Alocasia sanderiana
Alocasia sanderiana
Kris Plant
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Description
Alocasia sanderiana, the true “Kris plant,” dazzles with deep green, shield-shaped leaves etched by bold silver veins and scalloped edges. A tropical collector’s gem, it thrives in warm, humid, bright-indirect conditions and rewards good care with dramatic, architectural foliage.
Common Names
Kris PlantSander’s AlocasiaAfrican Mask (often misapplied)
Context
nativeRegion
Endemic to the Philippines (Mindanao).
usdaZones
10–12 outdoors; commonly grown indoors elsewhere.
companionPlants
Monstera deliciosa, Philodendron hederaceum, Calathea orbifolia, Maranta leuconeura, Nephrolepis exaltata (Boston fern), Fittonia albivenis
culturalUses
Primarily ornamental/collector plant; iconic in tropical displays. Wild populations are protected—source nursery- or tissue-cultured plants.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; avoid harsh midday sun. Tolerates early/late gentle sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist but not soggy; let top 1–2 inches dry. Use tepid, low-mineral water. Reduce slightly in winter.
SoilAiry, fast-draining aroid mix: coco/peat + perlite + bark + a bit of charcoal; pot with ample drainage.
FertilizerHalf-strength balanced liquid every 3–4 weeks in spring–summer; pause in low-light winter.
HumidityHigh (60–80% ideal). Use humidifier, pebble tray, or grouping; ensure airflow to prevent disease.
TemperatureWarm: 65–85°F (18–29°C). Avoid drafts and temps below 60°F (15°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitUpright, clumping aroid from corm/rhizome with dramatic sagittate leaves.
Mature SizeIndoors 1.5–3 ft tall, 1–2 ft wide; larger in ideal tropical conditions.
Growth RateModerate with warmth, bright light, and humidity.
BloomingOccasional spathe/spadix; not showy; more common in mature plants and greenhouses.
DormancyMay go semi-dormant in cool/low light; possible leaf drop with regrowth from corm in spring.
Propagation
MethodsDivision of clumps, Separating offsets/pups, Corm propagation, Seed (rare in cultivation)
DifficultyModerate—requires warmth, high humidity, and sterile technique.
Best SeasonSpring to early summer when active growth resumes.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove yellowing or damaged leaves and spent inflorescences at the base; wipe leaves to reduce dust and pests.
RepottingRepot every 1–2 years in spring when roots fill the pot; step up 1–2 inches in diameter; refresh chunky mix.
Pests & DiseasesProne to spider mites, thrips, mealybugs; watch for root rot, fungal issues, and bacterial leaf spot. Improve airflow and avoid overwatering.
ToxicityToxic if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalate). Can irritate skin/mouth; keep from pets and children.
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