philodendron bambino Alocasia Bambino Pink Variegata (eitjes, knolletjes)

philodendron bambino Alocasia Bambino Pink Variegata (eitjes, knolletjes)A small wonder with great potential: this tuber of the rare Alocasia Bambino Pink Variegata forms the basis for a truly unique houseplant. Those who provide the right conditions are rewarded with compact, elegant arrow shaped leaves in which soft pink variegation can become visible a rare and sought after phenomenon at Alocasia species. Origin The Bambino is a dwarf form of the well known Alocasia amazonica, and was created through selective breeding

A small wonder with great potential: this tuber of the rare Alocasia Bambino Pink Variegata forms the basis for a truly unique houseplant. Those who provide the right conditions are rewarded with compact, elegant arrow-shaped leaves in which soft pink variegation can become visible - a rare and sought-after phenomenon at Alocasia-species.

Origin

The Bambino is a dwarf form of the well-known Alocasia amazonica, and was created through selective breeding as a compact plant for enthusiasts with limited space. The Pink Variegata-variant is extremely rare. These tubers come from a variegated mother plant, which means there is a high probability of developing variegated leaves. Nevertheless, variegation remains genetic: a single tuber can also sprout completely green. Because this chance exists, the price is relatively friendly compared to already outgrown variegata-exemplars.

Characteristics

A compact Alocasia with narrow, arrow-shaped leaves and - with some luck - striking pink and light green variegation. Each tuber is unique: some plants develop rich fur patterns, others remain greener. The final leaf markings only become apparent over time.

Care

Light

After sprouting, place the tuber in a bright spot without direct sunlight. Plenty of indirect light is crucial for good leaf development and to support any variegation.

Temperature

This species likes heat. A constant temperature between 22 and 28 °C is ideal. Below 18 °C slows growth considerably.

Substrate

Use an airy, well-draining mixture based on coir, bark and sphagnum. Avoid heavy or wet potting soil.

Humidity

High humidity of at least 60% promotes healthy growth and prevents young shoots from drying out. A terrarium or nursery is ideal in the start-up phase, but make sure there is a regular fresh air supply and mild air movement.

Watering

Water moderately, preferably with demineralized water or clean rainwater. Keep the substrate slightly moist, but avoid stagnant moisture. A tuber that is too wet may rot.

Nutrition

Only when the first leaves have fully developed can you start using a very dilute foliar plant food, at most once a month.

Flowering

The Bambino Pink Variegata rarely blooms indoors. At this young stage, flowering is not yet an issue. Focus on leaf development.

Note that although this tuber comes from a variegated mother plant and thus there is a significant chance of variegation, it always remains a surprise. Sometimes completely green plants develop. This is precisely why this tuber is attractively priced - with any luck, something special will grow from it.