Alocasia cucullata, a hardy tropical plant

Like other members of the Araceae family, Alocasia cucullata, sometimes called Buddha's Hand or Chinese Taro, is native to the tropical forests of Asia. It is found in India, China and Sri Lanka. But its hardiness means it can withstand temperatures as low as -7 degrees. It can therefore be grown both indoors and outdoors at our latitudes.

How to recognize Alocasia cucullata, the Chinese taro?

A rhizomatous plant with an upright habit, Alocasia cucullata grows up to a metre high and 80 centimetres wide.

While alocasia sanderiana can be recognized by its lance-shaped, colorfully patterned leaves, Alocasia cucullata is distinguished by its heart-shaped leaf blades. The veins are visible, but remain the same color as the foliage: bright green. Another difference: Alocasia cucullata's leaves are smaller. That's why it's nicknamed dwarf elephant ear.

The plant flowers in summer. Spikes of yellow flowers appear at the heart of a yellow or orange spathe. It then gives rise to round, red berries.

Alocasia cucullata is toxic to humans and animals. Its sap causes hypersalivation and vomiting if ingested. It also causes pimples and redness when it comes into contact with the skin.

Our maintenance tips

Alocasia cucullata are not plants to be placed in everyone's hands. They need light, rich soil, a little knowledge and a lot of attention.

Watering

Allow the rootball to dry out to one centimeter between waterings. Water generously with non-calcareous water (rainwater, for example) at room temperature.

Drain off any excess water left in the dish or planter. It can rot the roots.

Spray

Alocasia cucullata like high humidity. Mist their foliage with non-calcareous water, such as rainwater, at room temperature.

Repotting

In spring, transfer your Alocasia cucullata to a larger pot, so that it can continue to grow.

Soak the root ball of your Alocasia cucullata in water at room temperature. Meanwhile, mix ordinary potting soil with river sand or perlite.

In a perforated pot, pour a bed of clay balls or gravel to promote drainage, followed by a layer of soil. Plant your Alocasia cucullata in the center and top up with the rest of the substrate. Press down and water for the first time to ensure good root contact with the soil.

Fertilization

You can stimulate the development of your plant during its growth phase, in spring and summer, with fertilizer.

Feed your Alocasia cucullata with green plant fertilizer.

Cleaning

Dust accumulating on the leaves slows down the photosynthesis process. To keep your Alocasia cucullata growing, clean the leaf blades with a damp sponge.

Remember that alocasia cucullata are toxic. Wear gloves or wash your hands after handling your plant.

Cutting

Cutting is carried out during the strong growth phase, generally in spring and early summer.

To remove the shoots that appear at the base of the plant, carefully remove it from the soil. Separate the young shoots without damaging the root system.

Prepare buckets with potting soil similar to that used for adult plants. Translucent pots are best. You'll be able to monitor root growth.

Place the bulbils on the surface, flat side down and pointed side up. Water and then place your bulbils in a greenhouse or transparent crate.

Diseases / Threats

Red spiders

Mealybug, accompanied by ants for its honeydew.

Mealybugs

Information

Family	Araceae - Araceae
Type	Alocasia - Alocasia
Species	Alocasia cucullata - Alocasia cucullata
Lifecycle	Perennial
Foliage	Evergreen
Exposure	Half-shade
Substrat	Humus soil
Planting methods	In pots In tubs
Categories	Interior Rhizome Herbaceous
Tags	Rustic Toxic
Origin	Southeast Asia
Hardiness (USDA)	11b
Leaf color
Flower color
Fruit color