Also known as Buddha's Hand · Buddha's Hand Taro · Buddha's Palm
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Chinese Taro (Alocasia cucullata) is an Aroid with striking, hooded arrowhead-shaped leaves, prized for its architectural form and lush foliage in tropical and subtropica
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves. Tolerates partial shade.
Keep soil consistently moist
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions, water when topsoil is dry.
Rich, well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures
50% intensity
Prefers 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Regular feeding during growth
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half, monthly in spring/summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid stagnant water, which this plant dislikes.
Remove any yellowing, brown, or damaged leaves as they appear to maintain the plant's aesthetic appeal and health. Prune sparingly to encourage fuller growth.
Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts at the base of the leaf stalk.
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes during repotting. Carefully separate sections of the rhizome, ensuring each piece has at least one healthy shoot and some roots. Plant these divisions in well-draining potting mix.
Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix amended with perlite or sand.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chinese Taro (Alocasia cucullata)
Where Chinese Taro (Alocasia cucullata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Alocasia |
| Species | Alocasia cucullata |
Similar in genus Alocasia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
