Mammoth Elephant Ears Colocasia Esculenta

FULL SUN Possibly originally native to Malaysia, the Mammoth Elephant Ear progressed rapidly to the tropical regions of South and Central America, Africa, Asia, Australia and Polynesia. They have been a part of American and European gardens since the mid-1800s when Victorians began to show them in their newly constructed conservatories. The largest of the Colocasias, the plants reach a height of 6-8 ft. The enormous leaves can grow to 2 ft. by 3 ft.

In Hardiness Zones 4-6, start roots indoors in April and transplant outside when the nighttime temperatures reach 55 degrees. In Hardiness Zones 7 and higher, roots can be started outside when the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Plant the roots in organically rich soil amended with bone meal. Keep the soil moist, but do not allow the roots to stand in water. Caladiums thrive in containers “ 1 root per 8 in. diameter pot.

In Zones 4-6, the roots need to be lifted when the nighttime temperatures fall below 55 degrees. Roots should be stored in a cool, dry, dark area. In Zones 7 and higher, roots can be left in the ground after the plant dies back, if heavily mulched.