Alocasia 'Upright Elephant Ears' (1 bulb)
Its giant foliage creates a lush tropical atmosphere while serving as an impressive focal point. Its rapid growth delivers a dramatic landscape effect in just one season.
Elephant Ear (Alocasia macrorrhizos) is a spectacular tropical plant admired for its enormous upright arrow-shaped leaves with a glossy, deeply veined green surface. Its broad, thick foliage creates a dramatic architectural silhouette reaching 150 to 200 cm in height. From June to September, this fast-growing tropical plant brings a lush, exotic effect to gardens, while its discreet flowers remain of secondary interest. Hardy only to Zone 10, it is not frost tolerant and must be protected once temperatures approach 10°C. Even so, it transforms Quebec landscapes into tropical displays within a single growing season.
Plant the rhizome in spring after all risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed thoroughly. Position it horizontally about 10 cm deep in rich, organic, moisture-retentive, yet perfectly drained soil. Alocasia macrorrhizos grows best in partial sun or bright partial shade, protected from intense afternoon sun. Keep the soil consistently moist without allowing it to become waterlogged, and apply a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during active growth. Before the first frost, move container-grown plants indoors or lift the rhizome and store it in a warm, dry, frost-free location.
This dramatic foliage plant is ideal for tropical gardens, large containers, patios, pond edges, and exotic landscape designs. Its bold upright habit contrasts beautifully with the finer foliage of ferns, hostas, caladiums, and colocasias. It also pairs exceptionally well with banana plants and cannas to create lush tropical displays or can be used alone as a striking focal point near a patio or entrance. Grown exclusively for its ornamental foliage, it is not intended for consumption and provides little value for pollinators.
