Cuprea
ALOCASIA
Today, Alocasia cuprea stands not only as a horticultural curiosity but also as a living link to the golden age of botanical exploration—its metallic leaves reflecting both the beauty of tropical evolution and the enduring human fascination with the extraordinary.
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Native to the tropical rainforests of Borneo, it was first formally described in the mid-19th century and is among the earliest documented members of the Alocasia genus. Its specific epithet cuprea—derived from the Latin for “copper”—references the plant’s distinctive leaf sheen, which can range from bronzed copper to deep green depending on lighting and maturity. Early botanical records note that A. cuprea was one of the first Alocasias exported from Borneo to Europe, where it became a prized specimen among Victorian-era collectors fascinated by tropical exotics.
The Cuprea, often referred to as the “Jewel Alocasia,” commands attention for its metallic, almost otherworldly foliage.
What distinguishes Alocasia cuprea within the Alocasia genus is its remarkable foliar texture and coloration, which appear almost metallic, giving it a sculptural presence. Mature leaves are thick and leathery, with deeply impressed venation that enhances the illusion of movement and depth. The adaxial (upper) leaf surface displays rich hues of copper, burgundy, or bronze depending on the cultivar, while the abaxial (underside) is often a striking magenta or purple, creating a vivid two-tone effect.
NXCPLANTS
Wuhoo Tropicals
NXCPLANTS
Thriving in humid, shaded environments, Anthurium sp. nov. 'DF' is not only a botanical rarity but also a coveted parent in hybrid programs. Its ability to pass on its unique coloration and form makes it a standout in the genus—an enduring legacy of one of the plant world’s more elusive and beautiful mysteries.
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