Hello! I'm a

Alocasia Portodora

Latin name

Alocasia Portodora

Pronounciation

Al-oh-KAY-see-uh Por-toh-DOR-uh

Common name

Giant Upright Elephant Ear, Alocasia Odora ‘Portora’

Origin

Native to Southeast Asia and is particularly prevalent in regions of India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.

How easy am I to care for?

Buy one of my cousins from the nursery:

Alocasia Portodora, often referred to as the Giant Upright Elephant Ear or Alocasia Odora ‘Portora,’ is a striking and grandiose tropical plant that commands attention with its remarkable size and distinctive foliage. This robust specimen belongs to the Alocasia genus and is a captivating addition to any indoor or outdoor tropical garden.

Caring for your plant

Light

Alocasia Portodora thrives in bright, indirect light. To mimic its native habitat, place it near a window with filtered sunlight or provide dappled shade outdoors. Protect it from direct sunlight, as this can scorch its large, lush leaves. Adequate lighting ensures vigorous growth and maintains the plant’s striking appearance.

Watering

Proper watering is crucial for the Alocasia Portodora. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. During the growing season (spring and summer), you may need to water more frequently. In contrast, reduce watering in the dormant winter months to prevent root rot. Ensure that the pot has good drainage to avoid water accumulation.

Pruning

While Alocasia Portodora doesn’t require regular pruning, you can trim off any yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain its aesthetic appeal. Use clean, sharp pruning shears and make clean cuts at the base of the affected leaf stems. Pruning helps the plant allocate resources to healthier growth.

Feeding

Fertilizing Alocasia Portodora is essential for its optimal development. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for tropical plants. During the growing season, apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks, following the recommended dilution instructions on the product label. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to nutrient imbalances and damage the plant.

Pest & Diseases

Alocasia Portodora may occasionally attract common indoor plant pests like aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs. Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for signs of infestation, such as discoloured or distorted foliage. If pests are present, treat the plant promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to mitigate the issue. Ensure good air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal diseases, as this species prefers higher humidity levels.

Mill Pond Nurseries,
Mill Road,
Henham,
CM22 6AA

T: 0345 505 3333
E: enquiries@planteriagroup.com

Privacy & Cookies |Terms & Conditions