Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic' – Deep Purple Elephant's Ear for Wet Sites

Elephant Ear 'Black Magic'

Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic' (kol-oh-KAY-shah ess-kew-LEN-tah) rises to about 36 inches with deep-purple stalks suspending luxurious leaves of the same color. When the leaves' undersides are dusted with a chalky-looking bloom, they take on an intriguing, almost gray look. This plant thrives in bogs, water garden margins, and average garden soil.

Noteworthy Characteristics

• Dark purple, almost black, heart-shaped leaves
• Loves wet conditions

Growing Conditions & Care

Elephant's ears are generally not hardy colder than Zone 9, so treat them like other summer-blooming bulbs. Let frost kill the top growth, then dig up the bulbs and dry them in open shade. Store in well-ventilated sacks in a dry, cool (about 50°F) place. In spring, plant bulbs in 1- or 2-gallon pots in a greenhouse for an early start. Position so remnants of last year's stem rise above soil level. Water once, then not again until leaves emerge. Grow in a warm greenhouse or outdoors at a pool margin, in a moist border, or in large aquatic containers.

Propagation

Divide in winter or early spring.

Potential Problems

Soft rot, bacterial blight, corm and root rot, and dasheen mosaic virus are common. Aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites occur.

Quick Reference

• Height: 3–6 ft.
• Light: Part shade only
• Moisture: Medium to wet
• Maintenance: Moderate
• Foliage Color: Black
• Uses: Beds, borders, containers, suitable as annual, water gardens
• Type: Perennial