Alocasia macrorrhiza is also known as giant elephant ear or giant taro. This tropical perennial is native to Asia. In its native area, it can be up to 15 ft (4.5 m) tall. Its leaves are huge, and its flowers (pale-green spathes) are about 8 in (20 cm) long.
This plant is often named giant taro, as it is closely related to the taro, Calocasia esculenta. However, this name is also used for Calocasia gigantea, which is very similar in aspect and dimensions to Alocasia macrorrhiza.
Giant elephant ears can withstand negative temperatures down to about 25°F-26°F. (-3°C to -4°C) However, leaves will be damaged at 32°F (0°C) This plant has a sap that may prove irritating.
This Alocasia has huge leaves, that can be up to 6 ft (1.80 m) long, with petioles that can be more than 3 ft (1 m) long. Petioles are erect, but leaves are rather horizontal. Leaves are generaly green, but there is also a variegated form of giant elephant ears.
This Alocasia has inflorescences that can be up to about 8 in (20 cm). They are made of a pale-green spathe, and a white spadice.
Alocasia macrorrhiza requiert les expositions suivantes : ombre,mi-ombre,lumière This plant prefers a well-drained and fertile soil that remains moist. However, it is also adapted to humid soils.
Photos of giant elephant ear |
Category - perennial
Dimensions
Height 4.50 m
Width 3.00 m
Minimum temperatures
The plant is likely to die as soon as temperature is below -4.0 °C
Leaves and other aerial parts are damaged as soon as temperatures drops to 0.0 °C
Exposure - shade, partial shade, light
Leaves - evergreen
Flowers - Color(s) : white, green
Propagation - offset, seeds This plant can be propagated by seeds or by by rhizomes.
Toxicity No or unknown toxicity.Contains irritating, urticating or spiky parts.
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