More bargain plants!
The two Xanthosoma Frozen Planet, pictured below, I bought from our local major hardware for just $2each. I also picked up the Lime Zinger that is half in the shot, as well. Clearly they were in the clearance section and I couldn’t resist. I’m also getting good at reviving these types of plants, so why not?
I have split the pups from the main plants and will keep one for myself and sell the rest once they have been cared for and look great again.
If you want to know how I bring these plants back, have a look at this post I made on caring for them after transport. It’s the same as rescuing them.
Shipping Elephant Ears – How to care for them after delivery.
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Xanthosoma Sagittifolum “Frozen Planet”
Frozen Planet is often labeled as an Alocasia or Colocasia. But, is actually a Xanthosoma. I first discovered this plant as an Alocasia when I first started buying plants online. It was only recently that I realised the chronic mislabling this plant is subjucted to.
The name Frozen Planet was named after it’s silvery frozen appearance.
Xanthosoma Sagittiflolium is grown in many tropical countries as a nutritional crop. Its starchy tubers, leaves and stems are full of protein and vitamins. It first left central America in the 1700s and is now grown as both a food crop and as a foilage plant by growers like myself.
Its stems are a dark black/purple colour that is very striking. Its big heart shaped leaves are green with a silver hue that gives it it’s name. Underneath, the veins of the plant continue on from the stems and are the same dark colour. The leaf is just as beutiful under as it is from above.
Origin: Central America
Size: Grows to over 1m by 1m in the right conditions.
Light: Bright indirect light.
Water: Water frequently in small amounts. I water every 3 – 5 days, weather depending. Don’t let the soil dry out, however, the soil must not hold the water either. With heavier soil, water when soil dries out on top. Do not let the plant sit in water, this will kill it fast. If the leaves start turning yellow, you need to consider that there is too much water around the roots.
Temperature: Will go dormant in cold weather and come back in the spring. Will not tolerate frost or snow and it’s best to bring the tuber inside during those conditions. They love hot humid conditions and will thrive and grow well in this climate.
Soil: Grows in most soils, however a lighter, airy soil is best. An Aroid Mix is best. Heavier soils will hold water and make the plant prone to root rot.
Fertiliser: Weakly, Weekly! Small amounts on a weekly basis. I use a combo of slow release fertiliser and a plant food/seaweed liquid feed at quarter strength on a weekly basis. Give extra when new leaves or flowers are developing as they are heavy feeders during this time.
Pests: Spider Mites are an issue, especially when they are in hot, dry conditions. Otherwise these are a very hardy plant.
Extra Info: Turn the plant weekly to avoid the plant leaning towards more light.
Thanks for reading and happy growing. Xx
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