Colocasia

Scientific Name: Colocasia esculenta

Common Name: Elephant Ear

Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Blooming Time: July to September

Bloom Duration: 1 to 2 months

Fragrance: No noticeable fragrance

Plant Growing Habit: Upright, clumping, tropical

Characteristics: Grown primarily for its dramatic, oversized heart-shaped foliage that creates a bold tropical effect in gardens and containers. Leaves may be green, black, purple, or variegated depending on the cultivar. Thrives in warm, humid conditions and makes an excellent focal point in landscape plantings, water gardens, and large patio containers.

Spacing: 60 to 90 cm apart

Height: 90 to 180 cm

Width: 90 to 150 cm

Maintenance Requirements: Moderate maintenance. Prefers rich, fertile, moisture-retentive soil and regular watering. Performs best when kept consistently moist and benefits from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Remove damaged or yellowing leaves as needed to maintain appearance. Protect from frost, as plants are not cold-hardy. In colder Canadian climates, tubers should be lifted and stored indoors before winter or grown as seasonal annuals.

Images Courtesy Of Ball Horticultural Company of Ball Seed or www.ballseed.com