Alocasia nycteris image • Photo: Author Obsidian Soul• CC0
Alocasia nycteris is a striking tropical plant growing up to 1.5 meters tall with distinctive batwing-shaped foliage. It features 2-4 dark glossy green leaves with deeply undulated margins and spearhead-shaped blades measuring 20-37 cm wide. The rear lobes spread at 85-95° angles resembling outstretched bat wings, supported by striped green-and-black petioles. Its stems grow either erect or horizontally, with papery cataphylls at the base and seasonal light green spathes that develop into orange berries containing black-green seeds.
Plant Care Overview
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Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Alocasia nycteris
Light Requirements
bright indirect light
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
when top 2-3 cm of soil dries out
Humidity Needs
high humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
18-30°C (64-86°F)
Native Climate
Native to Northwestern Panay Island, Philippines
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
well-draining, rich organic mix with good aeration
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Alocasia nycteris plants
vegetative propagation via division or offsets
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Northwestern Panay Island, Philippines
moderate
1.5 m (4.9 ft) tall
perennial
Symptoms: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Toxic parts: All parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Flower Description
Light green spathe transitioning to pale yellow at tip, containing shorter spadix that develops into oblong orange berries
Fun Fact
The leaf shape inspired its scientific name from the bat genus Nycteris, with rear lobes mimicking wings at precise 85-95° angles when spread.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Alocasia nycteris
Declining wild populations due to plant collection
Membranous, wilted leaves when dry
Yellowing leaves, mushy stems
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Alocasia nycteris
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