Elephant Ear Plant: Care Tips, Varieties, and Growing Guide

The elephant ear plant might be the perfect choice if you’re looking for a tropical showstopper to add dramatic flair to your home. Known for its massive, heart-shaped leaves that resemble elephant ears, this plant brings instant jungle vibes to any space. Keep reading to learn more about this gorgeous tropical plant and what it needs to thrive.

What Type of Plant Is The Elephant Ear Plant?

The elephant ear plant is a tropical perennial from the Araceae family, prized for its bold, oversized foliage. The term “elephant ear” refers to several related genera, including Colocasia, Alocasia, and Xanthosoma. These plants naturally grow in warm, humid regions of Asia and the South Pacific, often thriving near water sources.

Colocasia vs Alocasia

While they’re often grouped together and both referred to as “elephant ears,” Colocasia and Alocasia are distinct plants with key differences:

• Colocasia, commonly known as taro, dasheen, or elephant ear (often confused with Alocasia) has a wide range of uses across food, medicine, culture, and ornamental gardening. Unlike Alocasia, many Colocasia species are edible when cooked, making them an important crop in tropical regions all over the world.
• Alocasia has leaves that point upward or outward (similar to an arrowhead), growing best in well-draining soil with moderate watering. It’s typically the choice for indoor tropical décor. 

Rare Leaf Addict specializes in growing the Alocasia genus of elephant ear plant. For the remainder of our article, that is the plant to which we will be referring. 

Elephant Ear Plants vs Philodendron

At first glance, elephant ear plants and philodendrons may look similar because they both have large, tropical-looking leaves. However, they belong to different genera and have different traits.

Elephant Ear:

• Leaves often have prominent veins, glossy surfaces, and dramatic shapes.
• Many species have upright, architectural foliage that grows from tuber-like rhizomes.
• Colors range from bright green to deep purple or almost black, sometimes with silvery or contrasting veins.

Philodendron:

• Leaves vary widely depending on the species: they can be heart-shaped, lobed, split, or elongated.
• Typically have a softer, more tropical look with matte or slightly glossy foliage.
• Many are vining or climbing plants, though some grow upright.
• Common varieties (like Philodendron hederaceum) have smaller, thinner leaves than Alocasia.

Do Elephant Ears Like Sun or Shade?

Elephant ear plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate partial shade, especially outdoors. They will scorch under direct sunlight. If growing indoors, place your plant near an east- or north-facing window where it gets plenty of light without harsh afternoon rays.

How Do You Take Care of an Elephant Ear Plant

Again, elephant ear plants like filtered, indirect sunlight indoors or partial shade outdoors. In addition to proper light requirements, keep the following in mind when caring for your elephant ear plant:

• Water: Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Avoid letting it dry out completely.
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity. Mist leaves regularly or use a humidifier indoors.
• Soil: Use rich, well-draining soil; amend with compost or peat moss.
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during the growing season (spring, summer, fall).
• Temperature: Keep above 60°F (15°C). As with most tropical species, these plants don’t like cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.

What Are Some Popular Varieties?

There are dozens of stunning elephant ear varieties, each with unique leaf shapes and colors. Popular options include:

• Alocasia Chantrieri Pink: a gorgeous variant with splashes of pale pink on iridescent leaves. 
• Alocasia Ninja Albo: variegated with patches of white and cream (and sometimes very pale pink)
• Alocasia Azlanii: similarly variegated but with shades of red: burgundy, brick, umber, or sienna. For this reason, it is also called “Red Mambo.”

Are Elephant Ear Plants Toxic?

Elephant ear plants are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mouth and throat irritation, burning, or swelling. Always keep them out of reach of curious pets and children.

Is It True That Elephant Ear Plants Cry?

Elephant ear plants sometimes “cry” in high-humidity or overly moist conditions. This is a process where water droplets form and drip from the leaf tips. This happens when the plant expels excess moisture through specialized pores. It’s a sign that your plant is well-hydrated, though it can also indicate slightly too much water.

Where to Buy an Elephant Ear Plant

Ready to bring the tropics to your home or garden? Shop rare and exotic elephant ear plant varieties, at Rare Leaf Addict. Explore our curated selection of vibrant, healthy plants that make a bold statement in any space.