Source: Wikimedia Commons
Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand
BeginnerAlocasia cucullata
A compact Alocasia with glossy heart-shaped leaves forming a leafy clump. Its stems branch from the base and readily produce offsets.
About
Alocasia cucullata is a perennial aroid whose true native range is unclear, as it is known only from cultivation and from plants around settlements. It has long been grown across Asia, including China, India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, and has been introduced to Pacific islands and Central America; in Japan it also occurs in the Ryukyu and Ogasawara Islands. Thick stems branch from the base and reach about 1 m, bearing glossy heart-shaped blades up to 40 x 28 cm with four prominent main veins on each side. It is clearly smaller and glossier than A. odora and forms a clump of offsets. Flowers and fruit are rare. In Laos and Thailand it is planted at Buddhist temples as a bringer of good luck. The whole plant contains calcium oxalate. It is a common houseplant in Japanese garden centres and online shops. In Japan its flowers have been shown to be pollinated by Colocasiomyia flies. It is prone to spider mites, so check leaf undersides in dry seasons.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand
The Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand grows to Up to about 1 m tall; blades up to 40 x 28 cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand
The ideal temperature for the Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand is 20〜25℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Long cultivated in Asia (true native range unclear)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Up to about 1 m tall; blades up to 40 x 28 cm
Temperature
20〜25℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Regular feeding in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Prefers part shade or filtered sun. Indoors, keep near a bright window behind a sheer curtain.
Watering
Keep moist in the growing season, watering thoroughly when the surface dries. Water sparingly in winter.
Temperature & Overwintering
Overwinter indoors in a humid, fairly cool room of about 16-18°C. Keep frost-free.
Soil & Repotting
Use an organically rich, moisture-retentive mix. Repot in spring to early summer when offsets crowd the pot.
Propagation
Easily propagated by removing offsets. It is vigorous enough that stem or root pieces left in soil will sprout.
Pests & Cautions
Watch for spider mites and aphids; overwatering causes spots and rot. It contains calcium oxalate, so keep it away from pets and children.
Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand?
The ideal temperature for Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand is 20〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand get?
The mature size of Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand is Up to about 1 m tall; blades up to 40 x 28 cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand?
Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand: watering & fertilizer — Regular feeding in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand?
The price of Chinese Taro / Buddha's Hand varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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