Alocasia (Elephant Ears)

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Plant description

Alocasias, or elephant ears, are perennial plants that are noted for their eye catching foliage. They have large leaves, arising from a rhizome or tuber, and give a tropical feel to a garden, patio or indoors. They are best in tropical and sub-tropical climates, but can also grow in temperate areas in a warm spot. Some varieties have contrasting colours and patterns to their leaves. They are suited to both garden plantings, as well as being great for containers. They can make good indoor plants, but need bright light and misting to do well for longer periods indoors.

Alocasias need warmth and humidity to grow well. If the surrounding air is too dry the plant is liable to be subject to diseases such as mites. Plain green leaved varieties cope better in cooler, drier areas than the more colourful forms. There are some species which can cope with frosts, such as Alocasia odora and Alocasia wentii. Very cold conditions can make Alocasias go dormant, but once the weather warms, the tubers will resprout.

The plant contains irritants which can cause numbing and swelling if ingested, or with skin contact.

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: not specified
Flowering season: not specified

Plant size

Maximum height: 2 metres
Minimum height: not specified

Maximum width: 0.5 metres
Minimum width: not specified

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

Will tolerate partial sunlight.
Light frost tolerance.
Plant is not salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Not specified.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: temperate, subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: moist, well-drained.

Clay: well-drained.

Sand: moist.

Diseases

Fungal root rot in overly wet conditions

Pests

Res spider mite

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: not specified.

Types of fertiliser: Half strength liquid fertiliser apllied through the warmer months.

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