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Plant Profiles / Elephant ear
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Elephant ear
Colocasia esculenta · Taro
Huge, heart-shaped leaves in green, black or purple. Instant tropical drama.
Sun to part shadeLight
Keep wetWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Bright.
Water
Keep wet
DryWet
Very thirsty.
Humidity
High
LowHigh
Humidity.
Temperature
12–35°C (54–95°F)
CoolWarm
Frost tender.
Growth
Fast
SlowFast
1–1.5 m.
Soil
Rich mix
LeanRich
Moist.
Fertiliser
Fortnightly
RarelyOften
Nitrogen.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Calcium oxalate.
About this plant
Native to South-East Asia. Loves water and heat; can grow in pots without drainage holes.
Best spots
Sunny or part-shaded balconies and pond pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Colocasia esculenta |
| Family | Araceae |
| Origin | South-East Asia |
| Plant type | Tuber |
| Mature size | 1–1.5 m |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Foliage | Giant leaves |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Dormant
Active growthDormant
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Brown edges | Dry. |
| Yellow | Hungry. |
| Torn | Wind. |
| Dieback | Cold. |
| Mites | Humidity. |
Common questions
Water?
Lots.
Toxic?
Yes.
Pots?
Yes.
Winter?
Dies back.
