PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect light; tolerate partial shade, avoid harsh midday direct sun that can scorch leaf margins
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots sit in standing water to prevent rot
Temperature
Thrives in 18–27°C; protect from temperatures below 12°C to prevent tuber damage and dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped with upward-curled margins forming cup-like structure; glossy dark green to bronze hue
- Stem: Thick fleshy petioles; upright, pale green to reddish-brown
- Inflorescence: Spadix enclosed in pale green spathe (rarely produced indoors)
Care Guide
Watering
Keep substrate evenly moist; mist leaves 2–3 times weekly to boost humidity
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Pause fertilization in winter when plant enters dormancy
Banana peel compost tea：Compost banana peels for 2 weeks; steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestationsPruning
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base of petioles to maintain airflow
- Trim overgrown petioles to control plant size and encourage compact growth
- Cut back all foliage to tuber level before winter dormancy in cold outdoor regions
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; calcium oxalate crystals cause oral pain, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing
Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation, swelling of lips and tongue
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental foliage; edible tubers when cooked thoroughly to break down toxic calcium oxalate crystals
