Colocasia esculenta aka Elephant's Ear
Taxonomy ID: 44
Colocasia esculenta, commonly known as taro, is one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world, and is widely grown for its edible corms or roots. It is a root vegetable, a staple food in African, Oceanic, East Asia, Southeast Asian and South Asian cultures (similar to yams). The most impressive variety, Royal Hawaiian® Blue Hawaii Elephant Ear, has stunning sea-green leaves with deep burgundy petioles and veins, making it a great garden or pondside accent plant for a tropical look. Its attractive large heart-shaped leaves remain bluish-green in color with distinctive burgundy veins and burgundy stems, adding to the overall interest of the plant.
Common names
Elephant's Ear, Taro, Elephant EarsMore information about Elephant's Ear
How difficult is it to take care of Elephant's Ear
Elephant's Ear is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
What is the region of origin of Elephant's Ear
Elephant's Ear’s native range is Southeast Asia.
What are the water needs for Elephant's Ear
Elephant's Ear should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Elephant's Ear
Elephant's Ear loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Elephant's Ear
Elephant's Ear requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Elephant's Ear will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
What's the right humidity for Elephant's Ear
The Elephant's Ear is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
How to fertilize Elephant's Ear
The Elephant's Ear should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Elephant's Ear toxic to humans/pets?
Elephant's Ear is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
What is the growth pattern of Elephant's Ear
The Elephant's Ear is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.
Is Elephant's Ear flowering?
If you provide your Elephant's Ear with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
