Colocasia gigantea Thailand Giant (Giant Elephant Ear)
A big, bold, textural, and architectural foliage plant, Colocasia gigantea 'Thailand Giant' (Giant Elephant Ear) is a tuberous, frost-tender perennial boasting huge, heart-shaped, blue-green leaves, up to 4-6 ft. long (120-180 cm) and 3-5 ft. wide (90-150 cm). They are borne atop sturdy, succulent leaf stalks. Unlike the leaves of Alocasia which point skyward, the leaves of Colocasia droop and point toward the ground. Reminiscent of calla lily flowers, pale yellow, pleasantly perfumed flowers are infrequently produced in summer. Strong, fast-growing, Giant Elephant Ear is a hassle-free tropical plant that makes an unforgettable focal point and brings a distinctly tropical look to the landscape, water gardens, or large containers. Evergreen in frost-free climates.
- Grows up to 6-10 ft. tall and wide (180-300 cm).
- Performs best in sun or part shade in organically rich, moist to wet soils. Provide a sheltered location to protect the decorative leaves from strong winds. This plant grow best in areas with high summer heat and high humidity.
- Elephant Ears love water and nutrients. They require regular watering, particularly during dry summer periods. Provide regular fertilization during the growing season. The more you feed them, the larger they will grow. They can be planted in up to 6 in. (15 cm) of standing water.
- Perfect as a specimen or in groups for beds and borders, near streams and ponds, or in large containers.
- Generally disease free. Watch for spider mites.
- All parts may cause mild stomach upset if ingested without cooking.
- Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
Requirements
Hardiness | 8 – 10 |
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Climate Zones | 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Aquatic Plants, Bulbs, Perennials |
Plant Family | Colocasia – Taro |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter |
Height | 6' – 10' (180cm – 3m) |
Spread | 6' – 10' (180cm – 3m) |
Water Needs | Average, High |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Poorly Drained |
Characteristics | Showy |
Tolerance | Wet Soil |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Bog Gardens, Patio and Containers, Ponds and Streams, Rain Gardens, Water Gardens |
Garden Styles | Mediterranean Garden |