Alocasia Macrorrhizos - Giant Taro

Alocasia Macrorrhizos

Family

Araceae

Origin

Phillippines

Description

Alocasia Macrorrhizos is also known as Giant Upright Elephant Ears and Giant Taro. A striking beauty with its dramatic, gigantic leaves. Giant Taro is an evergreen perennial which is excellent for bringing a lush look to the gardens. Resembling the ears of an elephant, thick, prominently veined, ruffled, green leaves are borne on rigid stalks which jut vertically from a stout upright trunk. Huge, they can reach 3-6 ft. in length and 2-4 ft. in the width. They are arrow-shaped at their bases and stand upright, pointing skyward, unlike the leaves of Colocasia which droop and point towards the ground. Reminiscent of calla lily flowers, the blossoms consist of a yellowish green spathe and spadix. They are not particularly showy and bloom intermittently throughout the year. Excellent tend perennial as a focal or specimen plant. They grow up to 12-15 ft. high and 6-8 ft. wide.

Environment

Alocasia Macrorrhizos performs best in part shade in organically rich, moist to wet soils. Provide a sheltered location to protect the decorative leaves from strong winds. Leaves often scorch when exposed to full sun. The plant requires regular watering and fertilization. Reduce watering in winter. It grows best in higher rainfall areas of the low land tropics.

Cautions

All parts of a plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, an irritant to the mouth and esophagus. They are toxic to cats and dogs.

Landscape Uses