TheNaturePlanet

Alocasia macrorrhiza, also known as Alocasia odora or giant taro, is indeed toxic. The entire plant contains highly toxic substances, especially the underground rhizome, which is extremely poisonous. The alkaloids contained in Alocasia macrorrhiza are the main source of its toxicity. These substances can bind to nerve cells in the body, interfere with the normal functioning of the nervous system, and thus produce a series of toxic side effects. When the skin comes into contact with its sap, it can cause itching. If the eyes accidentally come into contact with it, it may lead to blindness. If the roots, stems, or leaves are ingested, symptoms such as itching and swelling of the tongue and throat, excessive salivation, burning pain in the stomach and intestines, as well as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, and convulsions may occur. In severe cases, asphyxia and cardiac paralysis may occur, endangering life.
Therefore, when handling Alocasia macrorrhiza, strict protective measures must be taken, such as wearing gloves and goggles, to avoid skin or eye contact with its sap. In case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with clean water immediately and seek medical attention promptly.
Both Alocasia macrorrhiza and Alocasia cucullata are plants of the Araceae family, but they have significant differences in many aspects:
Species Difference: Alocasia macrorrhiza belongs to the genus Colocasia, while Alocasia cucullata belongs to the genus Alocasia.
Height Difference: The height of Alocasia macrorrhiza plants usually does not exceed two meters. In contrast, Alocasia cucullata is a perennial herb with rapid growth, and the height of an adult plant can reach about four to five meters.
Leaf Shape Difference: The leaves of Alocasia macrorrhiza are cordate, about 1.3 meters long and 1 meter wide, and the petioles have a lot of white powder. In comparison, the leaves of Alocasia cucullata are relatively smooth, without white powder. They are ovate in shape, with the leaf tip curving downward, and there is often a dripping phenomenon, so it is named Alocasia cucullata (dripping beauty).
Application Difference: Besides its ornamental value, the leaves and roots of Alocasia macrorrhiza have high nutritional value and are a kind of green food with relatively high edible efficacy, which can be made into different delicacies. Alocasia cucullata, on the other hand, is mainly a large shade - loving foliage plant. It is toxic and inedible. In the south, Alocasia cucullata is more suitable for garden cultivation, mainly for leaf - viewing. In the north, it is mostly used as an indoor potted ornamental flower.
Stem Difference: The stems of both Alocasia cucullata and Colocasia can grow quite long, but the stem of Alocasia cucullata is relatively thick, while the stem of Colocasia is relatively thin.
Alocasia macrorrhiza is indeed toxic and requires careful handling and use. Alocasia cucullata is mainly an ornamental plant and is inedible. Understanding the differences between the two helps to avoid safety risks caused by accidental ingestion or misuse.