The Alocasia 'Calidora' Persian Palm Plant, Elephant Ear

The Alocasia Calidora is one of the biggest plants in the alocasia species, also known as the elephant ear plant. They are popular for their huge arrow-shaped leaves that attract attention no matter where they’re placed. The Alocasia Calidora plant is native to tropical and subtropical parts of Eastern Australia and Asia, coming from the alocasia and Colocasia species. It belongs to the Araceae family, having different names such as elephant ear alocasia and taro.

In terms of cultivation, the plant is widely cultivated in Borneo, with the tropical species having the ability to grow up to 13 feet tall. In gardens and homes, it may grow up to 5-9 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide in vases or pots.

Light: This plant would thrive in bright and filtered light. For it to grow well, avoid it from being exposed to the two extremes, which are either placing it in complete shade or under direct light. For those who want to grow an indoor calidora plant, it’s best to place it in a north or southwest-facing window. This will give it the right amount of light to reach the plant. Or, you can also grow this plant with artificial grow lights, as long as they are not positioned directly on it.

Watering: The Alocasia Calidora has the same watering requirements as the usual houseplant. Because it is tropical and subtropical, it needs watering every other day. With that in mind, find the balance in your waterings, as too little or too much would lead to a lot of serious issues. Allow the plant’s soil to dry up a bit before you water it. Don’t let it dry up completely or be drenched. Before you water your plant, see if it needs watering first by checking the first 2 inches of the soil. You can also use a moisture meter, which can measure the moisture content of soil accurately.

This plant is known to be toxic to both animals and humans.