Huge Alocasia with deeply lobed leaves

Alocasia portei is a massive, tree-like aroid up to 6 meters tall with a trunk that can reach 40 centimeters in diameter at the base. This impressive Alocasia develops a thick, upright, trunk-like sheath that thickens with age.

The leaves are few in number and gathered at the top of the stem, upright and spectacular. The leaf stalks can reach up to 1.5 meters in length, yellowish to dark green mottled with chocolate color.

This enormous aroid is known as Badiang (giant taro) in Tagalog and is also called "Malaysian Monster" in cultivation.

Botanical description

Alocasia portei is endemic to the Philippines, specifically Luzon, although the species is anecdotally reported to be common and widespread in the Philippines. Botanical collections have been made on very few occasions, likely due to its enormous size.

The species was named after the French botanist Marius Porte. Born in Marseille, France, he left in 1834 to explore tropical countries and stayed in Brazil until 1859, after which he traveled to Borneo, Singapore, and the Philippines. He was the first to experiment with shipping plants wrapped in sphagnum moss, which enabled him to bring new plants to Europe, particularly orchids. Marius Porte died of an unknown illness on the island of Luzon in 1866.

The plant occurs in secondary forest at low to medium altitudes in a tropical humid climate with moderate humidity year-round (60-70%). Temperatures range between 9°C and 31°C during the day, with minimum temperatures never dropping below 7°C.

Care

Alocasia portei requires a lot of space due to its enormous size. Give the plant plenty of room to develop its characteristic trunk form and large leaves.

Place in bright, indirect light. In dark corners, grow lights are needed. Keep the humidity high, preferably 60-70%.

Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season. The plant appreciates consistent moisture but should not stand in water. Therefore, proper soil is important.

Use nutrient-rich and well-draining soil, e.g., our aroid soil. Fertilize regularly with houseplant fertilizer during the growing season.

Temperatures should be kept above 7°C, preferably between 18-30°C for optimal growth. Protect from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.

Alocasia portei can take many years to reach full size but is an impressive plant even when young, mainly due to the appearance of the exotic leaves. Buy Alocasia portei online!