Elephant Ear (Alocasia)
Alocasia spp.
Tropical aroid grown for large, dramatic leaves; prefers bright indirect light, high humidity, and consistent moisture, with occasional seasonal dormancy.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
All parts contain calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation, swelling, drooling and vomiting. Skin contact can cause irritation and rash.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place in bright, filtered light — an east or north-east window is ideal. Avoid harsh midday sun which scorches leaves; morning or late afternoon sun is fine. If indoors, keep several feet back from a south window or use sheer curtain.
Water
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly until water drains, then allow top 2–3 cm (1 inch) to dry before watering again. Reduce frequency in winter and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Needs high humidity (60%+). Increase with pebble trays, regular misting, grouping plants, or a humidifier. Avoid dry indoor air from heaters; place on humidity-friendly locations like bathrooms or kitchens if light permits.
Temperature
Prefers 15–30°C (59–86°F); ideal 18–27°C (64–81°F). Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C (59°F), which cause stress and leaf loss.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing lower leaves
Cause: Natural leaf aging or overwatering leading to root stress
Solution: Remove old leaves, check drainage and roots, reduce watering frequency, repot into fresh mix if rotten roots present.
Brown leaf tips or edges
Cause: Low humidity, fluoride/salt buildup, or inconsistent watering
Solution: Increase humidity, flush soil periodically to remove salts, maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Leaves droop and wilt
Cause: Underwatering, root rot from overwatering, or cold stress
Solution: Check soil moisture and roots; water if dry, trim rotten roots and repot if necessary, move to warmer spot away from drafts.
Pests: spider mites, aphids, mealybugs
Cause: Dry indoor air and weakened plants
Solution: Isolate plant, wipe leaves, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, increase humidity and repeat treatments until gone.
✂️How to Propagate Elephant Ear (Alocasia)
Propagate primarily by division or separating offsets. Remove plant from pot, gently shake soil, and locate rhizomes or tubers with buds. Use a clean sharp knife to divide, keeping at least one healthy shoot and root mass per division. Pot divisions in a fast-draining, peat-rich mix, water lightly and keep warm and humid until established. Seeds are possible but slow: sow fresh seed in warm, moist mix and maintain high humidity and warmth.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Araceae
Native to: Tropical to subtropical Asia and eastern Australia, including rainforests and wetlands.
Natural Habitat: Understory of humid tropical forests, filtered light, warm temperatures, rich loamy or peaty soil that stays moist but drains freely among leaf litter and roots.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and keep soil slightly drier; maintain high humidity and warmth. Move away from cold windows and drafts. Stop fertilizing until active growth resumes.
Spring
Resume regular watering and monthly balanced fertilization as new growth appears. Consider repotting or dividing if rootbound and increase humidity.
Summer
Provide bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil. Increase humidity and feeding every 2–4 weeks. Watch for pests in warmer months.
Fall
Gradually reduce feeding and watering as growth slows. Monitor for cooler temperatures and protect from drafts; clean leaves to prepare for winter.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Alocasia?
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries; typically every 3–7 days in active growth, less in winter.
Why are my Alocasia leaves curling or drooping?
Curling and drooping often signal underwatering, overwatering, cold stress, or low humidity — check soil and environment.
Can I keep Alocasia in a south-facing window?
Only with a sheer curtain or several feet back; direct midday sun can scorch leaves. Bright, filtered light is best.
Is Alocasia safe for pets?
No — Alocasia is toxic to cats and dogs due to calcium oxalate crystals; keep out of reach.
When should I repot my Elephant Ear?
Repot in spring when roots fill the pot or every 1–2 years; choose a pot 2–5 cm larger and fresh, airy mix.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025