| Description: |
A very large growing, evergreen, ôelephant earö that may reach eight feet (240cm) in height although the stem itself rarely stands erect for more than a couple of feet before leaning and producing more roots where it touches. Leaf stalk about equal in length to the massive blade. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in bright indirect sunlight coming from the East/West |
| Soil Type: |
A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take:
1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime.
Always use a pot with a hole.
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| Watering: |
Keep the soil on the wet side and if you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed every two weeks with a water soluble fertilizer diluted by half. An alternative is a granular slow release fertilizer if applied annually in the early spring. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to mealy bugs, spider mites. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Division of rhizomes
at anytime.
After dividing the rhizomes plant them in their regular potting mix.
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| Gardening Tips & Care: |
Place pebbles or gravel in the drainage dish to hold water and increase the humidity, make sure the pot is sitting on the gravel and not in the water. Mist occasionally with warm water (lime free to avoid leaf staining).
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| Toxicity: |
Species of this Genus can be harmful to pets. |