Night-Scented Elephant Ear
Alocasia odora
Odora
About this plant
Alocasia odora, commonly known as Night-Scented Elephant Ear, is a tropical plant admired for its large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves. It is notable for its fragrant flowers that emit a pleasant scent at night. This plant is often grown as an ornamental houseplant or in shaded garden areas. It adds a lush, exotic look to indoor spaces and gardens.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Alocasia
- Family
- Araceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Alismatales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Japan, China
- Distribution
- Native to East Asia, especially Japan and China; cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial shade
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, Southeast-facing, South-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-27 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
Watering. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Increase humidity by misting or using a humidity tray.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.
Alocasia odora is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid conditions and indirect light. It needs regular watering but should not sit in water to avoid root rot. It benefits from occasional feeding and may need protection from cold drafts.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Division, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves with prominent veins; fragrant night-blooming flowers.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation if ingested or if sap contacts skin. Keep away from children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Alocasia odora may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to its sap. People with plant allergies should handle it with care and wear gloves when pruning or repotting. It does not produce airborne pollen, so pollen allergies are unlikely.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, while too little water leads to drooping leaves. Low humidity may cause leaf edges to brown. Pests like spider mites and aphids can sometimes be a problem.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and fragrant flowers. It can improve indoor air quality.
Notes
Prune dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth. Repot every 1-2 years to refresh soil and allow room for growth. Protect from temperatures below 10°C (50°F).