Alocasia macrorrhiza ‘Borneo Giant’
 
Common Names Borneo Giant Elephant Ear, Upright Giant Taro, Giant Alocasia
 
Zones 9B–11
 
Alocasia macrorrhiza ‘Borneo Giant’ is a towering tropical specimen known for its colossal, upright foliage and vigorous growth. Native to the rainforests of Borneo and Southeast Asia, this cultivar is among the largest in the genus, capable of reaching 10–15 feet tall in ideal conditions. Its deeply veined, glossy green leaves can span over 3 feet wide, creating a dramatic canopy effect in tropical landscapes or large-format interiorscapes.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, architectural; fast-growing
Height: 10–15 ft. tall; 6–8 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; corm-based growth with thick basal swelling
Leaves: Heart-shaped to arrow-shaped; glossy green; up to 4 ft. long and 3 ft. wide
Petiole: Thick, green to slightly bronzed; robust and upright
Inflorescence: Rare in cultivation; pale green spathe with white spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced in container culture
Ecology: Selected for extreme leaf size and vertical structure; native to Borneo’s humid lowlands
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light to partial sun; avoid harsh midday exposure
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist; reduce frequency in cooler months
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix; ideal blend includes potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, and compost
Temperature: 65–90°F (18–32°C); protect from frost and cold snaps
Humidity: High (60–90%); misting or humidifiers recommended indoors
Propagation: By division of corms or offsets
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and low humidity; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Best suited for large tropical gardens, shaded patios, and atrium-style interiorscapes. Pairs well with Heliconia rostrata, Philodendron ‘Majesty’, and Colocasia ‘Thailand Giant’ for layered jungle compositions.