Care Sheet - Alocasia - “Elephant Ear”

Alocasia - “Elephant Ear”

Alocasia or “Elephant Ears” are visually dramatic plants with unique leaves held aloft on slender stems. As there are many different varieties, general care ideas will need to be focused on the specific plant in questions.

Light: Alocasia will thrive in most types of indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct light, as this will burn the leaves, however light should still be plentiful as a lack of sunlight will result in poor growth and weak plants. 

Water: Alocasia often appreciate a little bit of dry time in-between watering, so allow the soil to dry by 20-25% before watering again.  

Environment: Like most houseplants, alocasia prefers a warm and humid environment. Avoid placement near any forced air such as heating or air-conditioning. Most often supplemental humidity should be provided but avoid any standing water on the leaves as it’s important for humidity to be balanced with ample air circulation between the leaves.

Toxicity: Though not often listed as specifically toxic, they can be considered as a bit of an irritant.

Of Note: 

• As alocasia grows, older leaves may yellow. This is normal, and you can remove them with no harm to the plant. This is a noticeable growth habit of the plant. Young plants, those whose roots do not fill the planter will often lose a leaf as they grow a new one. Mature plants retain many more leaves.

*When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.