Alocasia ‘Portora’
 
Common Names Portora Alocasia, Upright Elephant Ear
 
Zones 9B–11
 
Alocasia ‘Portora’ is a bold, architectural hybrid prized for its massive, ruffled foliage and upright growth habit. A cross between Alocasia portei and Alocasia odora, this cultivar combines the tropical drama of elephant ears with a regal, vertical presentation. Its deeply ribbed leaves and thick purple petioles make it a standout in large interiorscapes, tropical gardens, and patio containers.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright, clumping; fast growth rate
Height: 6–8 ft. tall; 4–6 ft. wide
Trunk: Herbaceous; corm-based growth
Leaves: Large, ruffled, arrow-shaped; deep green with prominent veining; 3–5 ft. long
Petiole: Thick, purple to green; sturdy and upright
Inflorescence: Rare indoors; greenish-white spathe and spadix
Fruit: Not typically produced in cultivation
Ecology: Hybrid of A. portei × A. odora; selected for scale and vertical form
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade outdoors
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; allow top 1–2 in. to dry between waterings
Soil: Rich, well-draining mix; ideal blend includes potting soil, orchid bark, perlite, and peat
Temperature: 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost
Humidity: Moderate to high; misting or humidifiers recommended indoors
Propagation: By division of corms or offsets
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and overwatering; not drought-tolerant
 
Landscape Use Best suited for tropical-themed gardens, large patio containers, and spacious interiorscapes. Pairs well with Colocasia ‘Black Coral’, Philodendron ‘Rojo Congo’, and Calathea lutea for layered tropical impact.