Alocasia plumbae "Metallica,' also known as 'Nigra,' is an upright Alocasia with dark green leaves with silver-purple undersides and purple veins. The petioles, or stems, are also purple. This elephant ear is ideal for your landscape or patio. Please note that elephant ears' attributes become more defined as they mature. The first picture is a more mature plant; the second picture shows one similar to what we ship, give or take a few inches or leaves.
• Height when mature: 4 to 5 feet
• Light: Full to part shade
• Soil: Rich, well-drained
• Water: Keep moist
• Zone: 9
Plant Size
A baby plant, that is 3-8 inches tall, will arrive at your home in a 3-inch-deep pot. Then, raise your new baby to maturity under your caring, green thumb.
Questions or Problems?
We have shipped thousands of plants safely to their destinations; however, please send us a picture of your plant(s) within 48 hours of arrival if you have any questions or problems. We can then assess for our Live Delivery Guarantee.
Dead Leaves?
Many sellers ship elephant ear rhizomes without leaves, but we have found a way to successfully ship with leaves. However, on occasion a leaf is damaged during shipping or some leaves die. No fear! The rhizome is still alive and healthy and will grow new leaves relatively quickly. Just repot and trim off any damaged or dead leaves.
Dormancy
In the winter, this plant generally loses its leaves and may arrive bare to you. This is totally normal and actually very healthy. Like hibernation, dormancy is an important part of the growing cycle when plants are strengthening their root systems instead of focusing on creating new growth. They are still healthy, viable plants that will begin growing new leaves in spring with more light and warmer temperatures during the day and night.
Fertilizer
Make your Alocasias and Colocasias thrive with Wellspring Gardens' premium water-soluble Elephant Ear Fuel! Once a week, use a one-gallon watering can and the amount of fuel specified below. Your elephant ears will thank you.
• Indoor potted plants: 1/4 teaspoon
• Outdoor potted plants: 1/2 teaspoon
• Outdoor landscape plants: 1 teaspoon
Cold Weather Shipping
We don’t advise shipping in freezing temperatures. Please ensure temperature lows in your area aren't under 35℉ when you order. If they are that low, just email us and we will be happy to hold your order. Also, make sure to track your package closely and retrieve it as soon as it arrives. We insulate packages bound for cold destinations. We do not, however, use heat packs.
