Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’ is a striking tropical plant known for its vibrant foliage. Its large, heart-shaped leaves display a unique pattern of chartreuse to lime green with darker green mottling, often resembling a gecko’s skin. Dark, sometimes almost black, stems provide a strong contrast to the bright leaves. This cultivar offers an exotic touch, making it a popular choice for adding visual appeal to both indoor spaces and outdoor garden settings.
Caring for Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’
Light
Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’ thrives in bright, indirect light. While it tolerates partial shade outdoors, its colors are most vibrant with moderate, indirect light. Direct, intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves and diminish their coloration. Indoors, place it near a bright window with filtered light, avoiding direct sun.
Water
This plant requires consistently moist soil. It has a high water demand and can tolerate wet conditions, making it suitable for bog gardens or areas near ponds. Allowing the soil to dry out completely leads to wilting and browning leaves. Maintain consistent moisture without allowing the plant to sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
Soil
Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’ grows best in rich, well-draining soil that retains moisture. A potting mix enhanced with compost or organic matter provides necessary nutrients and structure. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Temperature and Humidity
Optimal growth occurs in warm, humid environments, with temperatures between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20-30 degrees Celsius). The plant is resilient in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius). High humidity (60-80%) benefits its foliage; indoor plants benefit from regular misting or a humidifier.
Fertilizer
Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’ is a heavy feeder, especially during its active growing season from spring through early fall. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to four weeks to support vigorous growth. Fertilizers with higher nitrogen encourage lush foliage. During late fall and winter, when growth slows, reduce or discontinue fertilization.
Planting and Placement Tips
Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’ adapts well to indoor containers and outdoor garden beds. It is perennial in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11, where tubers overwinter in the ground. In colder regions, the plant is grown as an annual or its tubers are dug up and stored indoors until spring.
When planting in containers, select a pot at least 12 to 18 inches wide and deep for root growth. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging. The ideal time for outdoor planting is after the last frost, once soil temperatures warm to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 degrees Celsius).
Common Problems and Solutions
Yellowing leaves indicate a watering imbalance, such as overwatering or poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust the watering schedule to keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Drooping leaves signal underwatering, heat stress, or insufficient humidity. Check soil moisture and increase ambient humidity to revive the plant.
Pests like spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, thrips, armyworms, and whiteflies can affect Colocasia. Regularly inspect the plant and wipe leaves with a damp cloth to deter pests; use insecticidal soap for infestations. Browning or curling leaf edges suggest low humidity or fertilizer burn. Address humidity levels and properly dilute fertilizers to prevent these symptoms.
Propagating Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’
Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’ is propagated by dividing its corms or separating offsets (suckers) that develop around the main plant. Winter is a good time for this, particularly when tubers are lifted for storage. To propagate using offsets, lift the mature plant and separate the smaller suckers from the main tuber.
For corm division, cut the main corm into several pieces, ensuring each section contains at least one “eye” or node. Plant these divisions in a suitable growing medium. After planting, consistent watering and, sometimes, a root-stimulating powder encourage successful establishment.
Toxicity Information
Colocasia ‘Lemon Lime Gecko’ contains calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals cause irritation if ingested. Symptoms include oral irritation, pain, swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical or veterinary attention.