Description

General aspect and origins - 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.
Leaves - 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.
Flowers - 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.

Culture

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.
Soil - This plant prefers a well-drained and fertile soil that remains moist. However, it is also adapted to humid soils.

Propagation

This plant can be propagated by seeds or by by rhizomes.