Leucocasia Gigantea 'Thailand Giant' - Giant Taro - 15 - 30 cm Plant

Plant Description

Name: Leucocasia gigantea
Common Name: Giant Taro

Leucocasia gigantea, commonly known as the Giant Taro, is an impressive and dramatic tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. This plant is renowned for its enormous, lush foliage and striking appearance, making it a popular choice for bold and tropical garden designs, as well as for indoor tropical plant enthusiasts.

The Giant Taro is characterized by its large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length. The leaves are typically glossy, deep green, and have prominent veins, creating a lush, jungle-like effect. The plant grows from a large corm and can reach a height of 1.5 to 3 meters (5 to 10 feet), with a broad spread of foliage. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers on a central spike, but the main attraction of this plant is its striking foliage. The plant’s leaf stalks are also quite impressive, often showcasing a reddish or purplish tint that adds to its ornamental value.

Cultivation of Leucocasia gigantea

Conditions:

1. Light: Leucocasia gigantea thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. It prefers filtered sunlight, making it suitable for indoor cultivation near bright windows or in shaded outdoor areas. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some protection from the harsh afternoon sun.
2. Temperature: This plant prefers warm tropical conditions with temperatures ranging from 20-30 °C (68-86 °F). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F). It is suitable for USDA zones 9-11.
3. Soil: The Giant Taro prefers well-draining, rich soil. A mix of peat, perlite, and compost provides good drainage and aeration. It can adapt to a range of soil types as long as they are well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
4. Water: Regular watering is crucial for Leucocasia gigantea. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant appreciates high humidity, so consider misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby, especially in dry indoor environments.

Planting and Care:

1. Planting: For indoor cultivation, use a pot with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Choose a location with bright, indirect light. When planting outdoors, select a site with well-draining soil and some protection from harsh sunlight, if necessary.
2. Fertilization: Feed Leucocasia gigantea with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) to support vigorous growth and lush foliage. Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances.
3. Maintenance: Prune off any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant’s appearance and encourage new growth. The plant is relatively low-maintenance but should be monitored for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Growing from Corms

1. Corm Preparation: Select healthy corms for planting. Ensure they are firm and free from mold or rot. If planting multiple corms, space them about 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) apart to allow for their large size.
2. Planting: Plant the corms in a well-draining soil mix, burying them about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) deep. Water thoroughly after planting.
3. Care: Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain high humidity. Protect the plant from frost and harsh conditions. As the plant grows, it will develop large, attractive foliage.

Leucocasia gigantea is a visually stunning plant that adds a dramatic, tropical flair to any garden or indoor space. Its large, lush leaves and impressive size make it a focal point in tropical landscapes and a favorite among plant collectors.