Colocasia is a true giant that can add a striking tropical appeal to gardens in full sun or shade. The huge, dark glossy mahogany leaves keep a shorter habit than many other elephant ears making it usable in a wide variety of gardening applications. We like it for providing a dark backdrop for reds, oranges, yellows or whites. When planted in the back of a garden bed, especially in shade it has a tendency to make these colors pop. This particular cultivar is named Distant Memory in honor of Harriet Walters of Walters Gardens. A portion of the sales of this plant support Alzheimers research. 

Photos courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Colocasia Distant Memory - Elephant Ear

Colocasia is an outstanding tropical plant that is often grown as an annual in colder zones. It is a moisture loving plant that needs consistently moist to wet soil to perform best and achieve its maximum size. Colocasia will also grow in shallow water near the edges of ponds or bogs. This plant prefers full sun as long as sufficient moisture and humidity are provided. In dry climates, it is better sited in partial shade. Colocasias are heavy feeders, so the soil should be enriched with humus and other organic nutrients should be provided on a regular basis. Where Colocasia is hardy, it should be mulched well in winter to protect the central tuber.