Elephant ear plants (Colocasia or Alocasia) are prized for their oversized foliage, creating a lush, tropical aesthetic. Propagating them expands a collection or allows sharing their beauty.
When and Why to Propagate Elephant Ears
The optimal time for propagating elephant ear plants is late spring to early summer. During this period, temperatures are warm, and plants are actively growing. Attempting propagation outside this active growth phase reduces success.
Propagating elephant ears serves several purposes. It rejuvenates overgrown or root-bound plants. Division also helps manage the size of large clumps. Sharing newly propagated plants with others is straightforward.
Propagating Elephant Ears by Division
Propagating elephant ears by division involves separating a mature plant into smaller, independent sections. Begin by carefully removing the entire plant from its pot or the ground, shaking away excess soil to expose the root ball and rhizomes.
Identify natural divisions or offsets from the main plant. Each section chosen for division should have a portion of the rhizome, a few healthy roots, and at least one growth point or leaf. Using a sharp, sterilized knife or spade, carefully cut through the rhizome and root mass to separate these sections, minimizing damage.
Once separated, each new division can be immediately repotted into its own container or replanted directly into the garden. Choose a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter for container planting. Ensure newly divided plants are placed at the same depth they were previously growing, and water them thoroughly to settle the soil.
Propagating Elephant Ears from Tubers or Corms
Propagating elephant ears from tubers or corms offers another method, especially when starting with dormant material. Select healthy, firm tubers or corms that show no signs of rot or disease. If a corm is very large, cut it into smaller sections, ensuring each piece contains at least one “eye” or growth point.
After cutting, allow sections to air dry for 24 to 48 hours in a well-ventilated area. This step, known as callusing, forms a protective layer over cut surfaces, reducing the risk of fungal infections or rot once planted.
Plant the prepared corms or tuber sections in a rich, well-draining potting mix, burying them about 2 to 4 inches deep, with the growth point facing upwards if discernible. If there is no clear top or bottom, planting it horizontally is successful. After planting, water the soil lightly to initiate growth, maintaining consistent, but not overly saturated, moisture levels.
Caring for Your New Elephant Ear Plants
Newly propagated elephant ear plants require specific care. Immediately after planting, provide thorough watering to help the soil settle around the roots or corms. Maintaining consistent soil moisture is important, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to rot.
Place the newly planted divisions or corms in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch tender new foliage, especially on plants still establishing their root systems. High humidity also benefits young elephant ear plants, which can be achieved by misting the foliage or placing pots on pebble trays.
Monitor new plants for signs of growth, such as emerging shoots or unfurling leaves, which appear within a few weeks to a month. Maintain warm temperatures, between 65°F and 80°F (18°C-27°C), as elephant ears thrive in heat. Consistent care during this initial phase supports robust development and ensures long-term health.