Alocasia and Colocasia are two popular flora in the gardening world , often confound due to their similar coming into court . However , there are some distinct difference between the two that can help you differentiate them .

1 . Leaf Orientation : The most noticeable deviation between Alocasia and Colocasia lie in the orientation of their leaves . Alocasia leaves tend to point upward , while Colocasia leaves typically droop downwards . This is due to the direction the leaf stems connect to the main stalk . In Colocasia , the prow connect from the notches in the leaves , cause them to hang down . On the other hired man , Alocasia leave have stems that plug into to the bottom of the leaf , induce them to channelise upwards .

2 . Leaf Shape and Texture : Another discern feature of speech is the shape and texture of the leaves . elephant ear leaves are unremarkably larger and have a more elongated shape , resemble an arrowhead or shield . They often have prominent veins running through them , adding to their unique appearance . In contrast , Colocasia leaves are by and large circular and broader , with a heart - shaped or triangular precis . The texture of Alocasia leave is usually smoother and more glossy , while Colocasia leaves can be more rough-textured and mat .

3 . Coloration and Patterns : Both Alocasia and Colocasia come in a variety of colors and patterns , but there are some difference in the common variations . Alocasia plants often demo vivacious and striking coloration , with leaves range from cryptical green to shade of purple , flushed , or even black . They may also boast contrasting pattern , such as vein in contrasting colors or vary foliage . Colocasia , on the other hand , typically has foliage in shades of green , although some varieties may have darker or lighter variation . While there are variegated Colocasia cultivars available , they are less common compared to Alocasia .

4 . Growth Habit and Size : In terms of increase habit , Alocasia flora are in general more compact and erect , growing in a clumping fashion . They tend to have a more upright growth radiation diagram , with leaves growing in a more erect guidance . Colocasia , on the other handwriting , has a more go around growth wont and can form larger thumping . The leaves of Colocasia may spread out more horizontally , giving the plant a broader appearing .

5 . frigid Tolerance : Alocasia works are typically less cold - patient of compared to Colocasia . While both plants prefer warm and tropical mood , Alocasia may struggle with colder temperatures and frost . Colocasia , on the other hand , is known to be more resilient in moth-eaten conditions and can even outlast light frosts in some suit . However , it ’s of import to note that extreme coldness can still damage or toss off both plants .

Alocasia and Colocasia may share some similarities in terms of their overall visual aspect , but key departure in leaf predilection , shape , grain , colour , increase habit , and cold tolerance can aid differentiate between the two . Observing these characteristics can assist you in correctly identifying these industrial plant and understanding their alone attributes .

Caroline Bates