The ‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ (Colocasia esculenta ‘Hawaiian Punch’) is a tropical plant known for its striking foliage. It features large, arrow-shaped green leaves with vibrant red stems, veins, and leaf margins. Growing 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, it adds an exotic touch to gardens and containers.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ thrives with balanced sun exposure. It performs well in full sun to partial shade, benefiting from afternoon shade in hot summer regions. Too much direct sunlight can scorch leaves, while insufficient light reduces stem and vein vibrancy.
Soil
This plant prefers rich, organically enhanced soil that retains moisture yet drains well. It adapts to various soil types, including amended clay, loam, or sandy soils. An ideal pH ranges from 5.5 to 7.5, indicating a preference for slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’, as it naturally grows in moist environments. Water thoroughly and frequently, especially during dry periods, to keep soil damp but not waterlogged. For container plants, monitor moisture closely, watering when the top inch or two of soil feels dry.
Temperature and Humidity
‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. It thrives between 68°F and 86°F. While brief dips are tolerated, temperatures consistently below 45°F cause stress. Maintain humidity, especially indoors, through misting or using a humidifier.
Fertilization
‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ is a vigorous grower, benefiting from regular feeding during its active growth (spring through early fall). Fertilize every two to four weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer, like a 20-20-20 NPK formula. Incorporating organic matter such as compost at planting provides sustained nutrients.
Planting and Placement
Plant ‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ tubers in mid-spring, after the last frost and when soil temperatures reach 60°F or warmer. For in-ground planting, space tubers 18 to 36 inches apart and plant them 2 to 4 inches deep. For containers, select pots with drainage holes, at least 10-12 inches in diameter to accommodate root growth.
Ensure the location provides adequate light and shelter from strong winds, which can damage the large leaves. This plant suits garden beds, containers, or as a marginal plant in water features. Its compact size also fits smaller garden spaces or patios.
Winter Care and Dormancy
In USDA Hardiness Zones 8-11, ‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ can remain in the ground year-round with mulching. In cooler climates (Zones 3-7), it is grown as an annual or requires overwintering indoors. Before the first frost, once foliage yellows and dies back, prepare tubers for storage.
Carefully dig up tubers, avoiding damage, and gently brush off excess soil. Air dry tubers for a few days at room temperature to prevent rot during storage. Store dried tubers in a cool, dark, dry location (e.g., basement or garage) where temperatures stay above 40°F, ideally 45-60°F. Placing them in dry peat moss or wood shavings helps maintain moisture and prevent rot.
Common Issues and Solutions
‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ plants are resilient, but can encounter problems. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or insufficient drainage, leading to root issues. Adjusting watering frequency and ensuring well-draining soil resolves this. Conversely, wilting or drooping leaves signal a lack of water, requiring more consistent irrigation.
Pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can affect foliage. Regularly inspecting leaves, especially undersides, helps detect infestations early. For minor issues, wipe leaves with a damp cloth; severe cases may require horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Fungal leaf blight, characterized by dark spots, occurs in overly wet or humid conditions; proper air circulation and copper-based fungicides manage this.
Propagation
The primary propagation method for ‘Hawaiian Punch Elephant Ear’ is division of its tubers or corms. This is best done in spring as new growth emerges. Carefully dig up the mature plant, avoiding damage to the underground corms.
Once corms are exposed, gently shake off loose soil. Identify natural divisions or “eyes” on the corm, where new growth will sprout. Using a clean, sharp knife, separate corms, ensuring each section has at least one healthy growth point and some roots. Replant these divisions directly into the garden or pots, following general planting guidelines.