The Colocasia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae, alson known as Elephant Ear Plant and native to southeastern Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The genus includes six to seven species, depending on the taxonomic treatment. They are commonly known as elephant’s ear, heart of Jesus, or taro. The Colocasia is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid climates and plenty of water.
It is not frost-tolerant and will die back in cooler weather, but will quickly regrow from the roots when the weather warms up again. The plant has large, heart-shaped leaves that can be up to three feet long and two feet wide.
The leaves are attached to a thick, fleshy stem that can grow up to six feet tall. The Colocasia produces small, yellowish-white flowers that grow in clusters. The flowers are followed by small, black berries.
How to care:
To care for an elephant ear plant, water it regularly and fertilize it monthly. Place the plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. When the weather turns cooler in fall, dig up the plant and store it indoors over winter.
Water requirement:
The Elephant Ear Plant is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid climates and plenty of water. It is not frost-tolerant and will die back in cooler weather, but will quickly regrow from the roots when the weather warms up again.
Fertilizer requirements:
Apply a water-soluble high-nitrogen fertilizer every two to three weeks.
Pests and diseases:
The most common elephant ear plant disease is fungal leaf blight. Pythium rot can cause plants to die and is often the result of soil remaining saturated for several days or weeks.
Propagation:
While elephant ears can’t be propagated from cuttings like many plants, you can divide the tubers of a healthy parent plant. Do this in the fall, then plant the tubers in containers or store them for the winter and plant them outdoors in the spring.
Landscape uses:
There are a number of uses for elephant ears in the garden. These plants come in a variety of colors and sizes. Elephant ear plants can be used as background plants, ground covers, or edging, especially around ponds, along walkways, or patio enclosures. Their most common use, however, is as an accent or focal point.