Colocasia esculenta 'Illustris' – Classic Purple-and-Green Elephant's Ear for Shade

'Illustris' Elephant's Ear

Colocasia esculenta 'Illustris' has huge heart-shaped leaves with stunning dark highlights. This elephant ear loves moist shade but does best with a little dappled sunlight. It will tolerate boggy conditions.

—Julia Jones, Fine Gardening issue #120

Noteworthy Characteristics

Large purple-and-green leaves.

Growing Conditions & Care

Provide light shade to full shade and consistently moist or boggy soil.

Propagation

Divide in winter or early spring.

Potential Problems

Aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, soft rot, bacterial blight, corm and root rot, dasheen mosaic virus.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Light: Part shade to full shade
• Moisture: Medium to wet
• Maintenance: Low
• Foliage Color: Colorful/Burgundy
• Uses: Beds, borders, containers, waterside, woodland gardens
• Type: Bulb