Giant Elephant Ear

Giant Elephants Ear

Alocasia macrorrhiza

The Giant Elephants Ear Plant is a tropical plant known for its enormous leaves. This Dramatic Tropical plant requires shade. Grows to 4M

Alocasia macrorrhiza, commonly known as Giant Taro, Elephant Ear, or Upright Elephant Ear, is a striking tropical plant renowned for its enormous, heart-shaped leaves and bold presence. Native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, it thrives in warm, humid environments and is a popular choice for creating a lush, tropical atmosphere indoors or outdoors.

Key Features:

Appearance:

  • Leaves: Large, glossy, deep green, heart-shaped leaves with prominent veining. They can grow up to 1 meter (3 feet) long and are held aloft on sturdy, upright stems.
  • Height and Spread: Can reach up to 2–4 meters (6–13 feet) tall in ideal outdoor conditions, with a spread of 1–2 meters (3–6 feet).
  • Growth Habit: A clump-forming perennial with a dramatic, architectural structure.
  • Flowers: Produces small, inconspicuous yellowish-green spathes, though it rarely blooms indoors.

Growing Conditions:

Light Requirements:

  • Thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
  • Can adapt to partial shade, though growth may slow down.

Soil:

  • Prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with good moisture retention. A mix of peat, compost, and perlite is ideal.
  • Ensure the soil is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7).

Watering:

  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry.
  • Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.

Humidity:

  • Requires high humidity (above 50%) to thrive. If grown indoors, mist the plant regularly or use a humidifier to maintain moisture levels.

Temperature:

  • Prefers warm temperatures between 18–30°C (65–86°F).
  • Sensitive to cold and frost; temperatures below 15°C (59°F) can cause damage. Move potted plants indoors during cooler months in temperate climates.

Care Tips:

  1. Fertilizing:
    • Feed every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer or one high in nitrogen for foliage development.
    • Reduce feeding in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
  2. Pruning:
    • Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain its appearance and encourage healthy growth.
  3. Repotting:
    • Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is 2–3 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
  4. Pest Management:
    • Watch for pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Advantages:

  • Dramatic Foliage: Adds a bold, tropical vibe to any space.
  • Air-Purifying: Improves indoor air quality by removing toxins.
  • Low-Maintenance: Relatively easy to care for with proper light and water.

Potential Issues:

Common Problems:

  1. Yellowing Leaves:
    • Often caused by overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
  2. Brown Leaf Edges:
    • Indicates low humidity or excessive direct sunlight. Increase humidity and move the plant to a spot with indirect light.
  3. Wilting:
    • May occur due to root rot, pests, or lack of water. Inspect the roots and soil for issues.

Toxicity:

  • Toxic to pets and humans if ingested due to calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Propagation:

  • Best propagated through division:
    1. Gently remove the plant from its pot or dig it up if outdoors.
    2. Separate the offsets (young plants) from the parent rhizome, ensuring each division has roots attached.
    3. Replant the divisions in fresh, well-draining soil and water thoroughly.

Uses in Landscaping:

  • Tropical Gardens: Ideal as a focal point or backdrop in tropical or subtropical landscapes.
  • Container Planting: Thrives in large pots, making it suitable for patios, balconies, or indoor spaces.
  • Water Features: Perfect for planting near ponds or other water features due to its love for moisture.

Companion Plants:

  • Colocasia esculenta: Complements with similar foliage but different growth habits.
  • Heliconia rostrata: Adds vibrant color to the lush greenery.
  • Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird of Paradise): Matches the tropical aesthetic with bold, upright leaves.
  • Ferns: Create a layered, jungle-like effect with smaller, textured foliage.

Interesting Facts:

  • In its native regions, Alocasia macrorrhiza has cultural and culinary uses. However, it must be carefully processed to remove toxins before consumption.
  • Its enormous leaves were historically used as natural umbrellas in tropical rainforests.

$36.25 – $132.25 inc. GST

In stock

SKU: Alomac Categories: , , ,

Melbourne Metro deliveries cost $44.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 1 and 5 business days.

The Mornington Peninsula ** Mt Eliza to Portsea ** and Geelong deliveries cost $66.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 1 and 5 business days.

Outer Melbourne deliveries cost $132.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 1 and 7 business days.

Regional Victoria deliveries cost between $143.00 – $264.00.
Expect your delivery to arrive between 3 and 7 business days.

Call David Direct on 0427 047 857 to

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