Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mirror Plant / Red Secret
IntermediateAlocasia cuprea
A Bornean Alocasia with peltate leaves showing a coppery metallic sheen and ridged veins. The undersides are deep purple, and the copper colour is strongest on young leaves. It is also sold as 'Red Secret'.
About
Alocasia cuprea is a perennial aroid native to Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak). The epithet means 'copper-coloured', referring to its peltate leaves up to 60 cm long with a coppery metallic sheen. The areas between the veins are sunken, giving a ridged surface, and the undersides are deep purple. The colour is strongest on juvenile leaves, and a greener form also exists. It has been grown in Europe since Thomas Lobb brought it to Veitch Nurseries in the 1850s; it was introduced as Gonatanthus cupreus in 1859 and as Alocasia metallica in 1860 before K.Koch united the names under A. cuprea in 1861. In Japan it is often sold as 'Red Secret'. The similarly named Episcia cupreata is an unrelated gesneriad. It is available from houseplant specialists and online shops in Japan, but is not common in general garden centres.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Mirror Plant / Red Secret
The Mirror Plant / Red Secret grows to Leaves up to 60 cm long.
Temperature & humidity for the Mirror Plant / Red Secret
The ideal temperature for the Mirror Plant / Red Secret is 20〜25℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Leaves up to 60 cm long
Temperature
20〜25℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute liquid feed in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Bright shade away from direct sun; strong light damages the metallic leaves.
Watering
Water when the surface dries and never leave water in the saucer. Keep drier in winter.
Temperature & Overwintering
Tropical and cold-sensitive. Aim for the genus optimum of about 20-25°C and keep it in a warm room away from cold windows in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining mix with organic matter. Repot in warm weather.
Propagation
Propagate from offsets or small tubers.
Pests & Cautions
Spider mites appear in dry air; overwatering causes root rot. Contains calcium oxalate; keep away from pets and children.
Mirror Plant / Red Secret FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Mirror Plant / Red Secret?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Mirror Plant / Red Secret?
The ideal temperature for Mirror Plant / Red Secret is 20〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Mirror Plant / Red Secret get?
The mature size of Mirror Plant / Red Secret is Leaves up to 60 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Mirror Plant / Red Secret?
Mirror Plant / Red Secret: watering & fertilizer — Dilute liquid feed in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Mirror Plant / Red Secret?
The price of Mirror Plant / Red Secret varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Alocasia Care Guide: Choosing Varieties, Watering, Summer Care, and Winter Dormancy
Learn the basics of Alocasia care. We explain the characteristics of popular varieties like Polly and Amazonica, proper watering and lighting conditions, heat management during summer, and overwintering methods.
Why New Leaves on Foliage Plants Are Smaller — Practical Solutions for Light, Humidity, and Nutrition
We analyze the causes behind stunted growth and smaller new leaves on foliage plants. From light environment and humidity management to fertilization strategy and root health, we explain each factor based on empirical data and introduce methods to restore new leaf size.
Spider Mite and Scale Insect Control: Practical Pest Prevention
Learn to identify spider mites and scale insects on houseplants and recognize damage signs, master practical spider mite control methods, discover effective scale insect elimination techniques, create pest-resistant environments with seasonal management, understand pesticide safety precautions, and discover early detection and prevention strategies.
Root Rot Prevention and Root Zone Regeneration Management in Foliage Plants | Soil Selection, Watering, and Early Diagnosis & Recovery Techniques
Root rot is the greatest threat to foliage plants. This article covers practical knowledge from the mechanisms of root rot development to prevention, early-stage diagnosis and treatment methods, and ensuring long-term plant health through soil and watering management.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.