Botanical Name
Alocasia species
Common Name
Elephant Ear
Description
Elephant Ear is a spectacular tropical plant renowned for its dramatic large leaves and bold architectural form that creates stunning displays in Australian gardens. This impressive species produces enormous, heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves that can reach substantial proportions, providing striking tropical appeal and excellent screening potential. The glossy, dark green foliage creates attractive coarse-textured coverage that maintains year-round interest in protected positions. Requiring consistent moisture and protection from harsh conditions, it thrives in moist, well-drained soils with good organic content and partial shade to filtered light positions with protection from direct sunlight and wind. Perfect for feature plantings, tropical gardens, and areas where dramatic foliage plants create bold landscape statements in sheltered conditions.
Plant Category
Ferns
Size (H x W)
Height: 1-3 meters, Spread: 1-2 meters
Alocasia species naturally occur in tropical regions of Asia and the Pacific, thriving in moist, well-drained soils with high organic content and partial shade to filtered light exposure in warm, humid climates.
Cultural SIgnificance
While not native to Australia, Alocasia species have become valued in Australian gardens for their dramatic tropical appeal and ability to create lush, exotic displays in suitable microclimates.
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