Alocasia and Colocasia plants are two types of popular houseplants that are often confused with each other due to their visual similarity However, despite their overlapping characteristics, they are distinct plant species with some notable differences. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between Alocasia and Colocasia to help you better understand and care for these beautiful plants
Appearance and Growth Habits
Alocasia and Colocasia plants look a lot alike at first glance. They both have big, arrowhead-shaped leaves that are why they are called “elephant ears.” ” However, a closer inspection reveals some clear visual differences:
- Alocasia leaves point upward and stand horizontally, while Colocasia leaves point downward.
- Alocasia leaves have a thick, waxy, and glossy texture. Colocasia leaves have a more matte texture.
- Alocasia plants are smaller, reaching 2-6 feet in height on average. Colocasia are larger, typically growing 3-10 feet tall.
- The petioles (stems attaching the leaves) differ – Alocasia petioles extend into the leaves, while Colocasia petioles connect below notches in the leaves.
As tropical perennials with tubers, both types grow quickly, but Colocasia types tend to grow faster than Alocasia types.
Origins and Regions
Alocasia and Colocasia plants trace their origins to different regions
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Alocasia naturally occurs in tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia. There are 79 species originating from these regions.
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Colocasia is native to parts of southeastern Asia and India. It is thought that there are around 15 species originating from these areas.
For their lush, tropical leaves, both are chosen as houseplants for decoration. However, Colocasia is also grown as a food crop called taro.
Care Requirements
While Alocasia and Colocasia thrive in warm, humid environments, they have slightly different care needs:
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Alocasia prefers partial to full sunlight, while Colocasia does best in full sun.
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Alocasia requires high moisture but less watering in winter. Colocasia needs almost aquatic conditions year-round.
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Alocasia thrives in well-draining soil. Colocasia tolerates wet, boggy soil better.
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Water quality also differs – Colocasia tolerates hard water while Alocasia does best with distilled, filtered, or rain water.
Getting these factors right is key to keeping each plant happy and healthy.
Toxicity
One big difference between Alocasia and Colocasia is that Alocasia has calcium oxalate crystals in it, which make it poisonous to people and animals if they eat it. Colocasia tubers can be eaten and are a main source of food in some tropical areas.
So if you have pets or children, take caution with Alocasia and keep it out of reach to prevent accidental poisoning. Colocasia is safer for homes with kids and animals.
Tuber Differences
As mentioned above, both Alocasia and Colocasia grow from an underground tuber rather than seeds. However, the tubers differ in appearance:
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Colocasia tubers are large and swollen with ring-like stripes.
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Alocasia tubers are smaller and narrower without striping.
These tubers allow the plants to survive through dormancy periods and regrow year after year.
Key Identification Points
To quickly tell whether you have an Alocasia vs Colocasia, look for these distinguishing features:
Alocasia
- Leaves point up
- Glossy, waxy leaves
- Smaller stature
- Toxic if eaten
- Narrow, plain tuber
Colocasia
- Leaves point down
- Matte textured leaves
- Larger stature
- Edible tuber
- Large ringed tuber
Once you know what to look for, differentiating these lookalike plants is easy. Keeping their unique care needs in mind will help you grow lush, healthy Alocasia and Colocasia specimens indoors. Their stunning tropical foliage will add drama and interest to any indoor garden.