Alocasia 'Sedenii' – Rare Victorian Hybrid and Indoor Care


Alocasia 'Sedenii' is a collector’s dream — a living artifact from the Victorian era. Created in 1869 by John Seden at Veitch Nurseries, this hybrid combines the metallic shimmer of Alocasia cuprea with the elegant form of Alocasia longiloba ‘Lowii’. Its foliage is extraordinary: thick, leathery leaves in a dark, glossy green with bronze reflections, arching gracefully from strong petioles. Turn a leaf and you’ll find deep purple undersides with a satin sheen. Once celebrated at international exhibitions, including a Gold Medal at St. Petersburg in 1869, 'Sedenii' remains a sought-after heritage Alocasia that brings bold character and a rich story to any plant collection.



Why Alocasia 'Sedenii' Stands Out

Historic Legacy: One of the earliest ornamental Alocasia hybrids, widely acclaimed in the 19th century.
Exquisite Foliage: Metallic green tops, purple undersides, and strong veining for dramatic contrast.
Flower Detail: Deep purple spathes occasionally appear under ideal indoor conditions.
Size Indoors: Grows 70–120 cm tall with mature leaves reaching 30–45 cm in length.




Where Alocasia 'Sedenii' Comes From
This hybrid reflects traits from species native to Borneo and the Malay Peninsula. Its parent plants thrive in warm, humid lowland forests with steady rainfall and filtered light. Indoors, expect moderate growth when warmth, moisture, and bright indirect light are maintained. It grows from a rhizome and may slow down or enter semi-dormancy in cooler months. All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals, making it toxic if ingested — keep out of reach of pets and children.



Alocasia 'Sedenii' Care Guide

Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal; too much direct sun can scorch leaves.
Water: Keep soil evenly moist without waterlogging; allow the top layer to dry slightly.
Humidity: Aim for 60–80%; persistent dryness can cause browning edges.
Temperature: Best range is 18–27 °C; avoid cold drafts or sudden drops.
Soil: Use a loose, chunky mix with organic matter, bark, and perlite for airflow.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced liquid feed every 2–3 weeks during active growth.
Repotting: Every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container; spring is ideal.
Propagation: Best by rhizome division; ensure each piece has roots and a viable growth point.
Hydroponics: Can adapt to semi-hydro setups using mineral substrates under stable conditions.
Pruning: Remove older or damaged leaves to maintain energy for new growth.
Dormancy Note: Growth may pause in cooler months; reduce watering slightly during this phase.




Problems and Practical Fixes

Yellowing Leaves: Usually linked to soggy soil or poor aeration — check drainage and adjust watering.
Browning Tips: Low humidity or fertilizer buildup; increase ambient moisture and flush the soil.
Pest Issues: Susceptible to spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs; treat promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Limp Foliage: Often caused by inconsistent watering or root stress; inspect roots and soil health.




What Makes This Hybrid Fascinating
Few plants carry as much history as 'Sedenii'. Introduced during the height of Victorian plant fever, it set a benchmark for exotic ornamental foliage and remains one of the finest examples of early hybridization work. Understanding its rainforest ancestry explains why consistent warmth and humidity matter — these are the keys to unlocking its full potential indoors.



Name Origin and Historical Background
The genus Alocasia derives from a modified reference to Colocasia, its close relative. The cultivar name honors John Seden, a celebrated hybridizer at Veitch Nurseries. Documented in 1869, it earned top awards, including a Gold Medal in St. Petersburg and an RHS certificate, cementing its place as a botanical icon of the 19th century.



Questions Plant Lovers Ask

Is Alocasia 'Sedenii' rare today? Yes, it’s a true collector’s piece, rarely seen outside specialist collections.
How large do leaves get indoors? Expect mature leaves to reach 30–45 cm in length under good conditions.
Does its metallic sheen fade? No, provided it receives bright, indirect light and consistent care.



Secure your Alocasia 'Sedenii' today and own a living link to Victorian plant history!