Colocasia ‘White Lava’ is a captivating addition to any garden or container, offering a tropical flair. Its striking foliage creates a dramatic focal point, transforming spaces with vibrant patterns and a unique presence.
Unique Characteristics of Colocasia ‘White Lava’
Colocasia ‘White Lava’ features large, glossy, fresh green, heart-shaped leaves. These leaves are uniquely adorned with a creamy-white band running down the center and radiating into the side veins, creating a distinctive ‘lava flow’ pattern. A notable purple spot often highlights where the leaf attaches to the stalk. The leaves typically droop downwards.
This tuberous perennial can reach a mature height of 3 to 4 feet with a spread of 2 to 3 feet. Reddish-purple stems enhance the plant’s colorful display, providing a striking contrast to the vibrant foliage.
Planting and Growing Colocasia ‘White Lava’
Establishing Colocasia ‘White Lava’ begins with selecting a site that offers full sun or partial shade. In hot climates, providing afternoon shade helps protect the leaves from scorching. The plant thrives in organically rich, moist, and well-draining soil, ideally with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
When planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter like compost to enhance drainage and moisture retention. Plant bulbs or corms 2 to 4 inches deep and 12 to 18 inches apart. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface for young plants.
Essential Care Requirements
Colocasia ‘White Lava’ flourishes with consistent moisture and warmth, showing robust growth in temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C). The soil should remain consistently moist but never waterlogged, as these plants have high water needs. Regular watering is necessary, especially for container-grown plants.
The plant benefits from high humidity levels. Fertilize every 2 to 4 weeks during the active growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. A fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content can support larger, more vibrant foliage. Regularly removing any dead or yellowing leaves helps maintain the plant’s appearance and prevents disease spread.
Winter Care and Dormancy
In climates where temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), Colocasia ‘White Lava’ is not frost-hardy and will typically enter dormancy. Before the first frost, lift the corms from the ground. Clean off excess soil, allow them to dry for a few days, and then store them in a cool, dry, and dark location, such as in wood shavings or peat moss, at temperatures ideally between 59°F and 77°F (15°C to 25°C).
For container-grown plants, bring them indoors to a frost-free area. Watering should be significantly reduced to allow the plant to go dormant. During dormancy, the foliage may die back, and new growth will emerge in the spring when warmer temperatures return.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves on Colocasia ‘White Lava’ often indicate either overwatering or underwatering. Insufficient light can also contribute to yellowing foliage, so ensure it receives adequate bright, indirect light or partial sun. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly a lack of nitrogen, may also cause leaves to yellow, highlighting the importance of regular fertilization during the growing season.
Pest infestations, such as spider mites and aphids, can occasionally affect Colocasia. Regularly inspecting the undersides of leaves can help detect these pests early. Addressing pest issues promptly with appropriate treatments, such as neem oil spray, can prevent further damage to the foliage. Stunted growth may result from inadequate light, insufficient water, or a lack of nutrients.