Xanthosoma atrovirens ‘Albomarginata’ (Xanthosoma ‘Mickey Mouse’)

Xanthosoma ‘Mickey Mouse’ is a wonderfully quirky tropical aroid prized for its uniquely shaped foliage and unpredictable variegation. Its broad, arrow-shaped leaves feature irregular lobes and curled edges that give the plant its playful “Mickey Mouse” appearance, while splashes and margins of creamy white, pale yellow, and green make every leaf a little different.

Key Features:

Mickey Mouse grows from an underground rhizome and produces individual upright leaf stalks rather than climbing or trailing. Under warm, bright conditions it can develop into a substantial foliage plant. Growth is strongest during the warmer months, and plants may slow down considerably or even enter dormancy during cooler, darker conditions. 

Pet-Friendliness

Toxic to pets – Contains calcium oxalate crystals which can be harmful if ingested by cats or dogs. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Care Instructions

Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Plenty of light helps support healthy growth and attractive variegation, but prolonged harsh direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, particularly the lighter portions. Gentle morning or late-afternoon sun is generally better tolerated. 

Water: Water when the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) of soil has dried. Mickey Mouse prefers consistent moisture while actively growing and does not enjoy being allowed to dry out completely. However, avoid waterlogged soil or allowing the pot to sit in standing water. Reduce watering considerably if the plant slows down or goes dormant during winter. 

Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally around 60% or higher. Good humidity helps support healthy new leaves, although airflow is equally important to prevent foliage from remaining constantly wet.

Temperature: Thrives in 18–29°C. Sensitive to cold—keep away from drafts and never let it drop below 16°C.

Soil: Use a rich but well-draining soil mix that holds some moisture while still allowing oxygen around the roots. A quality tropical or aroid-style mix amended with perlite, bark, or other chunky material works well.

Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced houseplant fertilizer approximately once every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Reduce or discontinue fertilizer during winter if the plant has stopped actively producing new foliage.

Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged leaves at the base to maintain appearance and plant health.

Repotting: Repot when the plant becomes root-bound or begins producing multiple offsets that crowd the container. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the existing one and always ensure it has good drainage. Xanthosoma can also be divided during repotting once multiple established growing points are present.

Pro-Tip: Don’t panic if your Mickey Mouse suddenly slows down or drops foliage during the darker months. Xanthosoma can enter a period of dormancy when temperatures and light levels decrease. If this happens, dramatically reduce watering rather than trying to force new growth. Once warmth and brighter light return, the underground rhizome can begin producing fresh leaves again.

*Please note that color may differ slightly from how it appears on your screen due to varying monitor settings. 

**Please note that we will select a plant for you when you order online. Though you will not receive the specific plant in the image, we will ensure we select something comparable.