Colocasia esculenta
AVAILABLE JHB, PTA ONLY
Also known as the Elephant's Ear, Colocasias have beautifully soft, scalloped leaves that are held atop tall wistful stems. They grow naturally in southeast Asia and are great for adding a touch of the tropics to your house or garden.
Comes in a 23cm grow pot. Decorative planters sold separately.
Available JHB, PTA only.
Flat shipping rates apply per order (add more plants & pay the same on shipping). Gauteng R79. Rest of South Africa R119 (Except Limpopo, Mpumalanga & Northern Cape R149).
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Colocasias need bright light and prefer being near a north/east facing window. If grown outdoors, morning sun and afternoon shade is best, or a light semi-shade. Also place them in a spot that gets good ventilation, which will help deter pests like spider mites.
Elephant's Ears prefer moist soil, but don't let it become soggy as this can lead to fungal infections. Water when just the top layer is dry. Also bear in mind a bigger pot retains more water. Water less in winter. Elephant's Ears enjoy high temperatures & humidity levels. If temps drop below 15°C, the plants can go into dormancy, but they will come back in spring.
Colocasias are used to growing in forests with soil rich in nutrients from decaying leaf matter. Therefore they like regular feeding with organic fertiliser rich in Nitrogen. They will also benefit from added Kraal Manure to the soil.
As heavy feeders Colocasias quickly deplete the nutrients in their soil, and like to be re-potted annually with fresh potting mix. Add peat poss and perlite to the mix, this ensures the soil stays evenly moist without becoming dense.
Colocasias can be susceptible to spider mites, especially when the air is too dry. Spider mites are tiny black specks usually found on the underside of the leaves. Look out for stippling (faded yellow spots on the leaves), and white webbing. If you suspect mites, regularly spray your plant with an organic insecticide like Ludwig's Rose Spider Mite, a neem oil based insecticide or a soapy mixture of dish-washing liquid & water (use a mild dish soap that does not contain a degreaser & mix 1-2 teaspoons with 1L water). Don't spray new leaves and only spray a non-stressed plant. Good air circulation & moisture helps control breakouts.
Colocasias not only make a dramatic display in the garden, but are making waves in kitchens too. Their tubers are also known as Kolokasi, and have been used in Cypriot cooking since Roman Times. However, Kolokasi is toxic in its raw form, and is only edible when it is cooked.
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