The humble cucullata, reprogrammed for drama.
Alocasia cucullata ‘Banana Split’ is a rare variegated form of Alocasia cucullata, a tropical foliage species native to Southeast Asia that’s traditionally grown as a compact, hardy houseplant. Often used as a front-door plant in feng shui traditions, the standard form is all green and all business. This one? Not so much.
The ‘Banana Split’ cultivar is a chimeric mutation, producing bold marbling and streaks of cream, lime, and yellow across glossy, heart-shaped leaves. The effect is unpredictable from leaf to leaf—some are softly brushed with pastel streaks, while others explode in high-contrast patches of variegation. It’s the kind of plant that can look like three different cultivars depending on the day.
Most likely arising from a spontaneous mutation in cultivated populations, this form is not available through tissue culture, and its variegation is inherently unstable—making every specimen a little different and highly collectible. Thanks to cucullata’s durability and compact form, ‘Banana Split’ offers a more forgiving entry into the world of variegated Alocasias.
A compact tropical aroid that thrives in indoor environments, it’s ideal for shelf displays, greenhouse benches, or anywhere you want bold color without sacrificing space or structure.
All plants ship fully rooted in aroid potting mix, never as unrooted cuttings or sphagnum props. Choose from two options:
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Exact Plant – The specific plant shown in the listing, already rooted and actively growing.
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Grower’s Choice – A rooted and healthy plant from the same genetic line as the exact plant. All selections have visible variegation, though pattern and intensity will naturally vary from leaf to leaf. Some lean marbled, others more blocky or sectoral—that's part of the genetic instability of chimeric plants, and part of the fun.
This rare houseplant is hand-selected and grown under controlled conditions—not rushed, not imported last week, and not a gamble.
Shipping Note:
Your plant will ship rooted in soil, securely packaged and stabilized. During transit, cosmetic damage may occur, including leaf yellowing, edge crisping, minor tears, or even leaf loss. These do not impact plant health and are not considered defects. Alocasias are known to drop older leaves after stress but will resume growth as long as roots are healthy and post-transit conditions remain stable. Soil may shift in transit and is easily resettled on arrival.
Alocasia cucullata ‘Banana Split’ Care Overview
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun may bleach variegation or scorch leaves. |
| Humidity | 60–80% ideal. Will tolerate 50% but thrives with higher humidity. |
| Watering | Let top 1–2" of soil dry between waterings. Avoid keeping the substrate soggy. |
| Substrate | Well-draining aroid mix (e.g., peat, perlite, bark, charcoal). |
| Temperature | 65–85°F. Protect from drafts and cold snaps; not frost-tolerant. |
| Feeding | Fertilize monthly during active growth using a diluted balanced formula. |
| Dormancy | May slow growth or drop leaves in winter or after repotting. Maintain humidity and reduce watering slightly. |
| Pests to Watch | Spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Variegated tissue is more vulnerable—inspect regularly. |