The Jewel Alocasias: Spotlight on Alocasia reversa – The "Reverse" Blue Jewel

Among the Jewel Alocasias, Alocasia reversa stands out—its name suggests its leaf colors are the "reverse" of other Alocasias. But what does that mean? The original namer felt its color scheme was inverted compared to typical Alocasia leaves. Let's explore this unique plant and the mystery of its name.

Forward or Reverse?

Study the leaf: dark background with pale veins. Is there an Alocasia with the opposite pattern—pale background with dark veins? Using photo editing, we can create a true reverse image. Does it match any known species? It resembles Alocasia reginula (Little Queen) but with wider veins. Or perhaps Alocasia × amazonica? The negative image of A. × amazonica doesn't quite match either. The "reverse" may be more poetic than literal—imagine a plant explorer in Borneo, exhausted, scribbling "reversa" because the leaf pattern struck him as the opposite of silvery-veined Alocasias he knew.

Left: actual A. reversa leaf. Right: digitally reversed colors.

Positive and negative grayscale images of A. × amazonica.

Color-adjusted negative of A. × amazonica—still not a perfect match.

Care: Not Reverse, But Specific

A. reversa shares cultural needs with other Jewel Alocasias but has slightly thinner leaves than A. reginula or A. rugosa, tolerating a bit more moisture—yet still demands excellent root aeration. Native to Sarawak, Borneo, growing on limestone boulders in forest, its roots need maximum oxygen. Use a very well-draining mix: minimal peat, plenty of washed perlite, composted pine bark, silica sand. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing full drainage to draw fresh air into the root zone. Keep warm, bright light (no direct sun), slightly dry, and fertilize lightly.

Royal Entourage

Boost resilience with beneficial microbes: RootShield (Trichoderma T-22), endomycorrhizae, Plant Growth Activator, Companion. These help protect against pathogens.

With proper care, this Blue Jewel will thrive. Watch for upcoming articles on other Jewel Alocasias.

Photo credit: LariAnn Garner, Aroidia Research.