Alocasia Frydek
Deep green velvet arrowheads with crisp white veins, larger and more upright than the jewel alocasias. The classic velvet alocasia and one of the more forgiving of the group, though still a humidity plant.
Frydek is the velvet alocasia most people should start with. The leaves are the classic alocasia arrowhead in deep green velvet with white veins, on a plant that grows to a couple of feet and is less prone to sulking than Black Velvet or Dragon Scale.
A variegated Frydek exists and costs a great deal more. Same care.
Light
Bright indirect light. An east window, or a few feet from a south one. Direct sun scorches the velvet. Medium light is tolerated.
Water
Water when the top inch or two is dry, every six days or so in summer and every twelve in winter. Lightly moist in the growing season, drier in winter. Water the soil, not the leaves.
Soil and potting
A chunky aroid mix with bark and perlite. Repot every eighteen months in spring.
Feeding
A half-strength balanced feed monthly in spring and summer.
Propagation
Corms and division at repotting.
In a hot, dry home
Fifty-five percent humidity is the working minimum. Grouped, away from vents, with a humidifier in summer it does well; on an open shelf it crisps and attracts mites. It may go partly dormant in winter.
Alocasia Frydek varieties
Same care, different look. These are the named forms you will see for sale.
- Frydek Variegated
Frydek with cream and white sectors on the velvet leaves. Rare; needs bright light.
Problems and fixes
Crispy edges
Likely cause: Low humidity
Fix: Raise humidity.
Leaves yellowing and dropping in winter
Likely cause: Dormancy
Fix: Reduce water, keep warm, wait for spring.
Webbing
Likely cause: Spider mites
Fix: Shower, treat, raise humidity.
Alocasia Frydek questions
Is Alocasia Frydek easier than Black Velvet?
Somewhat. It tolerates slightly lower humidity and grows faster, which makes it a better first velvet alocasia.
Why are my Frydek leaves dying in winter?
Alocasias often go partly dormant in cooler, darker months. Water less, keep it warm, and it regrows in spring.
Is Alocasia Frydek toxic to pets?
Yes. Calcium oxalate crystals irritate the mouth.
Plants with a similar rhythm
Alocasia Dragon Scale
- Light
- Medium to bright indirect
- Water
- Weekly
- Pets
- Toxic
