Alocasia watsoniana: The Giant Jewel Alocasia

Most "jewel" alocasias (like 'Black Velvet') are windowsill-sized. Alocasia watsoniana breaks the mold—leaves exceed 2 ft, with dramatic silvery veins and deep red-purple undersides. It's a jewel that thinks it's an elephant ear.

Culture: Jewel Requirements, Giant Scale

• Temp: 80s°F day / low 70s°F night
• Humidity: High
• Light: Bright, indirect
• Soil: Very well-draining

Leaves are uniquely puckered in circular patterns between veins and at the petiole attachment.

From Rarity to Tissue Culture

Once only in botanical gardens/private collections. Now available via tissue culture. Author grows two large specimens plus seedlings in a small greenhouse.

Breeding Breakthrough: Crossing with 'Borneo Giant'

Author crossed A. watsoniana × A. macrorrhizos 'Borneo Giant'—got fertile seeds! Some seedlings showed red leaf undersides (exciting trait introgression). Pathogen killed the batch, but the cross works. Repeated attempts underway.

Why Grow It?

Stunning foliage, impressive size, and breeding potential. Review the author's other Jewel Alocasia articles for culture details to maximize survival and size.

Related Jewel Articles

• Alocasia reginula (Black Velvet, Little Queen)
• Alocasia sanderiana

Image credit: LariAnn Garner