Elephant Ear

Elephant Ear

Botanical name: Colocasia esculenta

Bloom type: Herbaceous Perennial

Taro, or elephant ear, is a tender herbaceous perennial in the Araceae (arum) family with a clumping growth habit. Native to eastern Asia, it grows from a corm. This corm provides a staple food worldwide, sometimes known as the “potato” of the tropical world. The species name esculenta derives from the Latin for edible, or good to eat. 

The plant grows best in part shade or filtered sun and moist, rich soil. It should not be allowed to dry out and should be protected from strong winds. The plant may spread and be divided much like other perennials with storage organs. 

Taro is not known for its flowers. It is more widely known for its very large and sometimes ornately colored foliage, which adds a smooth texture to the landscape. 

This plant gives a tropical look in warm planting zones at the edge of the understory of a tree or in a border. It may also be grown as a specimen plant. It can also be grown as a houseplant. Alternatively, it could be used as a potted plant outside during warmer months and brought indoors for cooler months. 

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems.