Alocasia lauterbachiana ‘Variegata’ is a striking and unusual variegated Alocasia with long, narrow leaves, dramatically serrated edges and splashes of creamy white against deep green foliage. Its upright growth and distinctive sword-like leaves give it a wonderfully architectural appearance, while the unpredictable variegation makes every leaf unique.
Scientific Name
Alocasia lauterbachiana ‘Variegata’
Common Name(s)
Variegated Purple Sword Alocasia, Variegated Purple Sword Plant
Origin
The species Alocasia lauterbachiana is native to New Guinea, where it grows in warm, humid tropical conditions.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Variegated plants need plenty of light to support their paler foliage, but avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A position close to a bright window with filtered light is ideal.
Water
Keep the soil lightly moist during the growing season, allowing the top few centimetres to dry between waterings. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as Alocasias can be susceptible to root rot. Reduce watering during autumn and winter as growth slows.
Humidity
Prefers high humidity, ideally around 60% or above. Keep away from radiators, cold draughts and other sources of dry air. A humid room or plant cabinet can help keep the foliage looking its best.
Soil
Use a rich, loose and well-draining aroid mix. A combination of houseplant compost, orchid bark and perlite provides a good balance of moisture retention, drainage and airflow around the roots.
Food
Feed every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–27°C. Protect from cold draughts and avoid prolonged temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
No. Alocasias contain calcium oxalate crystals and can cause irritation if ingested, so keep away from pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
The white areas of variegated leaves contain little or no chlorophyll, so this plant needs plenty of bright, indirect light to support healthy growth. Variegation can naturally vary from leaf to leaf, and each new leaf may emerge with a completely different pattern.
Extras
Alocasia lauterbachiana is particularly distinctive for its elongated, narrow leaves with heavily waved or serrated margins. Mature plants develop an increasingly upright, architectural shape and can become an impressive statement houseplant.
Did You Know?
Alocasia lauterbachiana is often called the Purple Sword because of its long, sword-shaped leaves and the purple tones found on the undersides and stems. The variegated form adds unpredictable cream and white markings, meaning no two plants – or even two leaves – will look exactly alike.
