TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA


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Colocasia sp., Elephant Ear, Mafafa, Taro Root

Colocasia sp.

Elephant Ear, Mafafa, Taro Root
Family: Araceae
Origin: Polynesia and southeastern Asia
USDA Zone: 9-11?
USDA Plant Hardiness MapLarge shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall plant 2-5 ftSemi-shadeFull sunRegular waterBog or aquatic plantOrnamental foliageSubtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short timeFlood tolerant plant

Colocasia sp. (Elephant Ear) is a native plant to Polynesia and southeastern Asia. It is a large shrub, growing anywhere between 5 and 10 feet tall, although there are also smaller varieties as short as 2 to 5 feet in height. It prefers to grow in full sun or semi-shade, making it especially suited to bog or aquatic habitats, requiring regular watering to thrive.

The plant is known and grown primarily for its ornamental foliage, with the large elephant ear-shaped leaves providing a spectacular display. Although it is not cold hardy, the mature plant can tolerate temperatures in the low 30s Fahrenheit for a brief period of time. It is also extremely flood tolerant, being able to survive underwater for up to three months at a time.

In USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11, Colocasia sp. can be grown outside with minimal effort and care. In areas with a colder climate, the plant needs to be grown in a pot and protected from freezing temperatures during winter. During the growing season, it needs plenty of sunlight and water; it is not drought tolerant, and will wilt if not properly watered. If growing the plant in a container, use an appropriate sized pot filled with potting soil, and ensure that the soil is properly drained.

Colocasia sp. (Elephant Ear) is a low maintenance plant that provides a spectacular display in the summer and is a popular choice for gardeners in warm climates. In cooler regions, it requires some extra care and attention to ensure the plant's survival during cold winter months.


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Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/colocasia_sp.htm

Colocasia antiquorum Illustris

Illustris Colocasia is a classic beauty. The heart-shaped, large purple-and-green leaves of Illustris are huge, and their dark highlights are stunning. This elephant ear is a lover of moist shade, but does best with a little dappled sunlight. It will tolerate boggy conditions. Provide light shade to full shade and consistently moist or boggy soil. It is a strong fast growing variety that does great in container, landscapes, ponds and patios.

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
This item is certified for shipping to California.
Grown in
6-10"/1-3 gal pot
In stock
$29.95