Species
Alocasia cucullataChinese Taro1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Alocasia cucullata 'Yellow Tail' is known for its striking yellow-tinged leaf stems that add a pop of color to lush green foliage.
The unique yellow petioles contrast beautifully with the dark green, arrow-shaped leaves, making it a standout choice for tropical and subtropical gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
9, 10
Water
Consistent moisture
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southeast Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested, can cause skin irritation
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 2 inches deep into well-draining soil in spring.
- Mist leaves regularly to maintain humidity levels.
- Provide bright indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
- Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply balanced fertilizer every 4 weeks during growing season.
- Transplant when roots outgrow current pot, typically in spring.
Pro Tip
Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture for lush foliage growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Provide bright indirect light
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
- Maintain high humidity levels
Don't
- Avoid direct harsh sunlight ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Refrain from overwatering, which can cause rot
- Avoid cold drafts that can damage leaves
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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
Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear questions
What zones can Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear grow in?
Hooded Dwarf 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 Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear bloom?
Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear need full sun?
Hooded Dwarf Elephant Ear 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'
Portodora Elephant Ear
Alocasia portodora
African Mask Plant Elephant Ear
Alocasia indica 'Odora'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Hooded Dwarf 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.