Elephants Ears

This stunning houseplant (Alocasia amazonica) is a fairly easy-going house plant. Also known as ‘Kris’ or African Mask plant Alocasia these plants have large, dark-green, glossy, heart-shaped leaves with dramatic patterns created by the plant veins.

Elephants Ears will do best in a bright spot but out of direct sunlight. A bathroom or kitchen is ideal where they will enjoy the extra humidity.

In the spring and summer when the plant is growing it will need to be watered little but often and in the winter only when the top of the pot feels dry. You are aiming to keep the soil damp rather than wet and your plant should never be allowed to stand in water for more than a few minutes.

As your plant grows it can be repotted in a larger pot. Choose rich compost that will hold water well. In the right spot your Elephant’s ear could get to six foot in a couple of years. To restrict growth however, keep slightly cooler and darker and restrict pot size.

Problem solving: Brown tips to the leaves are the result of a dry atmosphere, try giving you plant a good misting and water more regularly. If you plant suddenly wilts or looks sorry for itself, try a new position and a good water.

Warning: The leaves and stems of this plant are toxic if ingested so best kept out of reach of animals and small children.