Growing Alocasia (Elephant's Ear): Tropical Drama for Containers and Borders

Growing Alocasia (Elephant's Ear, Asian Taro)

Pronunciation: al-oh-kay'-shah

Add drama to the summer garden with tropicals. Alocasia is a tender perennial (hardy to Zones 9–10) contributing size and visual impact. Use in containers or borders; oversize foliage transforms the space. Large arrow-shaped leaves come in green hues overlaid with black, purple, or copper splotches.

Light and Watering

Grow in partial shade with average to ample water. Don’t let dry out between waterings. If gradually introduced to sun, it adapts to more light.

Fertilizer and Soil

Plant in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, 4–6 feet apart. Enjoys high humidity and heat.

Pests and Diseases

Few problems; occasionally mealy bug, scale, or bacterial fungus on leaves.

Companions

Plant among Coleus, Plectranthus, Begonias, or other shade-loving annuals and perennials.

End-of-Season Care

Outside Zones 9–10, lift and store tubers for winter. After first frost, cut foliage, clean soil, store tuber in wooden crate or plastic tub covered with lightly moistened peat moss or sand. Label varieties. Store at 40–50°F.

Alternatively, grow as houseplant: bring indoors before temps drop below 60°F, place in warm room with indirect light, reduce watering in winter.

Late Spring: When night temps exceed 60°F, move outdoors for summer.