philodendron elephant ear plant types

Is an elephant ear plant a philodendron?

Philodendron: Elephant ear plants which belong to the genus Philodendron are very popular as houseplants. This genus consists of around 900 species, and is considered as the second largest genus of the family Araceae.

How do you care for an elephant ear philodendron?

Keep the soil evenly moist, but allow it to dry out between waterings. Feed your Philodendron in the spring and again in mid summer with a liquid house plant fertilizer. Wash the leaves regularly to prevent the pores from becoming plugged with dust.

Is alocasia a philodendron?

is that "philodendron" is any of several climbing plants, of the genus Philodendron, native to America and the West Indies that are often grown as house plants and "alocasia" is any of several tropical Asian plants, of the genus Alocasia, having heart- or arrowhead-shaped leaves.

Can elephant ears grow in pots?

Plant corms 2-4 feet apart, 4-6 inches deep in moist, well-drained soil high in organic matter. You can grow the smaller varieties in large containers. ... If growing in containers you'll have to keep the soil evenly, constantly moist. Elephant Ears come in a wide variety of colors and sizes.

Do elephant ears need lots of water?

Water Considerations

Elephant ears are water-loving plants. They need at least moist, organically rich soil, but constantly moist soil is preferable, especially in warm months. You can decrease your watering schedule for the plants in winter, when they don't need as much water as they do other times of the year.

How fast do split-leaf philodendron grow?

In general, you should expect at least one new leaf to grow every 4-6 weeks. As the plant ages and grows bigger, it can produce even more leaves per month as it will have more growth points. Growth rate can be increased depending on how humid the environment is, and how much access to sunlight the plant has.

Do elephant ears like coffee grounds?

The caffeine in coffee also suppresses some plant growth and too much of it will suppress the growth of elephant ears. ... If you use coffee grounds as a mulch around your elephant ear plant it will block moisture from getting to the plant.

Can elephant ears take full sun?

Can elephant ears grow in full sun? Full sun is not ideal for most—they grow best in bright but indirect sunlight. Too much sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little sunlight can cause yellowing.

Do elephant ear bulbs multiply?

When to Divide Elephant Ears

Elephant ears can become huge plants with gigantic leaves. Many spread through underground runners, or stolons, and send up baby plants along the way. ... Since it is not actively growing, the plant will be less stressed than if you divide it while it is in full growth mode.

What is the difference between a pothos plant and a philodendron?

Philodendrons have more heart-shaped leaves that are thinner with a soft texture. Pothos, on the other hand, have leaves that are larger, thicker, and waxier. These leaf differences are especially noticeable in the area where the petiole connects to the base of the leaf.

Do Alocasias like to be root bound?

Alocasias plants like to be root-bound in small pots, so don't rush to put them into larger pots. Quickly remove any yellow leaves or those that develop brown or black spots as that may be a sign of a fungal disease. ... An alocasia becomes dormant for several months during the late fall and winter.

Can you root alocasia in water?

Propagating Alocasia | Water propagation

It's a very decorative way to grow houseplants and they can actually thrive in water pretty much indefinitely with the right care. To grow your Alocasia offset in water, simply clean any soil off its roots and find a container that you like to place it in.

Where is the best place to plant elephant ears?

Elephant Ears perform best in sun or part shade. While most can be grown in partial shade, the darker colored varieties are best grown in full sun. Provide a sheltered location to protect the decorative leaves from strong winds.

Are elephant ears poisonous to dogs?

What is Alocasia (Elephant Ear) Poisoning? The elephant ear plant is a houseplant with giant pointed leaves that look like elephant ears. This plant may be nice to look at, but it can be toxic to your dog. In fact, it can even be fatal if not treated right away.

Do elephant ears have flowers?

Elephant ears (Alocasia) are grown and best known for their attractive foliage not the flowers. These tropical beauties, like other plants, will bloom when they reach maturity and receive the perfect growing conditions.

Why do elephant ears drip water?

Water when the soil starts to feel a little dry. If your Elephant Ear plant gets too much water, it will let you know by “weeping” or dripping water from the tip of the leaf.

Are elephant ears poisonous to touch?

Elephant Ear Plant Safety

The leaves and stems are the most toxic parts of the plants. Even touching them can cause skin irritation and itching, and if you get the sap in your eyes, your eyes will sting and burn for several hours. ... Elephant ear poisoning is rarely fatal, unless large amounts are eaten.

How much light do split leaf philodendrons need?

It will need a spot with indirect light and regular watering to thrive. Outdoors split-leaf philodendron is hardy in zones 8b through 11. It prefers to have rich soil that stays moist but doesn't flood or have standing water. It likes full sun, but it will also grow well in partial shade and indirect light.

Do split leaf philodendron like to be root bound?

A split leaf philodendron likes to have plenty of room for its roots. Larger pots encourage larger leaves.

Do Philodendrons like full sun?

While philodendrons are native to tropical, frost-free areas, they will also thrive in the low humidity found in most homes. Grow philodendrons indoors in indirect light, as direct sunlight can cause burning on the leaves.