Colocasia ‘Bikini Tini’ offers a visually striking presence, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add a tropical flair to their landscapes. Its distinctive appearance and relatively straightforward care contribute to its growing appeal. This plant creates a dramatic focal point in garden beds or containers.
Distinctive Features of ‘Bikini Tini’
Colocasia ‘Bikini Tini’ is notable for its unique foliage and intriguing color. The large, cup-shaped leaves are deep green, often appearing almost black or with a bluish-gray hue. Dark purple, almost black, petioles support these leaves. A striking feature is the prominent dark purple or pink veining visible on the underside, contrasting with the darker leaf surface. The upward-facing leaves collect rainwater.
This colocasia can reach a substantial size, typically growing 5 to 7 feet tall and 2 to 5 feet wide, forming a sizable clump. Its thick, strong stems and leaves are attributed to its tetraploid nature, contributing to robust growth.
Planting and Cultivation
Planting Colocasia ‘Bikini Tini’ requires selecting an appropriate site and preparing the soil. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, though consistent soil moisture is important in sunnier exposures to prevent leaf burn. For optimal growth, choose a spot with wind protection.
Plant in late spring or early summer, after the last frost and when soil temperatures consistently reach above 70°F. ‘Bikini Tini’ prefers rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.6 and 7.0. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to enhance soil fertility and drainage. It can be planted directly in the ground or in containers.
Ongoing Care Requirements
Colocasia ‘Bikini Tini’ needs specific environmental conditions for vigorous growth. This plant flourishes in bright, indirect light, but it can adapt to limited direct sunlight once acclimated. Consistent moisture is paramount for ‘Bikini Tini’; the soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allowing the top two inches of soil to dry slightly between waterings is acceptable, but it should never fully dry out.
High humidity levels are beneficial for ‘Bikini Tini’. Misting the foliage or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water can help increase ambient humidity. This colocasia prefers temperatures above 60°F. During the active growing season (mid-May to late August), regular fertilization is important. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time, supplemented with a half-strength water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks.
Propagation Methods
Colocasia ‘Bikini Tini’ can be propagated through the division of its corms or tubers, as well as via runners. The plant naturally produces underground runners that develop into new baby plants. These offshoots often emerge far enough from the mother plant that they can be easily dug up without disturbing the parent.
When separating these young plants, ensure they have developed at least three or four leaves and a sufficient root system. Carefully cut the runner connecting the baby plant to the main corm and pot the new plant in a well-draining, organic-rich potting mix. For division of the main corm, the best time is in spring as new growth begins to emerge. Gently separate sections of the corm, ensuring each piece has an “eye” or growth point, and plant them in moist soil.
Winter Dormancy and Storage
For gardeners in colder climates (USDA Zones 6a-7b), Colocasia ‘Bikini Tini’ typically requires special winter care as it enters a dormant phase. Before the first hard frost, when temperatures consistently drop below 40-50°F and foliage begins to yellow and die back, the corms should be prepared for storage. Carefully dig up the corms, shaking off excess soil from the roots.
Allow the corms to dry for several days in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area, which helps prevent rot during storage. Once dry, trim off any remaining foliage and roots. Store the corms in a cool, dark, and dry location, such as a garage or basement, where temperatures remain consistently between 45-55°F. Placing them in a mesh bag, cardboard box, or layers of peat moss or wood shavings can provide adequate air circulation and prevent them from touching.
Addressing Common Issues
While Colocasia ‘Bikini Tini’ is generally robust, owners may encounter a few common problems. Yellowing leaves often indicate either overwatering or underwatering, as the plant prefers consistently moist but not saturated soil. Adjusting watering frequency to maintain even soil moisture can resolve this issue. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing; a regular fertilization regimen during the growing season can prevent this.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs, can sometimes affect ‘Bikini Tini’. Regularly inspecting the undersides of leaves helps in early detection. A strong spray of water can dislodge many pests, or insecticidal soap can be applied for more persistent infestations.
Fungal diseases, like crown or stem rot, are typically a result of overwatering or poorly draining soil. Ensuring the plant is in well-drained media and avoiding excessive moisture around the crown can prevent these issues.