Alocasia Odora Care

Alocasia odora (Giant Upright Elephant Ear)

Overview

• Large, glossy, upright leaves resembling elephant ears
• Can grow impressively tall with broad, heart-shaped foliage
• Brings bold, architectural presence to interiors or patios
• Best suited for spacious indoor spots with high humidity

Alocasia odora, also known as Giant Upright Elephant Ear, is revered for its towering stems topped with lush, glossy green leaves that can reach several feet in length. Its dramatic scale and structural elegance make it a signature statement piece in any tropical plant collection. At BoDurtha’s, we grow these freeform to celebrate their natural, statuesque silhouette.

Origins

Native to East and Southeast Asia, including China, Taiwan, and Vietnam, where it grows in moist, humid lowland forests and along riverbanks.

Light Requirements

Thrives in bright, indirect light.

• Can tolerate a few hours of direct morning sun
• Too much direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves
• Ideal placement: near an east-facing window or bright, filtered southern exposure

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy.

• Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings
• Drooping leaves can indicate thirst or root stress
• Benefits greatly from high humidity (60%+) to prevent crisping edges

Soil & Potting

Use a moisture-retentive but well-draining Aroid Mix.

• Blend should include coco coir or peat, perlite, bark, and organic amendments
• Ensure pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging
• Large, sturdy pots support its robust root system and tall growth

Fertilizer

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength.

• Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows
• Sensitive to excess salts—flush soil with plain water occasionally

Recommended Growth Style: Freeform

Alocasia odora is best grown freeform to showcase its towering foliage and natural form.

• Does not climb or require staking under typical indoor conditions
• Ideal as a floor plant to bring dramatic vertical structure to interiors or patios

Final Notes

Alocasia odora embodies tropical grandeur, transforming any room into an elegant, lush retreat. Its large, upright leaves create immediate impact with minimal training required. At BoDurtha’s, we recommend placing it in bright, humid environments where its scale and beauty can truly shine.