🐘 GROWING GUIDE – Elephant Ears (Alocasia, Colocasia, Xanthosoma)
🐘 Elephant ears (Alocasia, Colocasia, Xanthosoma)
Spectacular giant foliage, impressive tropical plants.
Elephant ears encompass three genera of plants with giant, decorative leaves.
☀️ Light
Bright, indirect light to partial shade. Alocasia prefers more light, Colocasia tolerates more shade. Avoid direct, scorching sunlight.
💧 Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist. Colocasia can even grow in water. Alocasia prefers moist but well-drained soil. High ambient humidity is essential.
🌡️ Temperature
Ideal temperature: 18-27°C. Minimum: 15°C for Alocasia, 10°C for Colocasia. Some Colocasia varieties are hardy in Quebec.
🌱 Fertilization
Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2-3 weeks in spring and summer to promote foliage development.
🪴 Repotting
Every spring. Use rich, well-draining soil for Alocasia. Use moist soil for Colocasia. Divide the rhizomes if necessary.
✂️ Size
Remove any yellowed or damaged leaves at the base. No pruning is necessary. Some varieties go dormant in winter.
🐛 Common problems
- Spider mites: Spray regularly
- Yellow leaves: Too much or too little water
- Brown edges: Air too dry or hard water
🐘 Special Features
Alocasia: Leaves pointing upwards, prominent veins
Colocasia: Leaves pointing downwards, edible (taro)
Xanthosoma: Arrow-shaped leaves, edible tubers
Tropico-Québec tip: These plants love humidity! Mist daily or use a humidifier for spectacular foliage.