Colocasia esculenta - video

This Black colocasia is a must for black plant fanatics. It has large matte black, heart shaped leaves on black/purple leaf stalks. As with most elephant ears, moist soil and high nutrition are the keys to great specimens. In shade leaves turn dark green. Once moved to bright sun, they turn back to black. In cooler subtropical climates leaves die back and the plant emerges from a rhizome in spring.

Diamond Head is a spectacular variety of Taro is named after the volcanic cone on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, which makes sense because both the cone and plant are black and lustrous! A stunning new addition to the world of elephant ears, Diamond Head's broad, lightly ruffled-edged, chocolate-black leaves have a shiny surface and a lustrous sheen that reflects the light. For best color, grow it in full sun. Mature plants form a well-behaved clump and reach 3 to 4 feet tall, with leaves up to 2 feet wide!

This astonishing elephant ear is well-named, it really does look like something that would grow for the giant! The foliage is absolutely massive, many feet long and wide, with a glossy texture, prominent ribbing, and a rich blue-green cast that lightens to chartreuse around the edges. Jack's Giant is a triploid, meaning it has three times the chromosomal power of most other elephant ears. And you will see the power in your garden!
Jack's Giant is native to East Asia and India, and certainly lends a big splash of tropical flair to any garden setting. Reaching at least 7 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide, it thrives in moist to boggy or even wet soils, preferring those that are well enriched with organic matter. In wintertime, however, it needs much drier conditions to keep from rotting. Good drainage and consistent moisture is the solution, with a siting in sun to light shade.
Find a position of prominence for this extraordinary plant. It could easily become the focal point of the patio or deck, or join taller shrubs and trees around the perimeter of the property. As a specimen it is unforgettable, yet it is quite easy to grow and needs no maintenance.