Alocasia gageana ‘California Aurea Variegata’
 
Common Names California Aurea Elephant Ear, Golden Variegated Dwarf Taro, Yellow Splash Alocasia
 
Zones 9B–11 (outdoors); Zone 7B+ with protection
 
Alocasia gageana ‘California Aurea Variegata’ is a rare, luminous cultivar prized for its golden-yellow marbling across broad, semi-peltate leaves. A mutation of the historic ‘California’ line derived from Alocasia odora, this compact grower offers bold tropical structure in a manageable size. Its aurea variegation is genetically stable—not induced by stress or light—and appears as irregular splashes of yellow and chartreuse over deep green foliage.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, compact; moderate growth rate
Height: 3–5 ft. tall; 2–4 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; rhizomatous base
Leaves: Semi-peltate; glossy green with golden-yellow marbling; 18–30 in. long
Petiole: Thick, green to yellow-mottled; upright and sturdy
Inflorescence: Rare in cultivation; pale green spathe with white spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced in container culture
Ecology: Cultivar of A. odora; selected for aurea variegation and compact form
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to partial sun; variegation remains stable but intensifies with exposure
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; allow top inch to dry between waterings
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix; ideal blend includes potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, and coco coir
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost and cold drafts
Humidity: High (60–90%); misting or humidifiers recommended indoors
Propagation: By division of rhizomes or offsets; ensure each section includes roots and a growth point
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and overwatering; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical container gardens, shaded patios, and high-impact interiorscapes. Pairs well with Philodendron ‘Moonlight’, Colocasia ‘White Lava’, and Calathea ‘Fusion White’ for layered variegation and vibrant contrast.