Alocasia macrorrhizos, commonly known as Giant Taro or Giant Alocasia, is a perennial herb native to the understory of tropical rainforests in Maritime Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Queensland. It has also been widely cultivated in South Asia and the Pacific Islands. This plant can reach up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) in height and 8 feet (2.4 meters) in width, with large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) long on sturdy, succulent stems. The leaves are a deep green color and can create a dramatic tropical effect in the garden. Giant Taro blooms with a yellow to white spathe and spadix, but the flowers are not particularly showy compared to the foliage. It does not typically produce notable berries or fruit.

Giant Taro is valued for its bold foliage and architectural form, making it a striking feature in tropical-themed gardens, as a specimen plant, or in large containers. It is also grown for its edible corms and leaves, which are an important food source in Pacific Island cultures. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil, high humidity, and partial to full shade conditions to mimic its native rainforest habitat. While it can be a beautiful addition to the right environment, it is potentially invasive in some regions and can outcompete native vegetation. Gardeners should check local regulations before planting and manage its spread responsibly.CC BY-SA 4.0