Identifying and Caring for Your Colocasia (Elephant Ear) Plant

Identifying and Caring for Your Colocasia (Elephant Ear) Plant

A reader recently purchased a plant labeled "Calocassia" but couldn't find any information under that name. The plant had large, ruffled leaves resembling a White Bird of Paradise, with water dripping from the leaf tips when watered. It was potted in a 15-inch container and placed in a bright corner with eastern and southern exposure. The soil remained wet for a week after the initial heavy watering, raising concerns about proper care.

Correct Identification

The plant is Colocasia esculenta, commonly known as Taro or Elephant's Ear. Native to swampy regions of Indonesia, this plant thrives in consistently moist soil during its active growing season (spring and summer).

Care Requirements

• Watering: Keep the soil constantly wet. It's best to let the pot sit in a saucer filled with water.
• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Warm temperatures are ideal.
• Dormancy (Optional): In fall, you can allow the soil to dry completely. The leaves will wither; cut them off and store the tuber in a cool (60–65°F) dark place until late February or early March, then repot and resume watering. However, this dormant period may not be strictly necessary—you can grow it year-round by maintaining moisture.

With the correct name, further research on winter care is recommended. The plant should recover well with consistent moisture and bright light.