Maui Gold Elephant Ear is a tropical foliage plant known for its golden-chartreuse leaves. This plant adds an exotic appeal to any garden or indoor space. Its bright coloration makes it a popular choice for gardeners.
Understanding Maui Gold Elephant Ear
The Maui Gold Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta ‘Maui Gold’) is a cultivar from the Royal Hawaiian series, bred by Dr. John Cho. It is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves, which can reach up to 18 inches wide and display a golden-lime green hue. The foliage can have a small purple dot where the stem joins the leaf.
This plant typically forms an upright, clump-forming habit, making it less invasive than some other Colocasia varieties. It grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet, with a spread of 1 to 4 feet. Strong stems, sometimes tinged with purple, hold the large leaves aloft, creating a tropical aesthetic.
Cultivation and Care
Light Requirements
Maui Gold Elephant Ear grows well in various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, afternoon shade can prevent scorching and maintain the golden-chartreuse foliage color. While it tolerates full shade, leaf color may be less intense than in sunnier locations.
Watering Needs
Consistent moisture is important for Maui Gold Elephant Ear, as it prefers moist to wet soil. The plant tolerates some standing water and grows well in boggy areas or near water features. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Regular watering is necessary during dry or hot periods.
Soil Preferences
This plant grows best in rich, well-draining soil high in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, between 5.5 and 7.5, is suitable. Amending the soil with compost enhances fertility and moisture retention, contributing to healthier growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Maui Gold Elephant Ear prefers warm temperatures, between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C), and high humidity. It is a popular choice for tropical and subtropical regions. In USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 11, it grows as a perennial. In colder zones (3-7), it is often treated as an annual or overwintered indoors by digging up the corms. The plant tolerates winter low temperatures of 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit when grown in the ground.
Fertilizing
To support growth, fertilize Maui Gold Elephant Ear monthly with a balanced fertilizer during its active growing season, from spring through mid-summer. A slow-release granular or liquid fertilizer can be applied. Consistent feeding promotes the development of its large leaves.
Pest and Disease Management
Maui Gold Elephant Ear is low-maintenance and resistant to many common pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids, especially in dry conditions. Root rot can occur if soil remains waterlogged, so proper drainage is important. Good air circulation and appropriate watering practices help prevent most issues.
Landscape Use and Placement
Maui Gold Elephant Ear adds a tropical flair to various settings. Its upright, clumping habit makes it suitable as a focal point in garden beds or an accent plant in smaller spaces. The plant’s tolerance for moist to wet conditions makes it a choice for water gardens, pond edges, or boggy areas.
It grows well in containers, where its foliage creates a “thriller” element in mixed arrangements. The golden-chartreuse leaves contrast with darker-foliaged plants, such as black mondo grass or darker Colocasia varieties like ‘Black Coral’. Companion plants thriving in moist conditions, such as cannas, hibiscus, or ferns, complement its appearance.
Propagation
Maui Gold Elephant Ear is propagated through the division of its corms or rhizomes. The best time for propagation is in spring, once the danger of frost has passed and the soil warms. To divide, carefully dig up the plant and separate smaller corms or offsets from the main plant. Each division should have at least one “eye” or growth point. These corms can then be replanted directly into prepared soil or potted for future transplanting.