Alocasia ‘Macrorrhiza’, also known as elephant ear, originates from the tropics of Asia. This enormous, trendy houseplant can be found in almost every urban jungle! With this Alocasia, you get a tropical houseplant with particularly large leaves. The leaves of this plant can reach a width of 60 centimeters! One new leaf grows straight up from the core of the plant. After which it unfolds and sinks down. This causes the height and width of the plant to vary constantly. Keep in mind that the Alocasia needs quite a lot of space and place the houseplant in a place where it can grow both high and wide.
Care guide
The Alocasia prefers a place in the sun. It is advisable to turn the houseplant a quarter turn now and then, so that the plant does not grow in one direction only. Furthermore, the Alocasia prefers a moist soil. Make sure that the potting soil is always slightly moist. It is important that the roots do not stand in the water. It is best to give the Alocasia a little water every day, rather than a large amount all at once.
Light
Place the Giant Taro in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day. Be careful with full sun exposure as this could burn the plant’s leaves. Make sure it’s away from radiators and air conditioners.
Water
Let the top layer of soil dry in between waterings and make sure the moisture is distributed evenly. Use preferably rain or distilled water. You can use tap water that has been left out for 24hr, this minimises the concentrations of chlorine or fluorides.
Temperature
Like other tropical plants, this one likes warmer temperatures, 15 to 30ºC are preferred. Avoid cold draughts. You can move the plant outdoors in the summer but bring it back in when the winter starts and be careful with direct sunlight.
Nutrition
During the growing season, feed it with a balanced half-strength liquid fertiliser to give the plant the necessary nutrients. Moisture the soil beforehand to avoid burning the roots.
Care
Use a clean cloth to remove accumulated dust from its leaves.
Additional information
Toxicity
The Giant Taro contains calcium oxalate, so it’s highly poisonous. It can cause swelling, irritation in the mouth and difficulty breathing. So, keep away from nibbly pets and curious children!
This Alocasia variety has an incredible ability to improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and impurities with its large broad leaves, acting as an incredible air purifier and humidifier.
If you let it expand with space conditions, it can grow up to 15 feet tall and 8 feet wide, with each leaf reaching up to 3.5 feet!
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