AI-generated image
Elephant Ear
IntermediateColocasia esculenta
Exotic tropical plant with giant heart-shaped leaves. Fast grower with striking presence as interior green. Thrives in warm, humid conditions.
About
Colocasia esculenta, known as taro or elephant ear, is a perennial in the family Araceae native to Southeast Asia and India. Long cultivated as an edible root crop, it is also a popular foliage plant grown for its huge, heart-shaped leaves. Though sometimes confused with Alocasia, it belongs to a separate genus. Fast-growing, it unfurls large leaves in quick succession for a bold tropical effect. As a warmth- and humidity-loving plant it is very thirsty in growth and can even be grown standing in shallow water. It likes bright conditions but midsummer direct sun can scorch the leaves. Cold-sensitive, it usually dies back and overwinters as a dormant corm. Its leaves and corms contain calcium oxalate and cannot be eaten raw.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Elephant Ear
The Elephant Ear lives 10+ years.
Size of the Elephant Ear
The Elephant Ear grows to 50cm-2m.
Temperature & humidity for the Elephant Ear
The ideal temperature for the Elephant Ear is 18〜35℃. Ideal humidity is 60〜80%.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeast Asia and India
Lifespan
10+ years
Size
50cm-2m
Temperature
18〜35℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer twice monthly spring-fall
Growing Tips
Placement
Bright partial shade. Direct sun causes leaf burn
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist. Wilts when dry
Humidity
Prefers high humidity. Use misting or humidifier
Temperature & Overwintering
It likes heat, with an ideal range of 18-35°C. Cold-sensitive; the top usually dies back in winter and the corm rests, so water little and keep it somewhere warm.
Soil & Repotting
Use a moisture-retentive mix; during growth the pot can even stand in a tray of water. Feed liquid fertilizer twice a month from spring to autumn for big leaves.
Notes
Contains calcium oxalate. Toxic to pets
Elephant Ear FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Elephant Ear?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Elephant Ear?
The ideal temperature for Elephant Ear is 18〜35℃. Recommended humidity is 60〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Elephant Ear?
The average lifespan of Elephant Ear is 10+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Elephant Ear get?
The mature size of Elephant Ear is 50cm-2m. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Elephant Ear?
Elephant Ear: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer twice monthly spring-fall. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Elephant Ear?
The price of Elephant Ear varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 25, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 8–10
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Colocasia esculenta
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Why New Leaves on Foliage Plants Are Smaller — Practical Solutions for Light, Humidity, and Nutrition
We analyze the causes behind stunted growth and smaller new leaves on foliage plants. From light environment and humidity management to fertilization strategy and root health, we explain each factor based on empirical data and introduce methods to restore new leaf size.
Spider Mite and Scale Insect Control: Practical Pest Prevention
Learn to identify spider mites and scale insects on houseplants and recognize damage signs, master practical spider mite control methods, discover effective scale insect elimination techniques, create pest-resistant environments with seasonal management, understand pesticide safety precautions, and discover early detection and prevention strategies.
Root Rot Prevention and Root Zone Regeneration Management in Foliage Plants | Soil Selection, Watering, and Early Diagnosis & Recovery Techniques
Root rot is the greatest threat to foliage plants. This article covers practical knowledge from the mechanisms of root rot development to prevention, early-stage diagnosis and treatment methods, and ensuring long-term plant health through soil and watering management.
Aerial Root Management and Utilization in Houseplants | Cultivation Techniques for Aerial Root-Bearing Plants like Philodendron and Monstera
This guide explains how to understand and manage the characteristics of aerial roots in houseplants. We introduce cultivation techniques that leverage aerial roots, from growth promotion to aesthetic expression.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.