Giant Elephant Ear
Alocasia macrorrhizos 'Shock Treatment'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
96 inches
Width
72 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
9
Water
Consistent moisture
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Australia and New Guinea
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Alocasia macrorrhizos, or Giant Taro, is a large, tropical herbaceous perennial known for its immense, arrow-shaped, upright leaves on stout stems, creating a dramatic, architectural effect. The species is distinguished by its massive leaves that can reach 3-6 feet long and 2-4 feet wide, and its ability to grow up to 15 feet tall in optimal tropical conditions. The cultivar 'Shock Treatment' is not widely recognized by botanical authorities.
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 rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Mist leaves during dry periods for humidity
- Place in partial shade for best foliage color
- Fertilize monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture and protect from frost in colder zones
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Place in partial shade for optimal growth
Don't
- Avoid waterlogging soil ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
- Refrain from dry soil conditions
- Don’t ignore frost protection in colder zones
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check |
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
Giant Elephant Ear questions
What zones can Giant Elephant Ear grow in?
Giant Elephant Ear is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Giant Elephant Ear deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Giant Elephant Ear, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Giant Elephant Ear bloom?
Giant Elephant Ear typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Giant Elephant Ear need full sun?
Giant Elephant Ear does best in part shade.
More Alocasia to compare
Giant Taro
Alocasia macrorrhizos
Hardy Elephant Ear
Alocasia wentii
Variegated Elephant Ear
Alocasia macrorrhizos 'Variegata'
African Mask Plant Elephant Ear
Alocasia indica 'Odora'
Portodora Elephant Ear
Alocasia portodora
African Mask Plant
Alocasia x hybrida 'Insinuata'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Giant Elephant Ear 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.
