Alocasia ‘Hilo Beauty’
 
Common Names Hilo Beauty Elephant Ear, Camouflage Alocasia, Caladium praetermissum
 
Zones 9B–11 (outdoors); Zone 7B+ with protection
Alocasia ‘Hilo Beauty’ is a rare tropical standout with marbled, camouflage-patterned foliage and bluish-black petioles. Though commonly sold as an Alocasia, it has been reclassified as Caladium praetermissum. Native to tropical Asia and Central America, this cultivar is prized for its dramatic leaf patterning and compact, upright habit. Its heart-shaped leaves feature irregular blotches of chartreuse, cream, and deep green, making it a favorite for interiorscapes, vivarium builds, and shaded patio containers.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, compact; moderate growth rate
Height: 2–4 ft. tall; 1.5–2.5 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; rhizomatous base
Leaves: Heart-shaped to arrowhead; mottled green, cream, and chartreuse; 12–24 in. long
Petiole: Slender, bluish-black to deep purple; upright and arching
Inflorescence: Rare in cultivation; pale green spathe with white spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced in container culture
Ecology: Reclassified as Caladium praetermissum; selected for foliar patterning and compact form
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to part shade; avoid harsh direct sun
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; allow top 1–2 inches to dry between waterings
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix; ideal blend includes coco coir, orchid bark, perlite, and compost
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost and cold drafts
Humidity: High (60–90%); misting or humidifiers recommended indoors
Propagation: By division of rhizomes; ensure each piece has roots and a growth node
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and overwatering; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical container gardens, vivarium builds, and shaded interiorscapes. Pairs well with Calathea ‘White Fusion’, Philodendron ‘Birkin’, and Colocasia ‘Coffee Cups’ for layered variegation and bold foliage contrast.