Elephant's Ear

This Elephant's Ear (Alocasia lauterbachiana) is a rainforest plant with very long, arrow-shaped leaves that ripple along the edges. It reaches about 75cm tall and 80cm wide. Near black stems and dusky purple-grey leaf backs give it a moody, sculptural look that suits a feature pot.

Why you'll love it

• Rippled, elongated leaves. Long blades with wavy edges and strong veining give the plant an architectural outline.
• Near black stems. The very dark purple stems contrast with the green leaves above them.
• Dusky undersides. The backs of the leaves are a deeper green-grey with a gunmetal purple cast.
• Broad reach. At about 80cm wide it fills a corner without help from other plants.
• A natural centrepiece. It looks best as a single specimen in a good pot.

Where it works best

Indoor feature plant. Give it bright light for at least half the day, with no hot direct sun. The leaves droop when it is too dark or too dry, so it signals quickly when conditions slip.

Sheltered gardens in warm climates. If your climate stays between about 10C and 30C, a sheltered tropical or frost-free subtropical garden can work. Space plants 80cm apart if you are grouping several.

Growing Elephant's Ear in Australia

Position and climate. It wants a steady, humid climate between 10C and 30C, with neither cold snaps nor scorching heat. Bright light for half the day or more suits it, but not hot direct sun. In most of the country that makes it an indoor plant, or a sheltered tropical or frost-free subtropical garden plant.

Soil. A free draining potting mix or garden soil that stays moist. Use a pot with good drainage, and stand it on tile or a washable surface, because it may drip harmless sap now and then.

Water and feed. Water a little and often to keep the mix just moist, never soggy. Mist regularly if your air is dry, and give a diluted liquid feed through the warmer months to keep it growing.

Turning and tidying. Turn an indoor pot a little each month so the plant grows evenly. Remove tired leaves at the base, and repot only when roots fill the pot.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Elephant's Ear as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives small, and the long rippled leaves lengthen with each flush of growth. Keep it warm, sheltered and out of direct sun for the first few weeks while it settles. Our grower supplies the tube stock, and supply is not constant. If the tube shows as sold out, the grower has none at that moment, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it returns.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse our elephant ears and alocasias
• Elephant ear plants in Australia: varieties and care
• Tropical foliage plants for indoors
• Plants for balconies and courtyards

Common questions

Why are the leaves drooping?

Drooping means it is too dark or too dry. Move it somewhere brighter, but out of direct hot sun, and check that the compost is moist.

What temperature does it need?

A steady, humid climate between 10 and 30C. It needs no cold and no excessive heat, so keep it away from cold windows and hot reflected sun.

Is it dangerous for pets?

Yes, if chewed. Alocasias contain irritant sap and are toxic when eaten, so keep it out of reach of dogs, cats and children.