Overview

Alocasia is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Alocasia, part of the Araceae family, with evergreen foliage. Alocasia grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1A. Suggested uses include sub-tropical and patio and container plants.

About

Alocasia, commonly known as the elephant's ear plant, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Araceae family. This evergreen plant thrives in partial shade with an east- or west-facing aspect and prefers a sheltered position. It grows best in moist but well-drained loam soil with an acid to neutral pH. Suitable for sub-tropical gardens as well as patio and container planting, Alocasia is hardy to UK zone H1A. Propagation is typically done by division or stem cuttings in spring or summer, and it provides interest throughout the winter season.

About the genus

Alocasia is a genus of rhizomatous or tuberous, broad-leaved, perennial, flowering plants from the family Araceae. There are about 90 accepted species native to tropical and subtropical Asia and eastern Australia. Around the world, many growers widely cultivate a range of hybrids and cultivars as ornamentals.

Wikipedia contributors, "Alocasia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Alocasia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Alocasia

Sunlight

Partial shade

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1A

Plant details

Alocasia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Herbaceous Perennial

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

Sub-tropical, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Alocasia

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or summer. Propagate by stem cuttings in spring

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and mealybugs

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions