Alocasia vs. Colocasia — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 6, 2024
Alocasia and Colocasia, both belonging to the Araceae family, differ mainly in leaf orientation and usage; Alocasia leaves point upwards, while Colocasia leaves point downwards.
Difference Between Alocasia and Colocasia
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Alocasia, often called the Elephant Ear or African Mask plant, features leaves that typically point upwards and have a glossy texture. On the other hand, Colocasia, also known as Taro, has leaves that droop or point downwards.
The root of Colocasia, commonly known as taro root, is widely used in culinary dishes around the world, particularly in Asian and Pacific Island cuisines. Whereas, Alocasia's roots are generally not edible due to their high oxalic acid content, which can be toxic.
Alocasia plants are prized in the horticultural world for their ornamental value, showcasing distinctive veining and sometimes colorful leaves. Conversely, Colocasia is cultivated more for its agricultural value than for decoration, although its leaves also add aesthetic value to gardens.
In terms of growth habit, Alocasia tends to be more upright and structured, which makes it popular for indoor and ornamental use. Colocasia, with its more sprawling growth, is often used in large plantings or as a food crop.
Watering needs also differ; Alocasia requires well-draining soil and less frequent watering, reflecting its need for more controlled water conditions. Colocasia thrives in wetter conditions, often growing naturally near ponds and other water bodies.
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Comparison Chart
Leaf Orientation
Leaves generally point upwards
Leaves droop downwards
Edibility
Roots generally toxic and not edible
Roots widely eaten, known as taro
Primary Use
Ornamental, primarily for decorative purposes
Agricultural, both for ornamental and edible uses
Growth Habit
Upright and structured
Sprawling and can grow in water-logged conditions
Watering Requirements
Prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering
Thrives in moist, almost swampy conditions
Compare with Definitions
Alocasia
Requires less water compared to its relatives, thriving in well-draining soil.
Overwatering can lead to root rot in Alocasia plants.
Colocasia
Leaves are large, lush, and heart-shaped, often drooping toward the ground.
The large leaves of Colocasia are not only functional but also visually striking in a garden.
Alocasia
A genus of broad-leaved rhizomatous or tuberous perennials from the family Araceae.
The striking Alocasia 'Polly' is popular for its angular leaves and vibrant veins.
Colocasia
The root of Colocasia, taro, is a staple food in many tropical regions.
Taro root is often used to make poi in Hawaiian cuisine.
Alocasia
Known for their dramatic foliage used in ornamental displays.
Alocasia adds a tropical flair to any indoor setting with its bold leaf structure.
Colocasia
Grows best in wet environments and can be found in water gardens.
Colocasia can thrive alongside ponds where the soil remains moist.
Alocasia
Contains high levels of oxalic acid in the roots, making them inedible.
Despite its lush appearance, the roots of Alocasia are not safe to eat.
Colocasia
A genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, known commonly as taro.
Colocasia esculenta is extensively cultivated as a root vegetable for its edible, starchy corm.
Alocasia
Popular in the houseplant industry for its aesthetic appeal.
Alocasia is often featured in interior design magazines for its sculptural qualities.
Colocasia
Used both as food and ornamental plant in various cultures.
In addition to its culinary uses, Colocasia is also planted for its aesthetic value in tropical-themed gardens.
Alocasia
Alocasia is a genus of broad-leaved, rhizomatous, or tuberous perennial flowering plants from the family Araceae. There are 97 accepted species native to tropical and subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia.
Colocasia
Colocasia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, native to southeastern Asia and the Indian subcontinent. Some species are widely cultivated and naturalized in other tropical and subtropical regions.The names elephant-ear and cocoyam are also used for some other large-leaved genera in the Araceae, notably Xanthosoma and Caladium.
Alocasia
Any of several tropical Asian plants, of the genus Alocasia, having heart- or arrowhead-shaped leaves.
Colocasia
(uncommon) Taro; eddo.
Alocasia
Any plant of the genus Alocasia having large showy basal leaves and boat-shaped spathe and reddish berries.
Colocasia
A small genus of perennial tuberous herbs of the arum family, of tropical Asia and the Pacific islands, including the taro (Colocasia esculente).
Alocasia
Any plant of the genus Alocasia having large showy basal leaves and boat-shaped spathe and reddish berries
Colocasia
Small genus of perennial tuberous herbs of tropical Asia: taro
Common Curiosities
Where should I plant Colocasia in my garden?
Colocasia thrives in moist, wet areas, so planting near a water source like a pond or in a boggy area would be ideal.
Can you eat Alocasia?
No, Alocasia plants are generally not edible due to their high oxalic acid content, which can be toxic.
How often should Alocasia be watered?
Alocasia should be watered moderately, ensuring that the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
How can I differentiate Alocasia from Colocasia in a nursery?
Look at the leaf orientation—Alocasia leaves generally point upward and are stiffer, while Colocasia leaves tend to droop downwards.
What kind of environment does Colocasia prefer?
Colocasia prefers a humid, wet environment and can even tolerate standing water, making it perfect for wet garden areas.
Can Colocasia leaves be used for any purpose?
Yes, in addition to the roots, Colocasia leaves are also edible when cooked and are used in many traditional dishes, often as a wrapping material for steamed recipes.
Is Alocasia suitable for indoor cultivation?
Yes, Alocasia is very popular as an indoor plant due to its ornamental value and manageable size for most varieties.
What is the primary difference between Alocasia and Colocasia?
The primary difference is in their leaf orientation and usage: Alocasia leaves point upwards and are mainly ornamental, while Colocasia leaves droop downwards and the roots are commonly consumed.
What are the culinary uses of Colocasia?
Colocasia roots, or taro, are used in a variety of dishes, ranging from stews and curries to snacks like chips and even desserts in some cultures.
What are some common issues with growing Alocasia?
Common issues include overwatering leading to root rot, under-watering leading to drooping
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
