Alocasia boyceana A.Hay

• Genus: Alocasia
• Botanical Background: First described by Alistair Hay in 1999 (Gardens’ Bulletin Singapore 51:9). The genus was reviewed by P.C. Boyce in 2008, clarifying species boundaries within Southeast Asia.

• Geographical Range: Endemic to the Philippines (notably Cebu)
• Environment: Thrives under high humidity levels (>70 %), consistent moisture, and shaded understory conditions beneath forest canopy.

Leaves

• Few leaves (1–3) per plant
• Blade narrowly sagittate to hasto‑sagittate
• Posterior lobes slender, about half the length of the anterior lobe
• Attachment is sub‑peltate to non‑peltate
• Bright green coloration

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• nflorescences solitary or paired on a peduncle ~20 cm long
• Spathe ~7.5 cm (lower ovoid section ~2 cm), with a lanceolate, reflexed limb
• Spadix slightly shorter than the spathe; staminate zone ~12 mm, appendix 1.5–1.7 cm long

Growth Habit

• Terrestrial herb with a short, robust stem (~2 cm diameter) arising from a corm. 
• May produce stolons that form secondary cormels

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light
• Avoid direct afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch

Watering & Humidity

• Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries
• Maintain high humidity (60–80 %) via misting or pebble trays

Soil & Potting Mix

• Use a loose, well‑draining, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5) peat‑based aroid mix, amended with perlite or orchid bark

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal range: 18–27 °C (65–85 °F)
• A balanced 10‑10‑10 fertilizer or half‑strength liquid NPK

Division and Cuttings

• Best via corm division at dormancy; separate healthy corms or bulbils formed on stolons

Seeds

• Propagation is uncommon; fresh seeds must be sown immediately and kept in warm, humid conditions for optimal germination

Typical Issues

• spider mites, aphids and mealybugs
• Root rot in poorly drained soils

Treatment Recommendations

• Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap (1–2 % potassium fatty acid salts) every 7–14 days; wipe leaves thoroughly.
• Always isolate treated plants and avoid application in bright light to prevent phytotoxicity

• New growth arises from corms, which store nutrients and can regenerate plants after dormancy
• Toxic sap contains calcium oxalate crystals; keep out of reach of pets and children

• Compact form and deeply lobed leaves lend a sculptural quality prized by aroid collectors and interior plant enthusiasts.

Wild Population Status

• Not currently assessed by the IUCN; habitat loss in Philippine rainforests could pose future risks

Market Availability

• Occasionally found through specialty aroid nurseries and online retailers; moderately sought after in cultivation