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Alocasia odora (G.Lodd.) Spach

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Alocasia odora (G.Lodd.) Spach
  • Common Name: "Giant Taro," "Night-Scented Lily," and "Odora"

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia
  • Features: Thrives in tropical climates; its large, glossy green leaves and strong night-time fragrance make it a standout in gardens and as a houseplant; can reach up to 1.5 meters in height

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Alocasia
  • Botanical Background: Initially described by George Loddiges, this species was later classified by Spach in the 19th century. Known for its ornamental use, Alocasia odora has been a subject of botanical studies due to its large size and striking flowers.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in tropical regions of Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
  • Environment: Thrives in warm, humid environments, typically growing along forest floors in tropical regions; prefers moist, well-drained soils and moderate to high humidity, with a temperature range of 20°C to 30°C.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Large, arrow-shaped, and glossy
  • Rich green color
  • Can reach up to 45 cm long and 30 cm wide, with smooth surfaces and pronounced veins

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Pale green spathe with a white spadix
  • Produces a strong fragrance at night, which is characteristic of its name "Night-Scented Lily"
  • Fragrance attracts nocturnal pollinators

Growth Habit

  • Terrestrial species that grows from a rhizome
  • Not epiphytic and requires a solid base for growth
  • Can reach a height of 1.5 meters in ideal conditions

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light
  • Direct sunlight may scorch its large leaves, so filtered light or partial shade is optimal

Watering & Humidity

  • Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging
  • High humidity is essential for healthy growth
  • Ideal for humidifiers or misting if grown indoors

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Well-draining soil is necessary, ideally a mix designed for tropical plants
  • A peat-based mix with added perlite or orchid bark works well
  • Ensure the container has good drainage

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Prefers temperatures between 20°C to 30°C
  • Balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Typically done through rhizome division
  • Ensure that each division has at least one healthy shoot or root to establish a new plant

Seeds

  • Not commonly used for propagation due to the difficulty in germinating them

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs
  • Root rot can occur if overwatered or kept in poorly draining soil

Treatment Recommendations

  • Insecticidal soaps or neem oil are effective treatments for pest infestations
  • To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Strong fragrance emitted by the flowers of Alocasia odora at night is a notable characteristic, attracting nocturnal pollinators
  • Used for medicinal purposes, although it should be handled with care due to its toxic properties
  • Highly prized for its large, glossy foliage and the unique fragrance of its flowers
  • Often used as an ornamental plant in tropical gardens and as an indoor specimen in suitable climates

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • There are no immediate conservation concerns
  • Remains widely distributed in its native range
  • Habitat loss in tropical areas poses a general threat

Market Availability

  • Commonly available in nurseries and garden centers, especially in tropical and subtropical regions
  • Also cultivated as a popular ornamental plant

References & Resources

Further Reading

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