Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most from rare-plant collectors. Still not sure about something? Reach out anytime at info@mildtowildstudio.com.

What does "WYSIWYG" mean?

WYSIWYG stands for "what you see is what you get." Unless a listing is specifically marked Grower's Choice, the exact plant in the photos and video is the exact plant that ships to you — the same leaves, the same variegation, the same character. No surprises, no bait-and-switch.

Is the variegation guaranteed?

On established plants, you receive the exact variegation shown. On corms, variegation is never guaranteed — a corm carries the genetics of its mother plant, but nature decides how each one expresses as it grows. That uncertainty is part of the fun of raising a corm, and it's why corm listings are priced accordingly.

What is a corm, and how is it different from a plant?

A corm is a small, bulb-like storage organ harvested from the base of a mature Alocasia. It hasn't sprouted yet — think of it as the plant's "seed stage." You sprout and grow it yourself, which is a rewarding project for patient collectors and a more affordable way into rare genetics. Here's our step-by-step corm guide.

What is your Live Arrival Guarantee?

Every plant is packed with collector-level care and backed by our Live Arrival Guarantee — if something arrives damaged, reach out promptly (with photos, within the window noted at checkout) and we'll make it right. We want your plant to thrive from day one.

How do you pack and ship?

We pack every order meticulously — secured root balls, protected foliage, and seasonal heat packs when temperatures call for them — so your plant travels safely. Shipping method and timing are shown at checkout.

My Alocasia dropped a leaf (or looks sad) after arrival — is it dying?

Almost certainly not. Alocasia are dramatic travelers; a little transit stress or a dropped leaf is normal as the plant acclimates to your light and humidity. Alocasia can also go dormant, especially in cooler months — the foliage dies back while the rhizome stays alive and healthy. Keep it warm, bright, and lightly watered, and be patient. See our full guide on leaf drop and dormancy.

What soil should I use?

Reach for a chunky, airy aroid substrate that drains fast and resists compaction — many great aroid substrates contain little or no actual soil at all. We grow in and recommend our own Root-Phoria substrate; you can also build your own with bark, perlite, and other aeration media. Avoid a dense, water-holding potting mix, which is the fastest route to root rot.

Do you ship the plant in the pot shown?

Yes — for orders shipped within the U.S., your plant ships in the exact nursery pot and growing medium shown in its photos and video, so its roots stay undisturbed. (International orders may need to ship bare-root to meet import and customs requirements.) Any purely decorative display pot used only for styling isn't included unless a listing says otherwise.

Where can I buy from you besides the website?

You'll also find us live on Palmstreet, and on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. The website is where our full, always-available collection lives.

I'm new to rare Alocasia — where should I start?

Start with our Complete Alocasia Care Guide, then browse The Alocasia Collection. If you love the thrill of growing something from the start, a corm is a wonderful (and affordable) first project.