Upright Elephant Ear (Alocasia macrorrhizos): Giant Taro for Tropical Drama

Alocasia macrorrhizos, known as Upright Elephant Ear, Giant Taro, or Wild Taro, is a massive, evergreen perennial with enormous, upright, arrow-shaped leaves that can reach 3–6 feet long and 2–4 feet wide. It creates an instant tropical jungle effect.

Botanical Profile

Culture & Impact

Native to tropical Asia and Queensland, this imposing plant forms a thick, trunk-like stem base (caudex) with age. The leaves are held stiffly upright on long, sturdy petioles. It thrives in partial shade to full sun (with ample water), rich, moist soil, and high humidity. In optimal conditions, it reaches 10–15 feet tall.

Hardy only to about 30°F (-1°C); in zones 9–11, it's a perennial landscape giant. In cooler zones, grow in large containers and overwinter indoors, or lift corms. The starchy corms are edible (Giant Taro) but require thorough cooking to remove irritants. A spectacular architectural plant for tropical gardens, water features, and large conservatories.