Elephant's Ear
Macaranga tanarius
Also listed as Croton laccifer, Macaranga molliuscula
Also known as Parasol Leaf Tree, Bingabing, Blush Macaranga
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A tropical tree known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with distinctive pale undersides and unusual umbrellas-like petioles. It is fast-growing and provides ornamental foliage in warm climates.
Why grow it
Macaranga tanarius grows faster than most tropical shade trees, making it useful for quick canopy establishment in warm regions. Its large, pale-backed leaves provide striking visual contrast compared to smaller-leaved alternatives, while the distinctive petioles offer architectural interest. The tree also tolerates poor soils and requires minimal maintenance once established, characteristics that distinguish it from more finicky ornamental species.
Watch out for
Young plants may take several seasons to develop their characteristic leaf size and form, so patience is needed before the ornamental qualities become apparent. The tree's rapid growth habit means it benefits from occasional pruning to maintain desired shape; otherwise it can become leggy or ungainly in crowded planting sites. In containers or confined spaces, regular moisture management is important since fast growth paired with large leaf area increases water demand.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
Native Range
Southeast Asia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A tropical tree known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with distinctive pale undersides and unusual umbrellas-like petioles. It is fast-growing and provides ornamental foliage in warm climates.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Elephant's Ear grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Macaranga tanarius grows faster than most tropical shade trees, making it useful for quick canopy establishment in warm regions. Its large, pale-backed leaves provide striking visual contrast compared to smaller-leaved alternatives, while the distinctive petioles offer architectural interest. The tree also tolerates poor soils and requires minimal maintenance once established, characteristics that distinguish it from more finicky ornamental species.
Watch out for
Young plants may take several seasons to develop their characteristic leaf size and form, so patience is needed before the ornamental qualities become apparent. The tree's rapid growth habit means it benefits from occasional pruning to maintain desired shape; otherwise it can become leggy or ungainly in crowded planting sites. In containers or confined spaces, regular moisture management is important since fast growth paired with large leaf area increases water demand.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Euphorbiaceae
Native Range
Southeast Asia
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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