elephant ear rudbeckia plant Colocasia 'Fontanesii' Black Stem Elephant Ear Bulb

elephant ear rudbeckia plant Colocasia 'Fontanesii' Black Stem Elephant Ear BulbColocasia 'Fontanesii' Black Stem Elephant Ear is a dazzling tropical beauty that grows to an impressive size of 3 to 6 feet tall. Aptly named, its huge, heart shaped, glossy leaves are held on elegant purple black stems that give this elephant ear a rich, and somewhat mysterious, distinctive look. The plant rarely flowers, but may produce cream to tan spathes, which are usually hidden by the foliage and not considered particularly ornamental. Black

Colocasia 'Fontanesii' Black Stem Elephant Ear is a dazzling tropical beauty that grows to an impressive size of 3 to 6 feet tall. Aptly named, its huge, heart-shaped, glossy leaves are held on elegant purple-black stems that give this elephant ear a rich, and somewhat mysterious, distinctive look. The plant rarely flowers, but may produce cream to tan spathes, which are usually hidden by the foliage and not considered particularly ornamental.

Black Stem, or Colocasia esculenta 'Fontanesii', also known as elephant ear or taro, is a tuberous, frost-tender perennial (Zones 8-11). With its upright growth habit, it is adaptable to a large container. This striking plant is also well-suited to pond margins and rain gardens. Whether used as a solitary specimen or in mass plantings with flowering companions, its bold foliage adds a tropical touch to any landscape.

Black Stem elephant ear is low maintenance and hassle-free once established but should always remain moist. It thrives in sunny to partially shady spots with fertile, rich, and consistently moist soil. Afternoon shade can be beneficial in hot summer climates. Its resistance to deer adds to its versatility and appeal.

For optimal growth, plant Black Stem elephant ear's 7- to 9-inch bulb (rhizome) in mid-spring, spacing them 2½ feet apart and 2 to 3 inches deep, ensuring the soil and air temperatures are consistently 60°F or warmer. In cooler regions, dig up the bulbs in fall and store them in a cool, dry place with temperatures about 45° to 50°F.