The “giraffe plant” is a common name for Alocasia macrorrhiza, a striking tropical plant also known as Giant Taro or Upright Elephant Ear. Its tall stems and large, upward-pointing leaves give it this nickname, making it a dramatic focal point.
Identifying the Giraffe Plant
Alocasia macrorrhiza is recognized by its robust stature and prominent foliage. Its thick, prominently-veined, arrow-shaped or heart-shaped green leaves can reach 3 to 6 feet in length and 2 to 4 feet in width. These substantial leaves grow on rigid stalks, or petioles, which jut vertically from an upright trunk, giving the plant its “giraffe” or “elephant ear” appearance.
This species is one of the larger Alocasia members, reaching 12 to 15 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide outdoors. Indoors, its size is more contained but still impressive. Native to Southeast Asian and South Pacific rainforests, it thrives in warm, humid environments.
Essential Care for Giraffe Plants
Caring for Alocasia macrorrhiza involves replicating its natural tropical habitat. Consistent attention to light, water, soil, temperature, and humidity helps this plant flourish.
Light Needs
Alocasia macrorrhiza prefers bright, indirect light, mimicking the dappled sunlight it receives under a rainforest canopy. Direct sun can scorch its large leaves, particularly intense afternoon sun. However, a couple of hours of gentle morning sun can be beneficial. Insufficient light may lead to lopsided growth, stunted leaves, and issues like root rot due to overly moist soil.
Watering Practices
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out slightly before watering again, especially for potted plants. Overwatering is a common problem that can lead to root rot, while underwatering may cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and brown leaf edges. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Soil Requirements
Alocasia macrorrhiza thrives in rich, well-draining soil that also retains some moisture. A good potting mix for container-grown plants includes peat-based soil amended with perlite or vermiculite to improve aeration and drainage. An ideal pH range for the soil is slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.7 and 6.5. This specific soil composition supports the plant’s robust root system and prevents waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, Alocasia macrorrhiza prefers warm conditions, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It is not tolerant of cold temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and should be protected from cold drafts. High humidity, ideally above 50-60%, is also crucial for its health. To increase humidity indoors, you can mist the leaves regularly, place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, or use a humidifier.
Fertilizing
Alocasia macrorrhiza is a heavy feeder due to its rapid growth. During spring and summer, fertilize every two to four weeks with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer. Reduce or pause fertilization in fall and winter when growth slows. Always apply fertilizer to damp soil to prevent root burn.
Growing and Expanding Your Collection
Expand your Alocasia macrorrhiza collection through careful repotting and propagation.
Repotting Your Plant
Repot your Alocasia macrorrhiza every two to three years, or when you notice it has become root-bound. The best time for repotting is in the spring or early summer, which allows the plant to recover quickly during its active growth period. Choose a new pot that is only one size larger than the previous one, ensuring it has good drainage holes. When repotting, gently remove the plant, shake off excess soil to expose the roots, and then place it in the new container with fresh, appropriate potting mix.
Propagating New Plants
The most common method for propagating Alocasia macrorrhiza is through division of its rhizomes or corms, best done in spring or early summer. Carefully unpot the plant and gently shake off excess soil to reveal the root system. Look for natural divisions where separate sections have at least one growing point and some roots. Using a clean, sharp knife or shears, cut the rhizome into these sections.
Each new division can then be potted individually in fresh potting mix and watered thoroughly. Place newly potted divisions in a warm spot with bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity.
Troubleshooting Common Giraffe Plant Problems
Even with diligent care, Alocasia macrorrhiza can experience common issues indicating environmental stress or pest presence.
Yellowing leaves often signal watering problems, either too much or too little; adjust your watering schedule to ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy. Brown leaf edges or crispy leaves point to low humidity, which can be remedied by increasing ambient moisture around the plant. Drooping leaves may also indicate watering issues or insufficient light, requiring an assessment of both moisture levels and light exposure.
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions and can cause speckling on leaves. Mealybugs and aphids feed on plant sap, weakening the plant. These pests can often be managed by wiping leaves with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol, spraying with neem oil, or using diluted soapy water.
Important Safety Notes
Handle Alocasia macrorrhiza with care, as all parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause irritation if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin. Symptoms of ingestion in humans or pets can include a burning sensation and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and throat, excessive salivation, difficulty swallowing, and stomach discomfort.
Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid irritation from the sap. Keep Alocasia macrorrhiza out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. If ingestion occurs, rinse the mouth with water and offer sips of clear fluids or ice chips to alleviate discomfort.