Care Guide for Two Mystery Funeral Plants: Alocasia and Dracaena

Care Guide for Two Mystery Funeral Plants: Alocasia and Dracaena

A reader received two plants from a relative’s funeral three years ago and didn’t know their identities or care needs. Photos revealed:

Plant 1: Alocasia amazonica ‘African Mask’

• Light: Bright indirect light (east/west window); no direct sun outdoors.
• Water: Keep soil moist spring–fall; water sparingly in winter, allowing soil to nearly dry.
• Humidity: High—use a room humidifier for best results.
• Temp: 65–75°F (18–24°C).
• Soil: Peat-based mix.
• Fertilizer: Half-strength 20-10-10 every 2 weeks spring–fall; none in winter.
• Propagation: Divide rhizomes in spring; keep rhizome top above soil line.

Plant 2: Dracaena reflexa ‘Variegata’ (Song of India)

• Light: Bright filtered light, no direct sun. Tolerates lower light but grows spindly.
• Water: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
• Temp: 64–77°F (18–25°C).
• Fertilizer: Bi-weekly when actively growing.
• Propagation: Stem cuttings.

The reader’s symptoms (leaf loss, pale leaves) suggest either too much water or too much sun for the Dracaena. Adjust accordingly.