Alocasia 'Tiny Dancer'
 
Common Names Tiny Dancer Alocasia, Dancing Petiole Elephant Ear
 
Zones 10A–11
 
Alocasia 'Tiny Dancer' is a compact hybrid cultivar prized for its whimsical, curved petioles and upright, cup-shaped leaves. This petite aroid brings playful structure and tropical charm to interiorscapes, terrariums, and shaded patios. Its manageable size and sculptural form make it ideal for small-space collectors and tabletop displays.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, mounding; moderate growth rate
Height: 14–20 in. tall; 11–18 in. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; corm-based growth
Leaves: Cup-shaped; deep green with subtle sheen; 3–5 in. diameter
Petiole: Slender, curved; gives “dancing” appearance
Inflorescence: Rare indoors; yellow spathe with purplish center
Fruit: Not typically produced in cultivation
Ecology: Hybrid of A. brisbanensis × A. odora; selected for compact form and ornamental petiole curvature
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sun
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; allow top inch to dry between waterings
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix; ideal blend includes potting soil, coco coir, orchid bark, and perlite
Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C); protect from cold drafts
Humidity: Moderate to high; misting or pebble trays recommended indoors
Propagation: By division of corms
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and overwatering; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Ideal for interiorscapes, terrariums, and shaded patio containers. Pairs well with Calathea orbifolia, Peperomia caperata, and Fittonia albivenis for layered texture and miniature tropical compositions.