The impressive Alocasia micholitziana ‘frydek’ is a highly unique species of plant in an already diverse, quirky genus of tropical plants! The Alocasia frydek (a much easier name to pronounce than its full scientific name!) is an absolutely elegant plant thanks to its velvety (yes, it feels like velvet) deep, forest green leaves. It is distinctive. It is eye-catching.
Like all Alocasia, the Alocasia frydek can be a bit finicky however that is where I come in. Keep reading to become a master of Alocasia frydek care and propagation so you can fill your space with unique beauty!
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The Alocasia frydek is one of many cultivars produced by the Alocasia micholitziana that is native to the Philippines.
An Alocasia frydek’s most distinguishing feature is its fuzzy, plush, velvet leaves that give off a soft sheen in the sunlight. The shape of the leaves is very similar to that of many other Alocasia species; you will be able to identify this plant as an Alocasia thanks to its elongated spade-shaped foliage that sit atop long, arching stems. In stark contrast to the deep green, white veins pop against the darker background.
When learning to care for an Alocasia frydek, it is important to understand its natural habitat. Providing your plant with a consistent environment will keep it happy and healthy. All of this will be covered below in my Alocasia frydek care guide.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Green Velvet Alocasia, Alocasia frydek
- Scientific Name: Alocasia micholitziana ‘Frydek’
- Mature Size: 2-3 feet tall with an equally sized spread
- Sunlight: bright, indirect light
- Water: when top 2 inches of soil are dry
- Soil: well-draining, loose
- Temperature: 65°-86°F
- Propagation: division and corms
- Hardiness Zone: 9-11
- Toxicity: toxic to humans and pets
Growth Pattern and Habits
Most stores, whether brick and mortar or online, sell small, pint-sized Alocasia frydek specimens. They are usually in small pots with two to three leaves and just a few inches tall. This is great because it is more affordable and allows you to witness its growth!
Because you will likely purchase a small Alocasia frydek, patience is key. Once mature, an Alocasia frydek’s size can reach upwards of three feet but it can take anywhere from five to ten years to grow this tall. Despite the Alocasia frydek’s slow maturation, it will readily produce numerous new leaves every year.
An Alocasia frydek doesn’t need to be repotted more frequently than every two to three years. The rule of thumb is to repot once you see roots growing out the container’s drainage hole. Choose a new pot that is only one size up from the current pot
Like all Alocasias, Alocasia frydek plants produce new growth from a central bulb. Long, slender petioles (the leafstalk) arch upwards and sport a slight droop from the heavy leaves that face upwards and away from the plant. New petioles grow from the innermost part of the base of the plant.
As new petioles and leaves emerge, the older growth will begin to yellow and die off. The oldest growth is on the outside of the bundle of petioles at the base of the plant and wil