Alocasia macrorrhizos
TAXONOMY
FamilyAraceae
GenusAlocasia
Zone10
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Alocasia macrorrhizos, commonly known as Giant Taro or Elephant Ear, is a large, tropical perennial plant native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its impressive, large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 1.5 meters long. This plant thrives in wet, tropical climates and can be found in rainforests and along riverbanks. It has a dormancy period during the cooler months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Ape
Arum Cordifolium
Arum Indicum
Arum Macrorrhizon
Arum Montanum
Arum Mucronatum
Arum Peregrinum
Arum Rapiforme
Caladium Macrorrhizon
Caladium Metallicum
Caladium Odoratum
Caladium Plumbeum
Calla Badian
Cunjevoi
Elephant Ear
Giant Taro
Philodendron Peregrinum
Philodendron Punctatum
Silver Banksia
Alocasia
Alocasia cordifolia
Alocasia grandis
Alocasia indica
Alocasia indica var. diversifolia
Alocasia indica var. heterophylla
Alocasia indica var. metallica
Alocasia indica var. rubra
Alocasia indica var. typica
Alocasia indica var. variegata
Alocasia macrorrhizos var. rubra
Alocasia macrorrhizos var. variegata
Alocasia marginata
Alocasia metallica
Alocasia montana
Alocasia pallida
Alocasia plumbea
Alocasia rapiformis
Alocasia uhinkii
Alocasia variegata
Caladium indica
Calla maxima
Colocasia boryi
Colocasia indica
Colocasia indica var. rubra
Colocasia macrorrhizos
Colocasia montana
Colocasia mucronata
Colocasia peregrina
Colocasia rapiformis
OVERVIEW
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
Dormancy2 Months
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Alocasia macrorrhizos requires bright, indirect light and high humidity to thrive. It prefers warm temperatures and should be kept away from cold drafts. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mist the leaves frequently to maintain humidity levels.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining, loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mix of potting soil with peat and perlite works well. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.Fertilizer
Feed Alocasia macrorrhizos with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20) every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the dormancy period in the cooler months.Repotting
Repot the plant every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is one size larger and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Propagate Alocasia macrorrhizos through division. The best time to do this is during the spring or early summer. Carefully separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has at least one growing point, and plant them in individual pots with fresh soil.Pruning
Prune the plant to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. This helps to maintain its appearance and encourages new growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Alocasia macrorrhizos is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Alocasia macrorrhizos can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it requires a warm, humid environment to thrive. If grown indoors, consider using a humidifier to maintain humidity levels. Regularly check for pests such as spider mites and aphids, and treat them promptly if found.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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