The ultimate exotic, robust, dramatic, huge-leaved plant to grow outdoors in the United Kingdom. Given permanent moisture (though not actually in water), and partial shade, the leaves will grow to nearly two metres across. Originating in southeastern Brazil, it will reach 2.5 m high and 3-4 m diameter. In full sun it will not grow quite so voluptuously. The foliage is deep veined and prickly. It is deciduous and generally fairly hardy, although early leaves may suffer from a frost. In midsummer a flower spike will grow to about 0.75 metres.