Huge Alocasia with deeply lobed leaves

Alocasia portei is a massive, tree-like aroid up to 6 metres tall with a trunk that can be 40 centimetres 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 clustered at the top of the stem, erect and spectacular. The petioles can grow up to 1.5 metres long, yellowish to dark green mottled with chocolate colour.

This huge aroid is known as Badiang (giant taro) in Tagalog and is also called the "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, probably 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 allowed him to bring new plants to Europe, especially orchids. Marius Porte died of an unknown disease 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 throughout the year (60-70%). The temperature varies between 9°C and 31°C during the day, with minimum temperatures never falling 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 stem shape and large leaves.

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

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

Use nutritious and well-drained soil, such as our aroid soil . Fertilize regularly with potting soil during the growing season.

Temperatures should be maintained 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 exotic appearance of the leaves. Buy Alocasia portei online!