Purple Sword Alocasia
The Exotic Houseplant You Need in Your Collection
If you’ve been on the hunt for a houseplant that stands out, the Purple Sword Alocasia (Alocasia lauterbachiana) is a must-have. With its long, sword-like leaves and striking deep purple undersides, this tropical beauty brings a dramatic, jungle-like feel to any space.
I remember the first time I saw a Purple Sword in person—it immediately caught my eye. The contrast between its deep green tops and purple undersides is mesmerizing, almost as if the leaves were painted. But beyond its looks, this Alocasia requires specific care to keep it thriving.
In this guide, I’ll break down how to care for the Purple Sword Plant, common issues, and even how to propagate it so you can grow more of these stunners. Plus, if you’re into Alocasias, you might also love the Alocasia Ivory Coast—another must-have (more on that below).
Meet the Purple Sword Alocasia
The Alocasia Purple Sword is native to Southeast Asia, where it thrives in humid, warm rainforests. It’s part of the Alocasia family, which includes over 80 species, many of which have become popular houseplants.
What Makes This Plant Special?
✅ Sword-Shaped Leaves – Long, narrow, and gracefully arching, giving it an elegant appearance.
✅ Purple Leaf Undersides – A rich burgundy-purple hue that stands out in any collection.
✅ Fast-Growing – With proper care, it can reach 3-4 feet indoors.
✅ Air-Purifying – Like most Alocasias, it helps filter indoor air.
Many plant lovers, including myself, find that this Alocasia grows faster than expected—especially in warm months with consistent care.
Caring for the Purple Sword Alocasia
Like most tropical plants, the Purple Sword has specific needs, but once you get the basics down, it’s fairly easy to maintain.
1. Light Requirements
🌞 Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. If you only have low light, you may notice slower growth or leggy stems.
💡 Pro Tip: If your Alocasia isn’t getting enough light, try a grow light to supplement.
2. Watering Needs
💧 Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Let the top 1-2 inches dry out before watering again.
I’ve learned the hard way that Alocasias hate sitting in water—too much moisture can lead to root rot fast. If you notice yellowing leaves, check your drainage!
3. Humidity & Temperature
🌡️ High humidity is a must! Aim for 60% or higher. If your home is dry, consider:
- Using a humidifier
- Placing a pebble tray under the pot
- Grouping it with other humidity-loving plants
Ideal temperatures: 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid placing it near drafts, AC units, or heaters, which can stress the plant.
4. Best Soil & Fertilizer
- Well-draining soil is key. I recommend a mix of:
- Potting soil (for nutrients)
- Perlite (for aeration)
- Orchid bark (for structure)
During the growing season (spring & summer), feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to encourage lush growth.
5. Pruning & General Maintenance
✂️ Regularly remove damaged or yellowing leaves to keep your plant healthy.
🧼 Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
How to Propagate the Purple Sword Alocasia
One of the best parts about owning an Alocasia? You can grow more of them! Unlike some plants, Alocasia does not propagate from cuttings—you’ll need to divide the plant instead.
Propagation Steps:
- Look for baby plants (offsets) – Mature Alocasias produce small plants at the base.
- Carefully separate the offset from the mother plant during repotting.
- Replant in fresh soil and keep the soil moist (not soggy) until new growth appears.
I’ve had the most success propagating in early spring when the plant is naturally starting a growth spurt.
Another Must-Have Alocasia
Alocasia Ivory Coast
If you love Alocasia Purple Sword, you might want to check out Alocasia Ivory Coast. It has a similar sword-like shape, but its leaves have a silvery-green tone with hints of pink on the stems—making it a showstopper.
Purple Sword Alocasia FAQ: Essential Care & Troubleshooting Tips
Water your Purple Sword Alocasia every 7-10 days, or when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant enters a dormant phase.
Yes, high humidity (60% or more) is ideal for Purple Sword Alocasia. If your home is dry, use a humidifier, pebble tray, or mist the plant regularly to maintain moisture levels. Low humidity can cause brown leaf edges.
Yes, Purple Sword Alocasia can grow outdoors in USDA zones 9-11 where temperatures remain above 60°F (16°C). In cooler climates, it should be kept indoors or brought inside during colder months.
Yellowing leaves are usually caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or insufficient light. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil, allow the topsoil to dry between waterings, and place it in bright, indirect light.
Yes, Purple Sword Alocasia is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep it out of reach of pets.
Indoors, Purple Sword Alocasia typically grows 3-4 feet tall, with long, narrow sword-like leaves reaching up to 2 feet in length. Given the right care, it can grow even larger.
Yes, Purple Sword Alocasia may enter dormancy in colder months, especially if temperatures drop below 65°F (18°C). During dormancy, growth slows down, and some leaves may die back. Reduce watering and avoid fertilizing until it resumes growth in spring.
The best way to propagate Purple Sword Alocasia is through division. During repotting, separate baby plants (offsets) from the mother plant, ensuring they have roots, then plant them in fresh, moist soil.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Purple Sword Alocasia?
If you love unique, bold houseplants, the Purple Sword Alocasia is a fantastic addition. With its striking foliage and tropical vibe, it’s a real statement piece.
While it requires consistent humidity and care, once you understand its needs, it’s incredibly rewarding to grow. If you’re a fan of Alocasias, be sure to check out Alocasia Ivory Coast for another stunning variety!
👉 Thinking about adding one to your collection? Start growing your own Purple Sword Alocasia today!
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