Giant Taro
Alocasia macrorrhizos
Alocasia macrorrhizos, commonly known as Giant Taro or Elephant Ear Taro, is a striking tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. With its large, heart-shaped leaves, it adds a dramatic touch to any garden or indoor space, thriving in warm, humid conditions.
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Alocasia macrorrhizos prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, adjusting frequency based on humidity and temperature. In the growing season (spring and summer), increase watering frequency, while in fall and winter, reduce it. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf edges.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Ideally, it should receive 6-8 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. If grown indoors, place it near a window with sheer curtains to diffuse the light.
Soil
Alocasia macrorrhizos prefers a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
A recommended mix is a combination of potting soil, peat, and perlite or orchid bark to enhance drainage. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Humidity
This plant enjoys high humidity levels, ideally between 60-80%.
To increase humidity, consider using a humidifier, placing a tray of water with pebbles beneath the pot, or misting the leaves regularly. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and edges.
Temperature
Alocasia macrorrhizos thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
It is sensitive to cold and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C). It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11, as it cannot tolerate frost.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
In fall and winter, reduce feeding as the plant's growth slows. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and poor leaf development.
Pruning
Prune Alocasia macrorrhizos as needed to remove yellow or damaged leaves, promoting healthier growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts at the base of the leaf stem. Deadheading is not necessary, but maintaining a tidy appearance can enhance its aesthetic.
Repotting
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot, typically when roots are visible through drainage holes.
Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include root crowding, stunted growth, and water retention in the pot. To repot, gently remove the plant, refresh the soil, and place it in the new pot, ensuring proper drainage.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through division or offsets.
The best time to propagate is in spring. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, separate the offsets with roots attached, and replant them in their own pots with suitable soil. Ensure each division has at least one leaf and root system for successful growth.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture and reduce watering frequency. Move the plant to a brighter location if it is not receiving enough light.
Brown leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels around the plant and ensure consistent watering to keep the soil moist.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excessive moisture and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Remove the plant from the pot, trim away affected roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Adjust watering habits to prevent recurrence.
Pests (e.g., spider mites, aphids)
Why it happens
Dry conditions or stress.
How to fix it
Regularly inspect the plant for pests and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increase humidity to deter pests.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Sudden temperature changes or stress.
How to fix it
Maintain stable temperatures and avoid placing the plant near drafts or heat sources.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering frequency as the plant begins to actively grow. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks to support new growth, and consider repotting if root-bound.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent moisture and high humidity. Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light, and monitor for pests that thrive in warm conditions.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as growth slows. Continue fertilizing until late fall, and prepare the plant for cooler temperatures by moving it indoors if necessary.
Winter
In winter, reduce watering further and avoid fertilizing. Keep the plant in a warm location, away from drafts, and maintain humidity levels to prevent stress.
Toxicity & Safety
Alocasia macrorrhizos is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation, swelling, and pain in the mouth and throat. Symptoms of ingestion include nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Good to know
Why are my Alocasia macrorrhizos leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or insufficient light. Check the soil moisture and ensure the plant is receiving adequate light to promote healthy growth.
How often should I water my Giant Taro?
Water your Alocasia macrorrhizos when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. Adjust frequency based on humidity and temperature.
What humidity level is best for Elephant Ear Taro?
Alocasia macrorrhizos thrives in high humidity levels between 60-80%. Consider using a humidifier or misting the leaves to maintain optimal humidity.
How do I propagate Alocasia macrorrhizos?
Propagation is best done through division in spring. Separate offsets with roots attached and replant them in suitable soil to encourage growth.
When should I repot my Giant Taro?
Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Signs include roots visible through drainage holes and stunted growth.
What type of soil is best for Alocasia macrorrhizos?
A well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter is ideal, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Consider mixing potting soil with peat and perlite.
Is Alocasia macrorrhizos toxic to pets?
Yes, Alocasia macrorrhizos is toxic to pets and humans. Ingestion can cause irritation and pain due to calcium oxalate crystals present in the plant.
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