California Elephant Ear

About this plant

Commanding attention with its impressive size and dramatic foliage, the Alocasia Odora, or California Elephant Ear, is a true garden showstopper. Its immense, glossy green leaves, often reaching several feet in length, evoke a lush, tropical paradise. Ideal for creating a bold statement in shaded borders, large containers, or near water features, this perennial thrives in warm, humid environments. Though it rarely flowers in cultivation, the sheer grandeur of its foliage more than compensates, offering architectural interest and a vibrant green backdrop to other plantings. A rapid grower under optimal conditions, the California Elephant Ear will quickly establish itself, transforming your landscape into an exotic retreat that captivates and delights.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Prefers rich, well-draining soil. Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Protect from strong winds which can damage leaves. In cooler climates, plants can be overwintered indoors or heavily mulched.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.