Colocasia esculenta (Black colocasia)

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Several popular varieties of Colocasia

These varieties can add a mix of colors, shapes, and textures to your garden, creating a beautiful and diverse display.

Botanical name: Colocasia esculenta

Common names: Black colocasia, Black Magic, Taro, Black Elephant Ear, Malanga Amarillo, Dasheen

Family: Araceae

Origin: South America

USDA Zone: 8-10?

Subtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

In cold climates, overwinter a large container in a garage. Plant this cultivar for a unique presentation and enjoy its beautiful foliage in full sun. Colocasia esculenta, or Black Colocasia, is a small plant growing between 2-5 feet tall, and is native to South America. It is perfect for adding an unusual color and ornamental foliage to any outdoor space. Its leaves are heart shaped and large, up to 20 inches long, and are matt black with purple leaf stalks. It is a great choice for use in a bog or aquatic environment, and is tolerant to floods. It is adaptable to both full sun and semi-shade, and will survive temperatures as cold as the mid-20s F for a short time, making it great for growing in USDA Zones 8-10.

To get the most out of Black Colocasia, it's best to grow it in a rich, fertile and moisture retentive soil. It will thrive in a sunny spot, however if it's in the shade, the leaves tend to turn dark green. It is also available as a varietal sport, such as 'Mojito', which boasts incredible contrasting blacks and greens and light green stems streaked with dark purple. This cultivar is more compact than regular Colocasia, making it an excellent choice for a large container.

To get the best and most dramatic results, it is important to provide plenty of moisture and high nutrition for this plant and ensure it is planted in a spot where it can receive full sun each day. With proper growing and plant care in pots, colder climates can enjoy the bold foliage of Black Colocasia all year round.

Colocasia 'White Lava' is similar to Colocasia 'Nancy's Revenge' but 'White Lava' produces glossy red petioles whereas 'Nancy's Revenge' has green petioles.