Colocasia esculenta 'black magic' and other species

Plant Profile and Growing Hints

Given its dramatic near black foliage which also happens to be large and gives a tropical jungle feel to the garden it is a natural that Colocasia esculenta 'black magic' is perhaps the best known of these great foliage plants, however a little bit of extra information and a few different species and cultivars is always useful.

Tropical plants that are happy in a humus rich moist soil. Elephant Ear Plants or Colocasia are aroids that are grown mainly for their foliage. Species and cultivars include Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic' , Colocasia Gigantea or 'Elephant Ear Plant' and Colocasia Illustris or 'Paisley Elephant Ears'. All are fantastic foliage palnts.

Species and varieties

Growing Colocasia in the ground

Simple given a warm frost free position and a humus rich moist soil, try in a wtaer garden near the margins or in a boggy area. Colocasia may also be grown next to ponds or streams.