How to Grow Alocasia (Elephant Ear Plants)

Alocasia, often called elephant ears, are striking tropical aroids prized for their large, patterned leaves. Growing them successfully requires the right mix, warmth, humidity, and balanced nutrition. The fastest way to keep Alocasia thriving indoors or outdoors in warm climates is to combine bright-indirect light, consistent moisture, and feeding with CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20.

At a Glance: Alocasia Growth Essentials

Light: Bright-indirect indoors; dappled shade outdoors (avoid harsh midday sun)
Soil: Chunky, fast-draining aroid mix with organic matter
Water: Keep evenly moist — never bone dry or soggy
Humidity: 50–70% ideal; mist or group plants in drier rooms
Temperature: 18–28°C; avoid prolonged dips below 16°C
Feeding: 2–3 ml/L CompleteGrow 20-20-20 every 7–14 days in the growing season
Dormancy: In cooler months, reduce water & feed very lightly or pause until growth resumes

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Light & Placement

Alocasia evolved under tropical canopies. Indoors, position near an east or north window with sheer curtains; outdoors, use filtered light under a tree or pergola. Direct midday sun burns leaves; too little light results in long, weak petioles and smaller foliage.

Soil & Potting Mix

These aroids need fast-draining yet moisture-retentive media. A typical mix is 40% high-quality potting soil, 30% orchid bark or chunky pine, 20% perlite, and 10% compost or coco coir. This ensures roots get oxygen and avoid rot while retaining enough moisture for steady growth.

Watering Strategy

Alocasia prefer evenly moist roots. Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries, then saturate until water drains out. Avoid letting them sit in saucers. In winter dormancy, water sparingly to avoid rhizome rot. Use rainwater or filtered water where possible to prevent mineral build-up.

Fertilisation & Growth

High nitrogen alone causes floppy growth; what Alocasia need is balanced NPK plus micros. CompleteGrow 20-20-20 provides nitrogen for green lamina expansion, phosphorus for rhizome energy, and potassium for turgor and leaf strength. Apply 2–3 ml/L every 7–14 days in spring–autumn. Flush pots with plain water every 6–8 weeks to prevent salt build-up.

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Seasonal Dormancy & Repotting

Many Alocasia naturally slow down in winter. In cooler states, leaves may yellow and die back, but the rhizome survives. Reduce watering and stop regular fertilising until new growth appears in spring. Repot every 12–18 months into a refreshed chunky mix to prevent compaction and salt accumulation.

Pests, Problems & Prevention

Spider mites: Dry air invites them — increase humidity and wipe leaves regularly.
Yellow leaves: Often from overwatering or nitrogen shortage; adjust care and resume feeding.
Brown edges: Low humidity or potassium deficiency — increase humidity and use balanced fertiliser.
Leaf collapse: Can be linked to root rot; check for soggy mix and repot if needed.

FAQs

Do Alocasia grow outdoors in Australia? Yes — in frost-free climates (QLD, NT, northern NSW) they thrive outdoors; in cooler regions, treat them as indoor or patio plants.
How fast do Alocasia grow? In ideal warmth and feeding, they can push a new leaf every 3–6 weeks during active seasons.
Should I cut back dying leaves? Yes — remove yellow or collapsing leaves to redirect energy into new growth.
Can I propagate Alocasia? Best by division during repotting — separate healthy rhizomes with at least one growth point.