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Alocasia odora (Night-Scented Lily)

Night-Scented Lily, Asian Taro, Giant Upright Elephant Ear

Alocasia odora, Night-Scented Lily, Asian Taro, Giant Upright Elephant Ear, Fragrant Alocasia, Fragrant Plants,
Alocasia odora, Fragrant Alocasia, Alociasia, Tropical Plant, Houseplant, Indoor plants

Alocasia odora, commonly known as Night-Scented Lily or Giant Upright Elephant Ear, is a striking perennial that adds a lush, tropical feel to any setting. Its majestic foliage and aromatic blooms make it a favorite among gardeners and indoor plant enthusiasts.

Alocasia odora – Night-Scented Lily: An In-depth Look

Alocasia odora features large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that stand upright on long, sturdy stalks. Its leaves can reach impressive sizes, creating a dramatic visual impact. This plant is also known for its fragrant flowers, which add a sensory delight to its already stunning appearance.

Native: This species is native to East and Southeast Asia, thriving in the warm, humid climates of regions like China, Japan, and Taiwan. It grows in the understory of forests, where it receives filtered sunlight. Alocasia odora belongs to the Araceae family, commonly known as the Arum family. This diverse family includes other well-known plants like Zantedeschia (Calla Lily), Caladium (Angel Wing), and Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant).

Plant Type and Habit: Alocasia odora is a tropical rhizomatous perennial with an upright growth habit. It forms a clump of large leaves that emerge directly from the rhizome, creating a dense, bushy appearance.

Size: In optimal conditions, Alocasia odora can grow up to 4-8 feet tall (120-240 cm) and 4-6 feet wide (120-180 cm), with individual leaves reaching 2 feet (60 cm) in length or more. Its substantial size makes it a focal point in any garden or indoor space.

Flower: Reminiscent of calla lily flowers, the blossoms consist of a pale peach spathe and spadix. They are wonderfully fragrant, most particularly at night, and bloom in late spring through summer. The seedpods, packed with shiny red berries, are unexpectedly bold.

Foliage: Its broad, paddle-shaped leaves are the plant’s standout feature, with a deep green color and a glossy finish that catches the light beautifully. Resembling the ears of an elephant, lustrous, brilliant green, paddle-shaped leaves are borne on strong stems. Large, they can reach 2 feet in length (60 cm) and 1 foot in width (30 cm). They are arrow-shaped at their bases and stand upright, pointing skyward, unlike the leaves of Colocasia which droop and point toward the ground. The new leaves are almost lime green and glow nicely until they begin to age and are upstaged by younger leaves.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. While it prefers warm, humid environments, Alocasia odora can tolerate cooler temperatures but not frost. It thrives in heat and humidity.

Uses: Alocasia odora is used both as an ornamental outdoor plant in warm climates and as a statement indoor plant. It can also be planted in large containers for patios or indoor spaces, adding a tropical touch.

Toxicity: Alocasia plants are toxic if ingested, containing calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation of the mouth, throat, and stomach in humans and pets.

Invasiveness: Though not typically considered invasive, Alocasia odora can spread through its rhizomes. In tropical climates, where conditions are ideal, it should be monitored to prevent unwanted spread.

Benefits: Besides its ornamental value, Alocasia odora can help purify the air. It’s also relatively easy to care for, given the right environmental conditions, making it a rewarding plant for gardeners.

How to Grow and Care for Alocasia odora Indoors

By providing the right care and conditions, your Alocasia odora can become a stunning indoor centerpiece, bringing lush, tropical beauty to your home environment.

Light: Alocasia odora prefers bright, indirect light. An east-facing window that offers soft morning sunlight or a south-facing window with diffused light is ideal. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little can lead to leggy growth. Rotate your plant periodically to ensure even growth on all sides.

Soil: Use a well-draining, rich potting mix. A combination of peat, perlite, and organic compost works well to ensure adequate drainage and retain sufficient moisture. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral.

Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Alocasia odora is sensitive to both over and under-watering, so finding a balance is key. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant’s growth slows.

Temperature and Humidity: Alocasia odora thrives in warm conditions, ideally between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Avoid placing it near cold drafts or heating vents, as drastic temperature changes can stress the plant. This plant loves high humidity, reflecting its tropical origins. Maintain high humidity levels around the plant through regular misting, using a humidifier, or placing it on a pebble tray filled with water. Bathrooms with natural light can be an excellent location due to their naturally higher humidity.

Fertilization: Feed your Alocasia odora with a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every month during the growing season (spring through summer). Pause fertilizing in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.

Cleaning: Clean leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and help the plant photosynthesize efficiently.

Repotting: Repot in the spring every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent overwatering.

Alocasia odora, Fragrant Alocasia, Alociasia, Tropical Plant, Houseplant, Indoor plants

How to Grow and Care for Alocasia odora Outdoors

Growing Alocasia odora outdoors can transform your garden into a lush, tropical paradise, given the right conditions.

Climate and Hardiness: Alocasia odora is best suited for outdoor growth in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, where temperatures do not typically drop below 20°F (-6°C). In cooler zones, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during colder months.

Light: Alocasia can manage full sun conditions, particularly if it’s provided with enough water to keep the soil consistently moist. However, in areas with intense midday sun or during hot summer months, it’s advisable to position your Alocasia in a location where it can receive partial shade or filtered sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Morning sun followed by afternoon shade is ideal to prevent leaf scorch while ensuring the plant receives enough light for healthy growth. Provide a sheltered location to protect the decorative leaves from strong winds.

Soil: This plant prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amend the planting site with organic compost to enhance soil structure and fertility. Ensure the planting area does not collect standing water to avoid root rot. When planting, ensure the top of the root ball is just slightly below the ground level.

Water: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Alocasia odora’s watering needs will depend on your climate and soil type; in hotter, drier conditions, more frequent watering may be necessary. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool.

Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer to support vigorous growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant.

Pruning: Remove any yellowed or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking its best and to encourage new growth. Alocasia odora can grow quite large, so give it plenty of space to expand both above and below ground.

Winter Care: In areas where frost or freezing temperatures are a concern, Alocasia odora should be grown in pots and brought indoors to a bright, indoor location before the first frost. If planted in the ground, apply a thick layer of mulch to protect the roots from cold.

Alocasia odora Propagation – A Step-By-Step Guide

Propagating Alocasia odora can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to multiply your collection of this exotic plant. The most effective method for propagating Alocasia odora is through division.

Best Time: The ideal time for propagating Alocasia odora is in the spring or early summer when the plant is entering its active growth phase.

Remove the Plant: Carefully take the parent plant out of its pot, gently removing the soil around the roots to better see the rhizomes or tubers.

Identify Division Points: Look for natural separations or offsets—sections of the plant that have their own roots and at least one or two leaves. These will become your new plants.

Divide: Using your clean, sharp tool, carefully cut the rhizomes or tubers to separate the offsets from the main plant. Ensure each division has roots attached.

Pot Up: Plant each division in its own pot filled with the appropriate potting mix. The pot should be just big enough to accommodate the roots and allow for growth.

Water Gently: After potting, water each new plant thoroughly, letting excess water drain away. This helps settle the soil around the roots.

Aftercare: Place the pots in a location where they will receive bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. Maintain high humidity around the new plants, either by misting regularly, using a humidifier, or placing the pots on a pebble tray with water. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Alocasia odora likes damp conditions but is susceptible to root rot in overly wet soil. Wait a few weeks before fertilizing the new plants to give them time to establish.

Alocasia odora: Pests, Diseases, Common Problems

Alocasia odora, while a stunning tropical plant, can encounter several pests, diseases, and common issues, particularly when not in its ideal environment.

Pests

Spider mites: These tiny pests thrive in dry conditions and can cause the leaves to appear speckled and pale, eventually leading to serious damage if not controlled. Regular misting and wiping the leaves can help prevent them.

Mealybugs: These white, fluffy pests feed on the plant sap, weakening the plant. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Scale insects:  These can appear as small brown bumps on the stems and leaves, sucking the sap and reducing plant vigor. Scrape them off or treat them with neem oil.

Aphids: These small, green pests suck sap from new growth. Rinse them off with water or treat the plant with neem oil.

Diseases

Root rot: Overwatering is a common issue with Alocasia odora, leading to root rot. Ensure the potting mix is well-draining and reduce watering in cooler months.

Leaf spot diseases: Caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leaf spot presents as discolored spots on the foliage. Improving air circulation and avoiding wetting the leaves when watering can help prevent this issue.

Common Problems

Yellowing Leaves: Over- or underwatering can cause leaves to yellow. Adjust your watering schedule to ensure the soil remains moist but not soggy.

Drooping Leaves: This may indicate either a watering issue or insufficient light. Ensure your Alocasia odora receives bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.

Brown Leaf Edges: Low humidity can cause the leaf edges to brown and crisp. Increase humidity around the plant with a humidifier or pebble tray.

Learn How To Plant, Care and Grow Splendid Elephant Ears


Often grown for their dramatic foliage reminiscent of elephant ears, Colocasia and Alocasia are terrific tender perennials that provide a strong ornamental interest and quickly give a touch of the tropics in gardens or containers. Impossibly exotic, their architectural shapes make them perfect for planting as focal plants or massed to create a tropical effect. Easy to grow, they stand proud and bold provided some basic rules are respected.

Requirements

Hardiness 9 - 11
Heat Zones 8 - 11
Climate Zones 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Houseplants, Perennials
Plant Family Araceae
Genus Alocasia
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Winter
Height 4' - 8'
(120cm - 240cm)
Spread 4' - 6'
(120cm - 180cm)
Spacing 48" - 72"
(120cm - 180cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers
Garden Styles Mediterranean Garden
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
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Alternative Plants to Consider

Alocasia cucullata (Chinese Taro)
Alocasia baginda ‘Pink Dragon’ (Elephant Ear)
Alocasia x amazonica ‘Bambino’ (African Mask)
Alocasia cuprea ‘Red Secret’ (Elephant Ear)
Alocasia ‘Stingray’ (Elephant Ear)
Alocasia ‘Dragon Scale’ (Elephant Ear)

Find In One of Our Guides or Gardens

Alocasia (Elephant Ear)
30 Best Indoor Plants for Adding Color and Life to Your Home
Learn How To Plant, Care and Grow Splendid Elephant Ears
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

Hardiness 9 - 11
Heat Zones 8 - 11
Climate Zones 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Houseplants, Perennials
Plant Family Araceae
Genus Alocasia
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Winter
Height 4' - 8'
(120cm - 240cm)
Spread 4' - 6'
(120cm - 180cm)
Spacing 48" - 72"
(120cm - 180cm)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Average
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Patio And Containers
Garden Styles Mediterranean Garden
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Not sure which Alocasia (Elephant Ear) to pick?
Compare Now

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