Family: Araceae
Scientific name: Alocasia robusta
Common name: Borneo Giant
Origin: Borneo

The leaves of this species grow gigantic and are the largest of all Alocasia species. In Borneo's rainforest, they can reach a length of up to 4 metres and a width of 2.5 metres. This only concerns the leaf surface, as the leaf stalk can also reach a length of 3 metres with a thickness of 30 cm at the same time. In the 1990s, a researcher (Anthony Lamb) measured a leaf with a size of 4.57 metres and this would be the largest undivided leaf in the world. Unfortunately, he has no proof of it, so the Guinness Book of Records did not record this measurement. 

The species grows only in Borneo and particularly in open areas in the rainforest. The inflorescence consists of a dark purple spathe and a white-pink spadix. The female flowers produce orange-red berries containing 1 seed. 

As a houseplant, it remains smaller than in the rainforest, but under the right conditions it can still grow very large. Provide a well-drained, constantly moist soil. Plant nutrition can help for fast and good growth. Humidity is best kept above 60% and the leaves can be watered regularly. Choose a light location without direct sunlight. 

Sowing description: The seed can develop (further) in Sphagnum moss at 25 to 30grC. When a first leaf forms, it can be transferred to well-drained soil with organic matter. 

Sowing time: Year-round
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 12 degrees Celsius