Upright Elephant Ear Alocasia Plant

Alocasia odora, 'Upright Elephant Ear', commonly called Night-scented Lily, is a lush, dramatic, and vibrant plant that gives any garden a touch of the tropics. These well-liked plants, which can be grown in the garden, pots, or even indoors, provide consistent color and texture all summer long. They can grow up to 5 feet tall in one summer!

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in late spring or early summer after the last frost date when the soil has warmed

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 5.5-7.0

Watering Specifics:

• - Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time
• - Supplement with a high-nitrogen, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season

Pruning and Training:

• - No major pruning is necessary, but trimming can help control the size in containers

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for common pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs
• - Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat any infestations as needed

Blooming Indicators:

• - Primarily grown for its large, dramatic foliage rather than its flowers

Light Requirements:

• - Thrives in partial shade to full shade

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Prefers warm temperatures between 65-85°F
• - Can tolerate high humidity, making it ideal for tropical gardens or indoor settings

Companion Plants for Alocasia:

• - Coleus: Their vibrant, textured foliage contrasts beautifully with the bold leaves of Alocasia
• - Canna Lilies: Their large, tropical flowers complement the dramatic foliage of Alocasia
• - Hostas: The lush, shade-loving foliage of hostas provides a beautiful backdrop for Alocasia
• - Caladiums: The colorful, heart-shaped leaves of caladiums blend well with Alocasia in shaded gardens