Significance

• Alocasia is not just an attractive landscape addition. Oregon State University reports that the roots of the macrorhiza species are a staple food in many countries such as India and New Caledonia, where the latter country cultivates the plant specifically for consumption. The plant's roots are also eaten in Jamaica, Brazil, New Holland and Tahiti.
  
  

Landscape Uses

• Alocasia leaves can be big and impressive.feuille de alocasia image by Unclesam from Fotolia.com
  
  Alocasias with big leaves grow quite large, reaching 10 feet high and wide. With this in mind, it is often best to plant just one or two of this type in the landscape. Smaller-leaved varieties can be grouped in borders and along walkways. Such dwarf types also do well in containers.
  
  

Planting Location

• Alocasias do best in a warm, humid location in rich soil that holds moisture. They can be grown in sun, but are best placed in partial shade so as to avoid leaf burn. When choosing a planting location, keep in mind that their large leaves are susceptible to wind damage, so plant in a protected area. The foliage will also die back in freezing temperatures, but from USDA hardiness zones 8b and southward, the plant will re-grow from the base when the weather warms.
  
  

Cultural Requirements

• Water alocasias on a regular basis to keep them moist. They are heavy feeders. During the growing season, fertilize with an all-purpose fertilizer according to package directions. They experience few pest problems.
  
  If you live in an area that experiences freezing temperatures, dig up the alocasia tubers in the fall and store in a cool, dry place until spring, at which time you can replant. If you do this over several years, you will end up with very large plants.
  
  

Warning

• It can be tricky to discover the right lighting levels for your alocasia. If grown in light that is too bright, the plant will sunburn. On the other hand, those plants receiving insufficient light will experience leaves that lose their green color and turn black. Ensure that alocasias grown indoors receive enough light by placing them near a bright window.