Alocasia Venom 

A striking cultivar that emerged as a mutation of Alocasia 'Amazonica' (a hybrid of A. sanderiana × A. longiloba 'Watsoniana'), discovered by Mason Lee in South Korea. Its defining feature is the dramatically elongated, curling, fang-like drip tip that gives the cultivar its name, paired with shield-shaped leaves that mature to a pale, matte silvery-green finish with softly undulating margins, raised venation, and a lightly puckered surface. Unusually, the foliage lightens with maturity rather than darkening. Grows upright from a rhizomatous base and requires no support; subject to the dormancy typical of the genus.

• Light: Bright indirect light brings out the best matte silver finish; in lower light the plant grows but the characteristic coloration dims. Avoid direct sun which scorches the leaves.

• Soil: Chunky, well-draining aroid mix of orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir; excellent drainage and root aeration essential — root rot is the primary cultivation failure. Never over-pot.

• Temperature/Humidity: Warm temperatures between 65-82°F; below 60°F slows growth and near 50°F can trigger leaf drop or dormancy. Humidity of 65%+ is essential — tip browning is the first sign of dry air.

• Watering: Allow the top half of the medium to dry between waterings; when in doubt, underwater. Reduce during dormancy. Never waterlog.

• Fertilizer: Feed every 2-4 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength; reduce or stop during dormancy.