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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)
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
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 ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: July 19, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 8–10
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Colocasia esculenta
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BoTachoku 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
観葉植物。CITES附属書(植物)・特定外来生物・特定動物いずれも非該当を有限文書照合で確認(CITES flora section に当該属の掲載なし。Dracaena spp.掲載は同名のトカゲ属でありシダ植物Dracaenaは非該当)。
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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