Arrowleaf Elephant Ear, especially varieties like Colocasia esculenta ‘Illustris’, adds a striking, tropical presence to any garden. These plants are favored for their large, distinctive foliage, creating a dramatic visual impact.
Understanding Arrowleaf Elephant Ear
Arrowleaf Elephant Ear plants are tuberous perennials known for their arrow-shaped leaves. These leaves can reach up to 3 feet long, with petioles extending to 6 feet, resulting in a total plant height of 6.5 to 9 feet. Foliage often displays vibrant green hues, sometimes with blackish-purple overlays and bright green veins, as seen in ‘Illustris’. Their leaves typically droop downwards.
Planting Arrowleaf Elephant Ear
Selecting an appropriate site ensures successful establishment. These plants prefer partial shade or dappled sun, though darker-leaved varieties tolerate more direct sunlight. Protect them from strong winds to prevent damage to their large leaves.
Ideal soil is rich, humusy, consistently moist, and well-draining, often slightly acidic (pH 5.5-7.0). Incorporating organic matter like compost or manure promotes growth. Plant tubers 4 inches deep, root end down, spaced 2 to 4 feet apart depending on variety. Place started plants at their previous container level.
Ongoing Care for Arrowleaf Elephant Ear
Consistent moisture is essential for Arrowleaf Elephant Ear, as they thrive in wet conditions. Regular watering, daily in warm weather or for container plants, ensures evenly moist but not waterlogged soil. Yellowing or wilting leaves indicate insufficient water.
Arrowleaf Elephant Ears are heavy feeders, benefiting from regular fertilization throughout their growing season. Apply a water-soluble, high-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 20-10-20 or 20-20-20 NPK) every two to four weeks from spring through summer to promote lush foliage. Dilute fertilizer to 50% strength and water the plant before and during application to prevent root burn.
Pruning involves removing yellowed, damaged, or unsightly leaves to maintain plant health and appearance. This encourages bushier growth and improves air circulation, deterring disease. In colder climates, overwintering tubers is important as plants are sensitive to temperatures below 40-50°F. After the first frost, cut stems back, dig up tubers, and allow them to dry. Store them in a cool, dark, dry place (40-60°F), packed in peat moss or newspaper, checking occasionally for rot.
Common Problems and Solutions
Arrowleaf Elephant Ears can face common issues, with overwatering often causing root rot. If leaves yellow or wilt, check soil moisture; brown, mushy roots indicate too much water. Ensure good drainage and allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent this.
Leaf scorch, appearing as brown edges or pale, patchy leaves, often results from excessive direct sunlight. Relocate the plant to a spot with more indirect light or provide afternoon shade. Stunted or pale leaves suggest nutrient deficiencies, addressed by consistent fertilization.
Pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can affect Arrowleaf Elephant Ears. Regularly inspect plants and promptly address infestations with appropriate treatments. Fungal leaf blight, characterized by oozing, discolored lesions and fuzzy growth, is also common. Remove infected leaves quickly to prevent its spread.
Landscape Applications and Safety
Arrowleaf Elephant Ear plants are valued in landscapes for creating a lush, tropical atmosphere. They serve as striking focal points in garden beds or large containers, especially near water features like ponds. Their large leaves effectively fill garden spaces or provide a dramatic backdrop.
All parts of the Arrowleaf Elephant Ear plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic if ingested. This can cause severe irritation to the mouth, lips, and digestive tract, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in humans and pets. Exercise caution when handling the plant, and keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.