Cucullata means "hooded" in the plant world, and with a multitude of fanciful nicknames, the one we like best is "Hooded Elephant's Ear", but "Chinese Ape" is a close runner up. Ths Alocasia is a medium-sized plant, 3' wide and tall or so at full growth (really the perfect size), in a medium green with medium-sized leaves. The leaves are really a nice big heart shape, satiny smooth textured but the surface of the leaves are really bumpy and rumply, with slightly recessed, simple main veins. When all grown up, the long, slim green stems are long enough for the leaves to nod and sway in the slightest breeze, slightly cupped and reaching slightly upwards. In Chinese medicine (Cucullata is native to Asia) the plant is used to treat snakebite and rheumatism and is considered a nice, reliable plant to use in crossing Alocasias to create exciting new hybrids. It's super easy to propagate, most plant pieces will sprout when in contact with a little damp soil. There's a flower but it's not much to look at. Believed to be lucky, it's found in many homes, keeping your good fortune flowing. This plant is just made for your place.
Quick Care Guide:
- Water - Med/High (4): Prefers more water than most, but soil can dry out periodically. Use a spray bottle to mist and increase humidity levels without soaking the soil and roots.
- Light - Medium (3): Plant prefers natural, diffused light. Can be placed in a spacious living room. Indirect light preferred. No direct sunlight on leaves.
- Difficulty - Medium (3): Not too difficult to keep happy, but does require some attention.