About Elephant Ears
Elephant ears (Colocasia) produce enormous, heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves that can reach 2 to 3 feet long — creating an instant tropical, jungle-like atmosphere in any garden. Available in stunning foliage colors including deep purple, red, frost-patterned, white-and-pink, and speckled varieties, they're all about dramatic foliage rather than flowers. Growing 3 to 6 feet tall, they make bold statement plants in borders, containers, and poolside plantings.
Planting
Plant tubers outdoors in spring, after the last frost, when soil has warmed. Dig a hole 2 to 4 inches deep and place the tuber with any visible growing points facing up. Space 18 to 24 inches apart — these are big plants that need room. For containers, use pots at least 12 to 18 inches deep with quality potting mix.
Growing Conditions
Elephant ears thrive in full sun to partial shade with rich, moist soil. They're tropical plants that love warmth and humidity. Amend soil generously with compost to improve fertility and moisture retention. They perform best in consistently moist locations — near ponds, in rain gardens, or in low-lying areas of the yard.
Watering & Feeding
Elephant ears need consistent moisture throughout summer — do not let them dry out. Water deeply and regularly. Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to fuel their rapid, substantial growth. In containers, daily watering may be necessary during hot weather.
Overwintering
Elephant ears are tropical and cannot survive frost. In zones 8-11, they can overwinter in the ground with heavy mulch. In colder zones, dig up tubers after the first frost kills the foliage. Let them dry for a few days, then store in peat moss or newspaper in a cool (50-60°F), dry location until spring. They make dramatic companions for calla lilies, begonias, and other shade-tolerant plants in tropical-themed garden areas.