Alocasia lauterbachiana
 
Common Names Purple Sword, Lauterbach’s Elephant Ear
 
Zones 9B–11 (outdoors); Zone 7B+ with protection
 
Alocasia lauterbachiana is a striking tropical species known for its long, sword-shaped leaves with scalloped edges and deep purple undersides. Native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea, this upright grower adds vertical drama and moody contrast to interiorscapes and shaded garden beds. Its thick, zebra-striped petioles and fast-growing habit make it a favorite among collectors seeking bold foliage in a manageable size.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, architectural; moderate to fast growth
Height: 3–4 ft. tall; 2–3 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; rhizomatous base
Leaves: Sword-shaped; glossy green with scalloped margins and purple undersides; 18–30 in. long
Petiole: Thick, striped; green to dark purple
Inflorescence: Rare in cultivation; pale green spathe with white spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced in container culture
Ecology: Native to lowland tropical forests; adapted for high humidity and filtered light
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to part shade; avoid harsh direct sun
Watering: Allow top 2 inches of soil to dry before watering; reduce in winter
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 cold drafts and frost
Humidity: High (60–80%); misting or humidifiers recommended indoors
Propagation: By division of rhizomes or offsets
Tolerance: Sensitive to overwatering and low humidity; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical container gardens, shaded patios, and modern interiorscapes. Pairs well with Philodendron ‘Dark Lord’, Calathea ‘Dottie’, and Colocasia ‘Black Magic’ for layered moody foliage compositions.