reimagined


Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis' unites botanical heritage with modern refinement—slender, sculptural leaves, compact stature, and unmistakable tropical elegance. A true Philippine treasure for collectors and design-minded plant lovers alike. Order your Alocasia 'Nobilis' today and let this noble classic elevate your indoor collection.

Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis'

€21.00Price
VAT Included
Quantity
  • Alocasia sanderiana 'Nobilis'comes in following sizes:

    S - comes in a ⌀ 10.5 cm pot and is approximately 15 cm tall

    M - comes in a ⌀ 12 cm pot and is approximately 30 cm tall

Frequently bought together:

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