Alocasia scalprum aka Alocasia Jacklyn

Alocasia scalprum is considered a challenging houseplant that requires attentive care and is best suited for intermediate to experienced plant enthusiasts. This species demands high humidity levels (60-80%), precise watering to prevent root rot, and bright indirect light. It's particularly sensitive to environmental changes, dry air, overwatering, and temperature fluctuations, making it less forgiving than beginner-friendly plants.

Alocasia scalprum is a compact species that typically reaches 2-3 feet tall when mature, with individual leaves growing up to approximately 12 inches in length. The plant exhibits a moderate growth rate and grows in a clumping form rather than spreading widely. Its compact size makes it well-suited for indoor cultivation in containers, though it can take several years to reach full maturity under optimal conditions.

Alocasia scalprum thrives in temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), which mimics its native tropical climate. The plant should never be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as cold exposure can cause stunted growth or even plant death. Avoid placing it near cold drafts, air conditioning vents, or windows during winter months, and maintain consistent warmth year-round for optimal health.

The most reliable method for propagating Alocasia scalprum is through rhizome division, ideally performed in spring or early summer. During repotting, carefully separate the rhizomes using a sterile knife, ensuring each division has at least one growth point and healthy roots. For best results, look for sections with 2-3 corms grouped together, even if only one has produced leaves, as this provides additional stored energy for establishment. Plant divisions in fresh, well-draining soil and maintain warm, humid conditions during recovery.

Repot Alocasia scalprum every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound, ideally in spring or early summer when the plant enters active growth. Choose a pot one size larger with excellent drainage, though note that this species actually prefers being slightly root-bound and often appears large relative to its pot size. Signs that repotting is needed include roots growing through drainage holes, water running straight through the pot, or the plant having completely filled its current container.

Wipe Alocasia scalprum leaves occasionally with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust accumulation, which helps the plant photosynthesize more efficiently. The large, distinctive foliage with its bullate (puckered) texture can trap dust in the crevices between veins, so gentle cleaning every few weeks is beneficial. Avoid using leaf shine products, as these can clog the pores and harm the plant's natural matte finish.

Yellow leaves on Alocasia scalprum most commonly indicate overwatering and potential root rot, as this species is particularly sensitive to wet soil. Other signs of overwatering include mushy roots and moldy soil. If you notice yellowing, immediately reduce watering frequency and check that your pot has adequate drainage. Allow the soil to dry out more between waterings, and if root rot has developed, remove the plant, trim away any mushy roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.

Brown leaf tips or edges on Alocasia scalprum typically result from low humidity, tap water chemicals, or excessive light exposure. Increase humidity using a humidifier, pebble tray, or by grouping plants together to maintain the 60-80% range this species requires. If using tap water, consider switching to filtered or distilled water to avoid mineral and chemical buildup. Too much direct sunlight can also cause scorched, brown edges along with bleached or curling leaves, so ensure the plant receives only bright indirect light.

Drooping leaves on Alocasia scalprum indicate either underwatering or overwatering. An underwatered plant displays wilted, dry leaves and dry soil, while an overwatered plant shows drooping combined with yellowing leaves, mushy roots, and soggy soil. For underwatering, slowly water until the soil is moist but not saturated. For overwatering, stop watering immediately, ensure proper drainage, and if soil is very soggy, repot with fresh well-draining soil after removing any rotted roots.

Alocasia scalprum is susceptible to common houseplant pests including spider mites, scale, mealybugs, aphids, thrips, and whiteflies. Spider mites cause webbing and stippled leaves and thrive in dry conditions—increase humidity and treat with insecticidal soap. Regular inspection is crucial for early detection, looking for visible insects, stippling on leaves, or sticky residue. Treat infestations promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap. The plant is also prone to root rot from overwatering, which is the most common disease issue for this species.

Alocasia scalprum can be grown outdoors year-round only in USDA Hardiness Zones 10a-12b, where temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C) throughout the year. Suitable regions include southern Florida, coastal California, southern Texas, and similar tropical to subtropical climates with high humidity. In cooler zones, the plant can be moved outdoors during warm months but must be brought inside before temperatures drop below 50°F. It's more commonly grown as an indoor houseplant due to its specific temperature and humidity requirements.

Alocasia scalprum requires minimal pruning, with maintenance limited primarily to removing dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut off problematic leaves at the base of the stem. This helps the plant redirect energy to healthy growth and maintains its appearance. As a naturally compact species that grows to only 2-3 feet, structural pruning is unnecessary—simply remove old foliage as needed to keep the plant looking its best.

Slow growth in Alocasia scalprum typically results from insufficient light, low humidity, inadequate fertilization, or being root-bound beyond preference. Ensure the plant receives bright indirect light (within 3 feet of a window), maintain humidity at 60-80%, and fertilize with diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. While this species has a naturally moderate growth rate and prefers being slightly root-bound, excessive overcrowding can slow growth—check if roots are severely compacted and consider repotting in spring if needed.

Alocasia Jacklyn’s native range is tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia.

Alocasia Jacklyn should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Alocasia Jacklyn loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

To ensure optimal growth, the Alocasia Jacklyn prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

No additional humidity is required for the Alocasia Jacklyn. Plants take in most of their water through their roots, not their leaves, therefore, watering the soil is the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants.

Repotting the Alocasia Jacklyn is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

During the wintertime, it is common for Alocasia Jacklyn plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.