Alocasia (Elephant ear plant)
The Alocasia, also known as Elephant ear, is a cool plant with a tropical touch that really makes a nice addition to your interior. This plant is for the real plant lover! The Alocasia, also known as Elephant ear, is a cool plant with a tr...
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Alocasia: the tropical eye-catcher for your home
The Alocasia is a tropical houseplant from the Araceae family, originally from the rainforests of Asia. It's also known as the elephant ear, thanks to the large, impressive leaves that can sometimes reach a metre and a half across. That makes the Alocasia a real eye-catcher in any home.
The plant brings an instant tropical feel indoors, though it does ask a little more attention than the average houseplant. It's exactly that combination of striking looks and care needs that makes the Alocasia so popular with keen plant lovers looking for a statement plant.
Popular Alocasia varieties at Green Bubble
There are many different types within the Alocasia family, each with a character of its own. Here are the most popular ones.
Alocasia Wentii
The Alocasia Wentii is known for its large, leathery leaves with a striking green top side and a subtle purple underside. This variety gives your home a powerful, tropical look.
Alocasia Zebrina
The Alocasia Zebrina is one of the best-loved varieties, thanks to its eye-catching striped stems. Combined with the arrow-shaped leaves, this gives it a playful, exotic character that stands out straight away.
Alocasia Arrow
The Alocasia Arrow is a compact, elegant plant with narrow, arrow-shaped leaves and a striking silvery-green pattern of veins.
Caring for the Alocasia
The Alocasia wants a bright spot, slightly moist soil and high humidity. It doesn't like drying out, but it doesn't like wet feet either. Routine and attention are what keep the elephant ear healthy and strong.
Would you like all the details on watering, position and feeding? Then have a look at our detailed care page on the Alocasia for all the tips and explanations.
Is an Alocasia air-purifying?
The Alocasia has air-purifying properties. It helps improve the air quality by turning CO₂ into oxygen during photosynthesis and absorbing certain substances from the air. That makes the elephant ear not just beautiful, but useful around the house too.
Is the Alocasia toxic?
Unfortunately, the Alocasia is toxic to people and animals. The plant contains oxalates that can cause irritation if eaten, particularly in the mouth and throat. It's wise to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. Looking for a safe alternative? Then take a look at our pet-friendly houseplants.
Can an Alocasia stand outdoors?
An Alocasia can go outdoors for a while in summer, but only in a sheltered spot out of the fierce midday sun and cold wind. As soon as temperatures drop below 15°C the plant needs to come back inside, because it can't cope with the cold.
Why is my Alocasia dropping its leaves?
An Alocasia drops leaves when it's shedding old foliage or feeling stressed, for instance from too little light, too much water or being moved. That's usually no reason to panic, as the plant will produce new leaves once conditions improve.
How big does an Alocasia get?
Depending on the variety, an Alocasia can reach anywhere from around 50 cm to a full 2 metres tall.
Buying Alocasia houseplants at Green Bubble
When you buy an Alocasia at Green Bubble, it comes straight from the grower. That means you always receive a fresh, strong plant that's ready to grow in your home. All our plants are carefully selected for quality, too.
You get delivery straight to your door and the help of a Personal Plantshopper who'll think along with you to make the right choice. That's a tropical eye-catcher at home without any fuss.
Ready to upgrade your home with a real eye-catcher? Choose your favourite Alocasia and order easily online at Green Bubble.
