Chinese Taro
Alocasia cucullata
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Water
Consistently moist
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeast Asia
Toxicity
All parts are poisonous if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Alocasia cucullata is a tropical perennial with large, arrow-shaped leaves that have a glossy, dark green surface and prominent veins, forming a striking, upright clump. It produces small, white to pale green flowers on a spadix surrounded by a spathe. Known as Buddha's Hand or Chinese Taro, this species is considered a good luck charm and is often grown in Buddhist temples. It is noted for its compact, clumping habit and glossy, heart-shaped leaves, making it a popular ornamental foliage plant for shaded, humid environments.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Mist foliage to increase humidity 🌱
- Provide filtered light or partial shade
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
- Divide tubers every 2-3 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Use rich, organic soil and maintain high humidity for best growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
- Place in partial shade to prevent leaf scorch
- Fertilize monthly during growing season
- Mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
- Do not allow soil to dry out completely
- Refrain from overwatering to prevent rot ❌
- Avoid cold drafts during winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Chinese Taro questions
What zones can Chinese Taro grow in?
Chinese Taro is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Chinese Taro deer resistant?
Yes — Chinese Taro is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Chinese Taro bloom?
Chinese Taro typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Chinese Taro need full sun?
Chinese Taro does best in part shade.
More Alocasia to compare
Giant Taro
Alocasia macrorrhizos
Hardy Elephant Ear
Alocasia wentii
Giant Elephant Ear
Alocasia macrorrhizos 'Shock Treatment'
Variegated Elephant Ear
Alocasia macrorrhizos 'Variegata'
African Mask Plant Elephant Ear
Alocasia indica 'Odora'
Portodora Elephant Ear
Alocasia portodora
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Chinese Taro with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
