Ozzy

Alocasia lauterbachiana

Elephant’s ear

• 
  Most light conditions
• 
  Easy care

• Ozzy likes...
  • 
    Regular watering

    In warm months, check him weekly and water him if the top inch of soil feels dry. Water him less in winter.

  • 
    Medium light

    He likes a spot that gets lots of light but isn’t right next to a window (he doesn’t love direct sun).

  • 
    Humidity

    He likes moist air. You can keep his leaves good and healthy by misting them a couple of times a week.

• Quick facts

  Botanical name

  Alocasia lauterbachiana

  Nickname

  Elephant’s ear

  Air purifying

  Yes

  Plant height

  70-80cm

  Pet/Baby safe

  Toxic if ingested

  Nursery pot size

  19cm

• About Elephant’s ear

  Alocasia is popularly known as Elephant’s ears for the shape of its leaves. This is a slimmer version than most. In the wild, you’ll find it in the jungles of SouthEast Asia and New Guinea. Left to its own devices, it could grow as tall as four metres (it won’t do that inside).

  Those unusual leaves are not just for show. The dramatic purple underside helps the plant absorb as much light as possible. That’s because Alocasia are used to living in dappled forest light. They need to suck up all the available sun. That’s also why it’s best not placed in direct sun in your home. It’s not built for it.

  This plant requires a little more attention than most. Make sure to keep its soil moist (not soggy) and mist it regularly. Plus, of course, give it plenty of room, because this is a big’un.

  Did you know?

  There are 79 species of Alocasia. Maximum respect to you if you can name them all.