Alocasia Tiny Dancer: The Petite Pixie Elephant Ear

Alocasia Tiny Dancer, a captivating addition to any indoor space, descends from the Araceae family, closely related to the Colocasia esculenta (Taro), Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane), and Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen). Its petite stature, adorned with distinctive arrowhead-shaped leaves, makes it a charming tabletop or windowsill companion, earning it the affectionate nickname “Pixie Elephant Ear”.

Alocasia: Unveiling the Enchanting World of Tropical Elegance

Embark on a tropical adventure as we delve into the captivating world of Alocasia, a genus renowned for its striking foliage and unparalleled grace. These captivating plants, often referred to as Elephant Ears, showcase a captivating array of leaf shapes, textures, and colors, adding an exotic touch to any garden or indoor space.

Alocasia’s distinctive feature is its large, arrow-shaped or elephant ear-shaped leaves, which can range in color from vibrant greens to deep purples. They possess prominent veins that create an intricate network of patterns, lending an artistic flair to their foliage. Some species even exhibit metallic sheens or zebra-striped stems, making them true conversation starters.

As members of the Araceae family, Alocasias are closely related to Colocasia and other tropical plants. They thrive in warm, humid environments, reminiscent of their native habitats in Southeast Asia. However, with proper care, they can also flourish as houseplants, bringing a touch of the tropics indoors.

Related Plants: Alocasia’s Kin

Alocasia, with its captivating foliage, shares a close affinity with several other intriguing plant groups. Colocasia, commonly known as Elephant Ear, is a genus with similar large, arrowhead-shaped leaves. Both Alocasia and Colocasia belong to the Araceae family, showcasing the diverse beauty of this plant group.

Beyond the Araceae family, Alocasia finds itself connected to other tropical plant enthusiasts. The Elephant Ear nomenclature is also used to describe plants from the Taro genus (Colocasia esculenta), primarily cultivated for their edible corms. These plants exhibit a similar growth habit to Alocasia, with their large, bold leaves creating a striking presence.

The world of tropical plants is a vast and captivating one, and Alocasia finds its place within this vibrant tapestry. Its architectural foliage adds a touch of exoticism to any space, whether it be a lush tropical garden or a cozy indoor hideaway. By understanding its relationships with other plants, we can appreciate Alocasia’s unique charm and its contribution to the diverse realm of horticulture.

Easy Care and Cultivation of Alocasia: Low-Maintenance Care for Tropical Elegance

Nurturing Alocasia, known for its striking foliage and low-maintenance requirements, is a delightful endeavor for plant enthusiasts. These tropical beauties thrive in moist environments with bright, indirect light. Their adaptability makes them perfect for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Watering

Alocasias prefer consistent moisture but avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during the cooler months. Use lukewarm water and water deeply, allowing the excess to drain freely.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal for Alocasias. East- or west-facing windows provide ample light without exposing them to the harsh afternoon sun. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate leaves.

Fertilizing

Fertilize Alocasias monthly during their growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength and avoid overfeeding, which can lead to foliage burn.

Humidity

Alocasias appreciate high humidity. Misting their leaves regularly or placing them on a tray filled with pebbles and water can increase the humidity around them. Alternatively, group them with other plants to create a microclimate.

Temperature

Alocasias thrive in warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Protect them from cold drafts and avoid exposing them to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Optimal Environmental Conditions for Alocasia: A Guide to Moist Soil and Bright Indirect Light

Alocasias, with their vibrant leaves and elegant foliage, have captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide. These tropical beauties require specific environmental conditions to thrive, and understanding their needs is crucial for their well-being.

Moist Soil: The Key to Hydration

Alocasias prefer moist soil that drains well. This doesn’t mean soggy soil, but it shouldn’t dry out completely either. Regular watering is essential, especially during the growing season (spring and summer). Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering.

Bright Indirect Light: Striking a Balance

Alocasias adore bright indirect light. They can tolerate low light conditions but will produce more lush foliage and vibrant colors in brighter settings. Avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves. When choosing a location, opt for a spot near a north-facing window or under a sheer curtain in a room with ample natural light.

Humidity: A Touch of the Tropics

Alocasias thrive in humid environments. Misting their leaves regularly, using a humidifier, or placing them on top of a tray filled with pebbles and water can create a more tropical atmosphere. This extra moisture helps to keep their leaves hydrated and prevent browning.

By providing your Alocasia with moist soil, bright indirect light, and adequate humidity, you can create an optimal environment for it to flourish. Remember, these tropical wonders will reward your care with their stunning foliage and architectural elegance. So, embark on the journey of Alocasia cultivation today and witness the beauty of these captivating plants in your home or garden.

Varieties of Alocasia: A Symphony of Shapes and Colors

Within the genus Alocasia, a diverse array of species exist, each boasting unique foliage and specific needs.

The Alocasia plumbea captivates with its iridescent metallic leaves that shimmer in the light. Its large, arrowhead-shaped leaves add a touch of drama to any space.

Alocasia amazonica, also known as the Amazonian Elephant Ear, flaunts showy heart-shaped leaves with prominent veins. This tropical beauty thrives in humid environments and makes a bold statement indoors or out.

Alocasia zebrina is another eye-catching variety. Its zebra-striped stems and arrow-shaped leaves add texture and visual interest. This compact plant is perfect for smaller spaces and makes a striking addition to any container arrangement.

Alocasia cucullata stands out with its unique hooded leaves. The cupped shape of its leaves creates a shadowy and mysterious effect. This shade-loving plant adds depth and contrast to shady borders and indoor nooks.

Alocasia plumbea: The Plant with Vibrant Metallic Leaves

Amongst the diverse world of Alocasias, Alocasia plumbea stands out as a captivating specimen. Its most striking feature is its foliage, adorned with a vibrant metallic sheen that seems to shimmer in the light. The leaves are large and ovate, with deeply lobed edges and prominent veins. Their undersides are often tinted with a deep purple, creating a striking contrast.

The metallic leaves of Alocasia plumbea are a testament to the wonders of nature’s artistry. The plant’s ability to produce such a unique and eye-catching effect is due to the presence of microscopic crystals on the surface of the leaves. These crystals reflect light in a way that creates the iridescent sheen, making the leaves appear as though they have been coated with a layer of shiny metal.

In the wild, Alocasia plumbea is found in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia. It typically grows in moist, shady areas, where it can benefit from the protection of larger trees. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and receives regular watering. With proper care, Alocasia plumbea can thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings.

If you’re looking to add a touch of tropical flair to your home or garden, Alocasia plumbea is an excellent choice. Its striking metallic leaves are sure to draw attention and add a sense of drama to any space. With its relatively easy care requirements, this plant is a joy for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts alike. So why not bring a piece of the rainforest indoors with this captivating and beautiful species?

Alocasia Amazonica: The Showy Heart-Shaped Jewel

Amidst the diverse genus of Alocasia, one species stands out with its captivating foliage: Alocasia amazonica. Native to the lush rainforests of the Amazon basin, this tropical beauty has stolen the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide.

Distinctive Features

What sets Alocasia amazonica apart is its showy heart-shaped leaves. These enormous, velvety leaves can reach up to 2 feet in length, adorned with prominent veins that create a captivating texture. The deep green color adds a touch of elegance, making it a standout in any collection.

Growing Requirements

Despite its tropical origins, Alocasia amazonica is surprisingly easy to care for. It thrives in warm, humid environments with bright, indirect light. Ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

Stunning Varieties

Alocasia amazonica comes in several captivating varieties, each with unique characteristics:

• Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’: Smaller in size with a compact habit, making it ideal for indoor spaces.
• Alocasia amazonica ‘Tigrina’: Displaying striking tiger-striped leaves on long petioles.
• Alocasia amazonica ‘Variegata’: Features leaves adorned with irregular white variegations.

Propagation Made Easy

Propagating Alocasia amazonica is a breeze. The simplest method is rhizome division, where sections of the plant’s underground rhizomes are separated and potted individually. Offsets and stem cuttings can also be used to create new plants.

Versatility in Landscaping

The bold foliage of Alocasia amazonica makes it a versatile landscaping element. It adds lush foliage to tropical gardens, creates contrast and depth in shady borders, and brightens indoor spaces as a statement houseplant. In outdoor spaces, it can be used in patio and container displays to elevate the ambiance with its dramatic presence.

Safety Considerations

While Alocasia amazonica is a beauty to behold, it’s essential to note its toxic nature. The sap and leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause skin irritation and swelling upon contact. Keep the plant out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Alocasia zebrina: The Showstopper with Zebra-Striped Stems

Amidst the stunning tapestry of Alocasia varieties, the Alocasia zebrina stands out as a horticultural masterpiece. This exotic beauty captivates with its striking zebra-striped stems that resemble the enigmatic markings of a wild zebra. Soaring from the soil with confidence, these stems serve as a captivating canvas for the plant’s extraordinary foliage.

Each leaf of the Alocasia zebrina is a work of art, resembling an elegant arrowhead. Its deep green surface is adorned with intricate silver-gray veins that create a mesmerizing pattern, as if nature’s own artist had carefully painted each leaf with a fine brush. The combination of the bold stripes on the stems and the delicate veining on the leaves results in an unforgettable visual experience.

This tropical wonder thrives in the company of other shade-loving plants, making it an excellent choice for creating lush, verdant havens in your home or garden. Its easygoing nature makes it a joy to care for, as it adapts well to most indoor environments and requires minimal attention.

However, despite its beauty and ease of growth, the Alocasia zebrina is not without its quirks. Like other Alocasia species, it contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause skin irritation and swelling if the plant is handled carelessly. Therefore, it’s essential to wear gloves when pruning or repotting the plant, and keep it out of reach of curious pets and children.

If you’re looking to add a touch of drama and exotic flair to your home or garden, the Alocasia zebrina is an unbeatable choice. With its striking zebra-striped stems and captivating foliage, it’s sure to become the centerpiece of your indoor or outdoor space, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of all who lay their eyes upon it.

Alocasia cucullata: The Enigmatic Hooded Jewel

Among the captivating genus of Alocasia, Alocasia cucullata stands out as a botanical enigma with its unique hooded leaves. This exotic plant captivates with its distinctive appearance and intriguing growth habit.

Unfurling from shrouded leaf buds, these hooded structures resemble tiny umbrellas, gracing the plant with a mysterious charm. The captivating leaves, with their corrugated texture and iridescent sheen, paint a scene of ethereal beauty in your garden or interior.

The hooded leaves of Alocasia cucullata not only amplify its visual allure but also serve a fascinating purpose. They protect the developing inner leaves from the elements, ensuring their tender growth. As they unfurl, they unveil a symphony of textures and colors, adding dynamism to any space.

Rhizome Division: Unveiling the Secret of Alocasia Propagation

Beneath the lush foliage of Alocasia plants lies a hidden treasure—rhizomes. These underground stems hold the key to propagating new Alocasia plants with ease.

What is a Rhizome?

Rhizomes are fleshy, horizontal stems that grow just below the soil line. They serve as storage organs, storing nutrients and water, while also producing new plantlets or roots.

The Process of Rhizome Division

While it may sound intimidating, dividing rhizomes is a relatively simple process. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Unpot the Plant: Gently remove the Alocasia plant from its container.
2. Identify the Rhizomes: Look for the thick, fleshy stems running horizontally around the base of the plant.
3. Divide the Rhizomes: Use a sharp, clean knife to carefully cut the rhizomes into smaller sections. Each section should have a growth point or an eye.
4. Repot the Sections: Plant the divided rhizomes in separate pots filled with well-draining potting mix. Ensure the growth point is facing upwards.

Benefits of Rhizome Division

Rhizome division offers several benefits:

• Multiplies Your Collection: Divide and conquer to increase the number of Alocasia plants you have.
• Rejuvenates Plants: Dividing overgrown or crowded rhizomes promotes healthy growth and reduces the risk of disease.
• Preserves Genetic Diversity: Propagating through rhizomes ensures that the resulting plants retain the unique characteristics of the mother plant.

Tips for Success

• Use sterilized tools to prevent infection.
• Divide rhizomes during the active growing season, typically in spring or summer.
• Ensure the potting mix is well-draining to avoid root rot.
• Keep the newly potted plants in a warm, humid environment until they establish roots.

Embrace the art of rhizome division and unlock the secret to propagating stunning Alocasia plants that will add a touch of tropical elegance to your home or garden.

Offset Removal: Nurturing New Life From Alocasia Mother Plants

When your beloved Alocasia plant thrives, it often produces adorable plantlets, or offsets, around its base. These miniature replicas of the mother plant hold the potential to become flourishing Alocasias themselves. Here’s a step-by-step guide to removing offsets and giving them the best start in life:

Materials:

• Sharp, sterilized knife or scissors
• Potting mix suitable for Alocasias
• Small pots or cups with drainage holes

Steps:

1. Identify suitable offsets: Choose offsets that have developed their own root system. This ensures they can support themselves when separated.
2. Carefully remove the offset: Gently loosen the soil around the offset using a knife or your fingers. Avoid damaging the roots of either the mother plant or the offset.
3. Plant the offset: Fill a small pot with fresh potting mix and make a hole deep enough to accommodate the roots. Carefully place the offset in the hole and gently firm the soil around it.
4. Water and provide proper care: Water the newly planted offset thoroughly and keep it warm and humid. Provide bright, indirect light and protect from direct sunlight.

Tips:

• Use sterilized tools to prevent disease.
• Be patient as offsets may need 1-2 years to mature into full-grown plants.
• Don’t overwater the offset as it can lead to root rot.
• Consider using a rooting hormone to promote root development.
• Monitor the offset’s progress and repot it into a larger container as needed.

By following these steps, you can successfully propagate new Alocasias from offsets. These vibrant additions will add joy and lushness to your indoor or outdoor spaces.

Stem Cuttings: Propagating Alocasia with Ease

Whether you’re a budding plant enthusiast or a seasoned green thumb, the allure of propagating Alocasia is undeniable. Stem cuttings offer a convenient and rewarding method to expand your collection or share the beauty of these tropical wonders with friends.

Selecting the Perfect Stem

Choose a healthy Alocasia plant with robust stems and no signs of disease. Locate a stem with at least one node. The node is a slight swelling where the leaf joins the stem, and it’s the point from which new roots will emerge.

Preparing the Cutting

Using a sharp knife or pruners, carefully cut just below the node. Remove any excess leaves from the lower portion of the stem, leaving about 2-3 inches exposed. Trim the tip of the stem to remove any wilted or damaged tissue.

Rooting the Cutting

There are two main methods for rooting Alocasia stem cuttings: water propagation and soil propagation.

For water propagation, place the cutting in a clean glass or jar filled with fresh, room-temperature water. Suspend the cutting so that the node is submerged and the leaves are just above the waterline. Change the water regularly to prevent bacteria growth.

For soil propagation, prepare a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Make a small hole in the soil and gently insert the cutting, ensuring that the node is buried about 1 inch deep. Pack the soil firmly around the cutting and water it thoroughly.

Providing the Ideal Growing Conditions

Place the cutting in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. Keep the soil or water moist but not soggy.

Waiting for Results

Rooting may take 2-4 weeks, depending on the species of Alocasia and the environmental conditions. You can check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. If there is resistance, the cutting has successfully rooted.

Once the cutting has developed a healthy root system, you can transplant it into a larger pot filled with fresh potting mix. Provide the same care as mature Alocasia plants, and soon you’ll have a thriving new specimen to add to your collection.

Alocasia: Adding Tropical Flair to Your Garden Oasis

As a seasoned home improvement and gardening enthusiast, I’m thrilled to delve into the captivating world of Alocasia. These extraordinary plants will transform your tropical garden into a lush paradise, bursting with vibrant foliage and architectural splendor.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener seeking new botanical treasures or a beginner looking to add a touch of the tropics to your backyard, Alocasia will captivate your senses. Their generous leaves in a myriad of shapes and colors will create a stunning backdrop for any outdoor space.

The expansive leaves of Alocasia, ranging from shimmering metallics to bold patterns, will add lush greenery to your garden. Imagine Alocasia plumbea with its eye-catching metallic leaves, Alocasia amazonica with its showy heart-shaped leaves, or Alocasia zebrina with its striking zebra-striped stems. The variety of species ensures you’ll find the perfect Alocasia to complement your tropical garden’s unique style.

Shady Borders: Alocasia’s Gift of Contrast and Depth

Imagine your garden shaded by towering trees, their lush canopies casting an ethereal glow upon the landscape. In such a setting, Alocasia, with its striking foliage and architectural leaves, emerges as a beacon of vibrant life. Embracing the dimness, these captivating plants transform shady borders into captivating havens of contrasting hues and captivating textures.

The genus Alocasia boasts a wealth of species, each boasting unique characteristics that add to its visual appeal. From the metallic shimmer of Alocasia plumbea to the heart-shaped leaves of Alocasia amazonica, these plants provide a vast palette of options. Whether you seek to introduce dramatic focal points or create a tapestry of subtle contrasts, Alocasia offers countless possibilities.

In shaded borders, Alocasia becomes a master of light play. Their large, often patterned leaves absorb the available sunlight and reflect it in a myriad of ways. This interplay of light and shade creates a multidimensional effect, enhancing the depth and dimension of your garden. The bold colors and textures of these plants stand out against the muted backdrop, drawing attention and defining spaces.

Whether cascading over rocks, flanking a winding path, or anchoring a tranquil seating area, Alocasia in shady borders adds an unforgettable touch of elegance and intrigue. Its presence transforms dull corners into enchanting havens, inviting exploration and contemplation. As the sun filters through the canopy above, casting dappled light upon these architectural wonders, you’ll discover a symphony of color and texture that will elevate your garden experience to new heights.

Indoor houseplants: Brightening homes with architectural foliage

Indoor Houseplants: Brightening Homes with Architectural Foliage

When it comes to adding a touch of the tropics to your home, nothing beats the architectural foliage of Alocasia. These stunning plants, with their oversized leaves and bold patterns, are the perfect way to create a lush and inviting atmosphere indoors.

Alocasia’s large, arrow-shaped leaves come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, from the vibrant metallic of Alocasia plumbea to the showy heart-shaped leaves of Alocasia amazonica. These plants are true statement pieces, adding a touch of drama and elegance to any room.

Not only are Aloacasias visually appealing, but they are also surprisingly easy to care for. They prefer bright indirect light and moist soil, making them ideal for homes with low-maintenance lifestyles. With a little TLC, these plants will thrive indoors, providing you with years of tropical beauty.

In addition to their stunning appearance and easy care, Aloacasias are also versatile houseplants. They can be used to add a touch of greenery to shady corners, create a focal point in a well-lit room, or even be used as a natural privacy screen.

Safety Considerations

While Aloacasias are generally safe for homes with pets and children, it’s important to note that their sap and leaves can cause skin irritation. It’s always best to handle these plants with gloves and keep them out of reach of young children and curious pets.

Patio and Container Displays: Enhancing Outdoor Spaces with Dramatic Alocasia

Whether you have a sprawling patio or a cozy balcony, Alocasia plants can transform your outdoor living space into a tropical paradise. These stunning plants, with their bold foliage and architectural form, add an instant touch of drama and elegance.

In containers or arrangements, Alocasia makes a statement. Their large, vibrant leaves create a striking contrast against the backdrop of outdoor furniture. Choose from a variety of species, each with its own unique foliage. For a bold centerpiece, opt for the Alocasia plumbea, with its metallic-hued leaves. Or, create a tropical oasis with the Alocasia amazonica, boasting heart-shaped leaves that shimmer in the sunlight.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Alocasia are also relatively easy to care for in containers. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and bright indirect light. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently damp, and provide occasional fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Accessorize your containers with decorative stones or mulch to enhance the overall presentation. Arrange Alocasia plants in groupings of varying heights and textures to create visual interest. Pairing them with other shade-loving plants, such as ferns or begonias, can create a lush and harmonious display.

Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply enjoying your outdoor space, Alocasia plants will elevate your outdoor decor and bring a touch of the tropics right to your doorstep. So, embrace the dramatic foliage and versatility of Alocasia to transform your patio or container displays into a captivating tropical retreat.

Skin Irritation from Alocasias

Alocasias, with their striking foliage and architectural presence, make them popular houseplants and landscaping staples. However, it’s crucial to handle these plants with care as they possess a hidden danger: skin irritation.

The sap of Alocasias contains calcium oxalate crystals, microscopic needle-shaped structures that can cause intense itching, swelling, and redness upon contact with skin. The leaves are also covered in these crystals, so even brushing against them can trigger an allergic reaction.

In some cases, the irritation can be severe, leaving behind painful blisters and long-lasting discomfort. If you have sensitive skin, it’s wise to wear gloves when handling Alocasias or avoid touching them altogether. Those with latex allergies should be extra cautious as the sap may worsen their allergies.

Avoiding Skin Irritation

To prevent skin irritation from Alocasias, follow these precautions:

• Wear gloves: When pruning, repotting, or handling Alocasias, always wear protective gloves to shield your skin from the sap.
• Avoid direct contact: Try to keep your skin from coming into direct contact with the leaves or stems of Alocasias.
• Wash thoroughly: If you do come into contact with the sap or leaves, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Alocasias are toxic to both children and animals. Place plants in areas where they cannot be easily accessed and supervise young children and pets around them.

Alocasia: A Stunning Yet Cautious Addition to Your Home

Alocasia, a genus of tropical plants known for their striking foliage, has captured the hearts of home decorators and gardeners alike. While they add a touch of lush greenery and visual appeal to any space, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with these plants, particularly for pets and young children.

Toxicity and Prevention

Alocasia plants contain a toxic substance known as calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause skin irritation upon contact, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort. Ingestion of Alocasia leaves or stems can be even more dangerous, causing mouth and throat irritation, gastrointestinal upset, and breathing difficulties.

To prevent accidental exposure, keep Alocasia plants out of reach of children and pets. Place them on high shelves or in hanging baskets where they can’t be easily accessed. Thoroughly wash your hands after handling Alocasia plants, especially after pruning. If you have sensitive skin, wear gloves when working with them.

Symptoms of Toxicity

If you or your pets experience any symptoms of Alocasia toxicity, seek medical attention immediately. Common symptoms include:

• Skin irritation and swelling
• Mouth and throat irritation
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing

Call the National Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) or your veterinarian for guidance on how to handle the situation.

Precautions for Pet Owners

If you have pets, it’s advisable to avoid keeping Alocasia plants in your home altogether. Even if your pets don’t chew on the leaves, they may come into contact with the sap, which can still cause irritation. If you’re determined to have an Alocasia in your home, take extra precautions to keep it safely out of reach.

Closing Thoughts

While Alocasia plants can be a beautiful addition to your home, it’s essential to prioritize safety. By taking the necessary precautions and keeping these plants out of reach of children and pets, you can enjoy their beauty without putting anyone at risk. Remember, a lush and healthy home should never come at the expense of well-being.

And that’s all you need to know about the enchanting Alocasia Tiny Dancer. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor jungle, this petite beauty is sure to add a touch of tropical elegance to your space. As always, thanks for stopping by and brightening my day with your botanical curiosity. If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check back later for more plant-astic tips, tricks, and stories. Remember, your green buddies are always eager for your love and attention, so give them the best possible care, and they’ll reward you with a lifetime of beauty and joy!