When they first emerge in late spring, the large, heart-shaped leaves of this tender perennial are green, however as they mature they take on a bronze-purple flush, which intensifies as the summer progresses to a rich purple-black. It makes a dramatic and showy addition to the bog garden or pond edge.
How to care for Colocasia esculenta Black Magic:
Elephant's ears can be planted outside after frost, or started off in pots under glass in late winter to early spring. Plant the bulbs so that their growing tip is just above the soil surface (if there are no noticeable shoots or roots, the end with the concentric rings goes uppermost, while the end with the holes will produce the roots). Water sparingly initially and keep the compost warm. Provide adequate moisture during the growing season and lift the bulbs in autumn before the frosts (or if grown in pots, move them under warm glass) and keep the tubers dry and frost free throughout winter.
Eventual height:
1.5m
Eventual spread:
1.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
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This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
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Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten; skin/eye irritant