Elephant's ear (Alocasia 'Portora')

Overview

Alocasia ‘Portora’, a spectacular type of Elephant’s ear, is highly valued by gardeners for its massive, tropical presence. This selection produces glossy, scalloped foliage held high on sturdy, reddish-purple leaf stalks, rapidly creating a dramatic focal point in the landscape. It is engineered for upright growth, reaching heights up to six feet or more in a single, vigorous growing season.

As a tuberous and herbaceous perennial, Alocasia ‘Portora’ provides unmatched texture and scale, closely related to traditional taro plants. While hardy in warmer climates (Zones 7-10), it is frequently treated as an annual or overwintered container specimen elsewhere for its impressive, fleeting summer display. Successful cultivation relies on ensuring adequate moisture and providing protection from harsh winds.

The sheer size and architectural nature of this Elephant’s ear make it indispensable for adding instant drama. Whether tucked into a mixed border or showcased as a singular specimen, Alocasia ‘Portora’ guarantees a lush, jungle-like atmosphere. Gardeners should plan for regular feeding to maximize the development of its large, impressive leaves.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Araceae
• Plant Type: Bulb
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7-10
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 5-6 ft
  • Spread: 4-5 ft
• Bloom Time: Flowers not showy
• Bloom Description: White
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Medium

How to Grow

Planting Alocasia ‘Portora’ should occur after all danger of frost has passed, as these tropicals are susceptible to cold damage. They thrive best when placed in locations receiving part shade or filtered sunlight, nestled in soil that is rich in organic matter and consistently moist. For gardeners in marginal zones, rhizomes or tuberous roots are easily started indoors in containers several weeks before setting them out after the last frost. Pots can be partially buried directly into the garden design for easy retrieval later.

Ongoing care requires diligence, as Alocasia ‘Portora’ is a heavy feeder and drinker during the growing season. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, and employ a consistent fertilization schedule to support the rapid emergence of those large leaves. Protect the plant from strong gusts, as high winds can shred the tender foliage of this beautiful Elephant’s ear.

Winter preparation is critical outside of Zone 10. Before the first hard fall frost, tubers must be lifted if planted directly in the ground. If grown in containers, move the pots inside before temperatures drop. Overwinter these pots in a cool (60–65°F) and relatively humid environment, reducing watering significantly during dormancy. Tuberous types should be dug, dried slightly, and stored in a cool, dry location until spring planting.

Landscape Uses

The bold structure provided by Alocasia ‘Portora’ makes it an exceptional architectural specimen or accent plant. Its upright habit contrasts wonderfully with low-growing or fine-textured plantings, instantly drawing the eye. Use it to define entryways or anchor the corners of perennial beds where height is needed for dramatic effect late in the season.

This large Elephant’s ear excels in containers, especially when paired with softer, trailing annuals to enhance the tropical mood. Groupings of Alocasia ‘Portora’ create an immediate, jungle-like screen or backdrop for seating areas. Ensure containers are large enough to accommodate the mature spread of 4 to 5 feet.

For mixed borders, try combining Alocasia ‘Portora’ with plants that enjoy similar moist, rich conditions, such as large ferns or Canna lilies. Its presence effectively transforms any garden space, offering a vacation vibe even if you are located far from the tropics. Plan groupings carefully, remembering that these plants can quickly grow large enough to shade smaller neighbors.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Insignificant

Noteworthy Characteristics

Alocasia is a genus of around 80 species of tuberous, herbaceous perennials native to the tropics and subtropics of Asia and Australia, closely allied to Colocasia (taro). Plants are cultivated as ornamentals and are prized for their showy foliage, with leaves heart to arrowhead-shaped, held atop long, sturdy succulent stems. ‘Portora’ is a large, upright selection of elephant’s ear that features glossy, scalloped foliage held on sturdy, purple-tinged petioles, maturing up to 6 feet tall.

Tolerances

• Wet Soil

Potential Problems

The primary immediate threat to a healthy Alocasia ‘Portora’ is pest infestation, most notably spider mites. These tiny pests thrive in hot, dry conditions, but even well-watered plants can suffer damage, particularly when grown indoors or close to structures that reduce air circulation. Inspect the undersides of the large leaves regularly for signs of fine webbing or stippling.

Management often involves physical removal; use a strong jet of water to dislodge visible mites. For persistent issues, application of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil is effective against spider mites on this otherwise robust Elephant’s ear. Ensure good air movement around the large foliage when possible to discourage future outbreaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Elephant’s ear suitable for?

Alocasia ‘Portora’ is hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 10, meaning tubers will need to be lifted in autumn if winter temperatures are expected to drop below 5°F in Zone 7b.

How large does Alocasia ‘Portora’ grow?

This cultivar typically reaches a mature height between 5 and 6 feet tall, with a comparable spread ranging from 4 to 5 feet wide.

What sun exposure does Alocasia ‘Portora’ need?

This Elephant’s ear performs best when situated where it receives full sun to part shade; filtered sunlight is often ideal to prevent leaf scorch during the hottest parts of the afternoon.

When does Alocasia ‘Portora’ bloom?

Flowering is not a primary feature of this plant, as its blooms are considered not showy, typically presenting as small white structures characteristic of the aroid family.

Conclusion

Alocasia ‘Portora’ remains a premier choice for gardeners seeking unmatched tropical stature and texture with minimal long-term commitment outside warmer regions. Its glossy foliage and commanding height make it an unforgettable garden accent. Before planting your Alocasia ‘Portora’, confirm that your soil remains moist and rich, and plan your overwintering strategy if you reside outside of Zones 7-10.

Companion Planting

Choosing companions that share the cultural needs of Alocasia ‘Portora’ ensures a cohesive, vibrant tropical display. Since this Elephant’s ear requires consistently moist, rich soil, pair it with plants that appreciate similar conditions after spring planting. Consider large-leafed hostas (in shadier spots), cannas, or flowering ginger varieties to layer textures below or beside the towering stalks of the Alocasia.

Avoid planting overly aggressive, shallow-rooted perennials directly adjacent to the Portora, as they will compete heavily for the water and nutrients this large plant demands. For a dazzling contrast in color, place smaller, bright annuals like coleus or impatiens around the base of the container or garden bed where they can handle the filtered light cast by the massive leaves above.

Design Ideas for Overwintering

For gardeners planning to dig and save the corms annually, utilizing large, handsome containers is an excellent strategy. Place Alocasia ‘Portora’ in a decorative pot (at least 15-20 gallons capacity) during the summer so it can be easily moved indoors before the first frost. This technique minimizes soil disturbance and protects the valuable tuberous roots.

When bringing the container inside for winter dormancy, ensure the spot is cool—around 60–65°F—and slightly humid. Reduce watering drastically; the soil should remain barely damp, not wet, throughout the colder months. By treating the plant as a patio feature that retreats indoors, you guarantee a massive statement plant ready for re-entry into the garden every late spring.