There are plants with large leaves that are very interesting to consider since they provide a certain uniqueness that is always useful when thinking about garden design.
The Alocasia It has these characteristics and that is why it is popularly known as Elephant eardue to the size of its leaves, which are reminiscent of the ears of these animals.
Large leaf plant
In other places Alocasia is called Marquesa, Manto Santa María, Taro de Jardín or Yam from the Canary Islandsin many cases referring to the size of their leaves. You can find this plant in tropical places, especially in shady areas because it is a species that should not be exposed to direct sun since the sun’s rays burn the plant or its leaves become discolored.
The Alocasia macrorrhiza belongs to the family Araceae and is native to Tropical Asia, Oceania and the tropics of South America. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors but always taking into account the issue of sun exposure.
There are more than 70 species although the best known are the Alocasia Cupreawhich is purple-green, the Alocasia SandrianaDark green in color but with metallic ribbing and silvery edges; the Alocasia Macrorrhizawhose leaves are of a bright green tone and protruding veins and the Alocasia Indicawhich gives away its bronze colors.
Regardless of the version we are talking about, the Elephant ear It is a perennial plant that has sagittate leaves that can reach a length of up to one meter, similar to the size of the animal’s ear. The height can reach 5 meters and the leaves fall in the winter to regrow the following year.
The allowance which
If you want to have it in the garden, you will have to place it in a special place, always taking care that it is protected from the sun. On the other hand, it is one of those plants that must be given importance given its particular leaves, so I recommend placing it in a privileged place, perhaps somewhat secluded, so that it can then shine.
As for The allowance whichYou can have your little plant either by seeds or by cuttings. To select them you must remove them from the base of an adult plant. It is important to maintain the humidity of the soil because it is a plant of tropical origin, so you have to be constant and regular, always keeping the soil moist. It is recommended that the water temperature range between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius for best results.
The plant needs a liquid fertilizer twice a year, both in the spring and in the summer, but remember to choose one that is designed for plants with leaves. In case of growing it in a pot, the ideal is to transplant it every two years due to the growth of the plant.
