Best 5 and 2 Worst Alocasia Companion Plants

Today, I’m excited to share insights into the best and worst Alocasia companion plants, a stunning tropical beauty out of the Elephant Ears group that can transform any garden into a lush oasis. With its broad, arrow-shaped leaves and striking visual appeal, Alocasia not only adds a dramatic flair to your garden but also thrives when paired with the right companions.

The Best Alocasia Companion Plants

Purslane

Why Purslane is a Great Match for Alocasia

Purslane offers ground cover and moisture retention, which is beneficial for Alocasia’s health. Its succulent leaves and stems store water, providing a microclimate that keeps the surrounding soil moist, reducing the need for frequent watering.

• Step-by-Step Planting Guide:
  1. Locate an area that receives partial sunlight, as both Alocasia and purslane prefer similar lighting conditions.
  2. Space purslane seedlings approximately 12 inches apart from Alocasia to prevent overcrowding.
  3. Water the seedlings lightly to settle the soil around the roots.
  4. Mulch lightly around the plants to maintain soil moisture and temperature.

For additional details on purslane companion plants, click here.

Rutabaga

The Benefits of Pairing Rutabaga with Alocasia

Rutabaga, a root vegetable, can be a good companion for Alocasia by enhancing soil structure and preventing soil compaction. The deep roots of rutabaga help to aerate the soil, which improves water infiltration and root penetration for Alocasia.

• How to Plant Together:
  1. Select a location where both plants can receive filtered sunlight.
  2. Plant rutabaga seeds in rows, ensuring they are at least 15 inches away from your Alocasia plants to avoid root competition.
  3. Water the area well, keeping the soil moist but not soggy, to promote healthy growth.
  4. Add a layer of organic compost around the plants to nourish the soil.

Dive deeper into rutabaga companion planting here.

Viburnum

Viburnum and Alocasia: A Harmonious Combination

Viburnum, with its dense foliage and robust growth, provides a beautiful backdrop for Alocasia, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. The shade provided by viburnum can help protect Alocasia from harsh midday sun, while its roots do not compete aggressively for nutrients.

• Planting Viburnum and Alocasia Together:
  1. Choose a location that is well-draining and receives partial to full shade.
  2. Plant viburnum bushes at least 18 inches away from Alocasia to ensure enough space for growth.
  3. Water both plants thoroughly after planting and during dry spells.
  4. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth throughout the season.

Learn more about the benefits of viburnum companion plants here.

Nasturtium

Why Nasturtium is a Good Companion for Alocasia

Nasturtium, with its vibrant flowers and lush foliage, is an excellent companion for Alocasia. This pairing benefits from nasturtium’s natural pest repellent properties, which help to keep common garden pests away from the delicate leaves of Alocasia. The contrasting colors and textures of these two plants create a visually appealing garden space.

• Planting Instructions:
  1. Choose a spot with partial shade to mimic Alocasia’s natural under-canopy habitat.
  2. Plant nasturtium seeds directly into the soil about 10 inches away from your Alocasia to ensure adequate room for growth.
  3. Water the planting area gently, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Apply a balanced, organic fertilizer monthly to support both plants’ growth.

Explore more about nasturtium companion plants and their benefits here.

Quince Tree

Why Quince Tree is an Ideal Companion for Alocasia

The quince tree offers dappled shade, which can protect Alocasia from intense sunlight, especially in hotter climates. The height and structure of the quince tree also provide a natural windbreak, shielding Alocasia from strong winds.

• Companion Planting Instructions:
  1. Plant the quince tree at least 20 inches away from Alocasia to avoid root competition.
  2. Ensure the planting site has well-draining soil and receives partial sunlight.
  3. Water both the quince tree and Alocasia regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Mulch around the base of both plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

For more insights on planting with a quince tree, visit here.

Unfortunately, not all plants are suitable companions for Alocasia. Plants to avoid include those that require drastically different care or may introduce diseases harmful to Alocasia.

Plants to Avoid Near Alocasia

Certain plants can be detrimental to the health and growth of Alocasia, either by competing aggressively for resources or by creating an unsuitable environment. It’s crucial to recognize which companions might do more harm than good.

Eucalyptus

Why Eucalyptus is a Bad Companion for Alocasia

Eucalyptus trees, while beautiful and aromatic, are not suitable companions for Alocasia. Their rapid growth and large root systems can quickly deplete the soil of moisture and nutrients, leaving Alocasia struggling to thrive. Additionally, the allelopathic properties of eucalyptus can inhibit the growth of surrounding plants.

• Avoiding Eucalyptus:
  1. Do not plant eucalyptus near Alocasia or any other moisture-loving plants.
  2. If eucalyptus is already present, ensure Alocasia is planted at a considerable distance, with a moisture barrier in the soil if possible.
  3. Focus on enriching the soil with compost and mulch around Alocasia to maintain moisture and nutrient levels.

Walnut Trees

The Impact of Walnut Trees on Alocasia

Walnut trees produce a chemical called juglone, which is toxic to many plant species, including Alocasia. Juglone can stunt growth, lead to yellowing leaves, and ultimately weaken Alocasia. Planting Alocasia near walnut trees can result in poor growth and health due to this allelopathic effect.

• How to Mitigate Walnut Tree Issues:
  1. Avoid planting Alocasia in the vicinity of walnut trees.
  2. If walnut trees are nearby, choose a planting site for Alocasia that is outside the tree’s drip line, where juglone concentration is lower.
  3. Regularly water and fertilize Alocasia to help it combat stress and grow strong despite the challenging conditions.

Companion Planting Chart for Alocasia

To simplify your gardening endeavors, here’s a quick reference chart listing the good companions for Alocasia and summarizing why they are beneficial.

Good Companion Plants	Why They Are Beneficial
Nasturtium	Pest repellent, enhances visual appeal
Purslane	Provides ground cover, moisture retention
Rutabaga	Improves soil structure, prevents compaction
Viburnum	Offers shade, aesthetic backdrop
Quince Tree	Provides dappled shade, wind protection

By selecting the right companions, you can create a harmonious and thriving garden space that not only looks beautiful but is also eco-friendly and sustainable. Remember, the key to successful companion planting is understanding the unique needs and benefits of each plant, ensuring they complement each other for mutual growth and health.