Elephant Ears (Colocasia and Alocasia genera) are show-stopping tropical plants prized for their enormous, heart-shaped or shield-shaped leaves. While they can grow impressively in the ground, Elephant Ears are also excellent container plants, bringing a dramatic, exotic touch to patios, decks, and balconies. Container gardening allows you to easily move these tender plants indoors for winter protection in colder climates and control their growing environment.

Elephant Ears (Colocasia)

Key Features of Elephant Ears:

• Foliage: The defining feature of Elephant Ears is their massive, dramatic foliage. Leaves can range from 1 to 3 feet wide and several feet long, depending on the variety. Leaf shapes vary from heart-shaped (Colocasia) to more upright, shield-shaped or arrowhead-shaped (Alocasia). Leaf colors range from various shades of green to black, burgundy, chartreuse, and variegated patterns.
• Flowers: Elephant Ears do produce flowers, but they are relatively inconspicuous compared to the foliage. Flowers are typically hooded spathes, similar to calla lilies, and are often hidden beneath the large leaves. They are not the primary ornamental feature.
• Types: “Elephant Ears” encompasses plants from two main genera, Colocasia and Alocasia, and their hybrids. Key differences and popular container types include:
  • Colocasia (Taro): Leaves are typically heart-shaped and often droop or point downwards. Generally more tolerant of wet conditions and can even be grown in water gardens. Popular Colocasia varieties for containers include ‘Black Magic’, ‘Mojito’, ‘Illustris’, and ‘Esculenta’ (Green Taro).
  • Alocasia (Upright Elephant Ear): Leaves are often more upright, shield-shaped, or arrowhead-shaped and tend to point upwards or outwards. Generally prefer drier soil than Colocasia. Popular Alocasia varieties for containers include Alocasia amazonica (Amazon Elephant Ear), Alocasia macrorrhizos (Upright Elephant Ear), and Alocasia ‘Polly’.
  • Hybrids: Many hybrids exist between and within these genera, offering a wide range of leaf colors, shapes, and sizes.
• Size: Elephant Ear size varies tremendously by species and cultivar, from dwarf varieties reaching 2-3 feet tall to giants that can exceed 9-10 feet in height. Container size will restrict ultimate size, but even in pots, they can become substantial plants. Choose dwarf or medium-sized varieties for most container gardens.
• Hardiness: Elephant Ears are tropical to subtropical plants, and most are tender perennials, hardy only in USDA zones 8-11. In colder zones, they are grown as annuals or their tubers/rhizomes are dug up and stored indoors over winter. Some Alocasia species are slightly less cold-hardy than Colocasia.
• Maintenance: Elephant Ears are considered moderately easy to grow, thriving in warm conditions with ample water, sunlight (depending on type), and fertilizer. They are vigorous growers and can be quite rewarding in containers.

Growing Elephant Ear Plants in Pots at Home:

1. Choosing the Right Pot:

• Material:
  • Plastic Pots: Lightweight, affordable, retain moisture well, and come in various sizes. Darker colors can help warm the soil. Ensure good drainage. Sturdy plastic is recommended as Elephant Ears can become heavy.
  • Resin or Composite Pots: Durable, lighter than terracotta, good insulation, and moisture retention. Offer a more decorative look than basic plastic. Ensure drainage holes.
  • Terracotta or Clay Pots: Provide good drainage and aeration, and are aesthetically pleasing. However, they dry out faster, are heavier, and can crack in freezing temperatures. May require more frequent watering.
• Size: Select a pot that is generously sized to accommodate the large root system and foliage of Elephant Ears.
  • Dwarf Varieties (under 3 feet): Start with a pot that is at least 14-16 inches in diameter and depth.
  • Medium Varieties (3-5 feet): Use pots that are 18-24 inches or larger in diameter and depth.
  • Larger Varieties (over 5 feet): Use very large containers, 24 inches or more in diameter and depth. Half whiskey barrels or large tubs can work well.
  • General Rule: Choose the largest pot you can reasonably manage and that suits the mature size of your chosen variety. Larger pots retain moisture better and provide more room for root growth, resulting in healthier, more impressive plants.
• Drainage: Excellent drainage is important, though Colocasia are more tolerant of wet feet than Alocasia. Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes. You can add a layer of gravel or pot shards at the bottom for extra drainage, particularly for Alocasia.

Elephant Ears (Colocasia)

2. Planting:

• When to Plant: Plant Elephant Ear tubers or rhizomes in containers in late spring or early summer, after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15°C). Warm soil is crucial for germination and growth. You can start tubers indoors in pots 4-8 weeks before the last frost to get a head start.
• Starting Tubers Indoors (Optional): Plant tubers/rhizomes in pots filled with potting mix, barely covering the top of the tuber. Keep soil consistently moist and warm (use a heat mat if possible) in a bright location. Transplant outdoors once sprouts emerge and weather is warm.
• Potting Mix: Use a rich, well-draining potting mix that is high in organic matter. Amend a standard potting mix with compost, well-rotted manure, or peat moss to improve fertility, moisture retention, and drainage.
• Planting Process:
  1. Fill the pot partially with potting mix.
  2. Place the Elephant Ear tuber or rhizome upright or horizontally (depending on type – check variety-specific instructions, but generally eyes/sprouts should point upwards) on the soil surface. Plant tubers of Colocasia slightly deeper than Alocasia.
  3. Cover the tuber/rhizome with 2-4 inches of potting mix, depending on size. Larger tubers can be planted deeper.
  4. Water gently to settle the soil.
  5. Place the pot in a warm, bright location (indoors if starting early, or outdoors in a sheltered spot initially).

3. Care:

• Sunlight:
  • Colocasia (Taro): Tolerate full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, they benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. More sun generally results in richer foliage color in dark-leaved varieties.
  • Alocasia (Upright Elephant Ear): Prefer bright, indirect light or morning sun and afternoon shade. Direct afternoon sun can scorch their leaves.
  • General Recommendation: Bright, indirect light or morning sun is ideal for most container Elephant Ears. Observe your plants and adjust location if leaves appear scorched or growth is weak.
• Watering: Elephant Ears are thirsty plants and need consistent moisture, especially during the growing season.
  • Water deeply and frequently to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Container-grown plants may need daily watering or even twice daily in hot, sunny weather.
  • Check soil moisture regularly by feeling the top inch of soil. Water when it feels slightly dry. Leaves may droop in intense heat, but severe wilting indicates underwatering.
  • Colocasia are more water-tolerant and can even be grown in boggy conditions or shallow water. Alocasia prefer slightly better drainage and should not be kept constantly waterlogged.
  • Reduce watering in fall as temperatures cool and growth slows down.
• Fertilizing: Elephant Ears are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization to support their rapid growth and large foliage.
  • At Planting: Mix slow-release fertilizer into the potting mix at planting.
  • During Growing Season: Feed regularly with a balanced liquid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) every 2-3 weeks or a diluted fertilizer solution with each watering during the active growing season (spring to late summer). Alternatively, use a granular fertilizer monthly.
  • Fertilize more frequently for plants in full sun and fast growth.
• Humidity: Elephant Ears thrive in high humidity, mimicking their tropical origins. Increase humidity, especially indoors in winter, by:
  • Grouping plants together.
  • Using a humidifier.
  • Placing pots on pebble trays filled with water (water level below pot base).
  • Misting foliage regularly (especially Alocasia).
• Pest and Diseases: Generally relatively pest and disease-resistant. Potential issues can include spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and fungal leaf spots. Monitor for pests and treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding to prevent fungal diseases.
• Overwintering: In zones colder than 8, Elephant Ear tubers/rhizomes need to be overwintered indoors.
  1. Before First Frost: Before the first frost, or when temperatures consistently drop below 50°F (10°C), prepare to overwinter.
  2. Cut Back Foliage: Cut back foliage to a few inches above the soil line after the first frost has blackened the leaves.
  3. Dig Up Tubers/Rhizomes (or bring in pots):
     • Option 1 (Digging): Carefully dig up tubers/rhizomes from containers. Gently remove excess soil.
     • Option 2 (Whole Pot): If pots are manageable, you can bring the entire pot indoors for overwintering.
  4. Dry and Store Tubers: Allow dug rhizomes to air dry for a few days in a frost-free location. Store tubers/rhizomes in boxes or paper bags filled with peat moss, vermiculite, or dry sawdust in a cool, dark, dry place (e.g., basement, garage). Optimal storage temperature is around 45-55°F (7-13°C). If overwintering in pots, move pots to a cool, dark location and allow soil to dry out somewhat.
  5. Replant in Spring: In spring, after the last frost, replant tubers/rhizomes in fresh potting mix.

4. Benefits of Growing Elephant Ears in Pots:

• Tropical Drama: Instantly creates a lush, tropical ambiance in any space with their dramatic foliage.
• Moveable Décor: Containers allow you to easily reposition plants to enhance patios, decks, balconies, pool areas, or bring indoors as houseplants.
• Control Growing Conditions: Ideal for areas with unsuitable garden soil. You can tailor the potting mix, watering, and light exposure precisely.
• Overwintering Ease: Container growing simplifies overwintering in colder climates – just move the pots indoors.
• Focal Points: Large potted Elephant Ears make striking focal points in gardens and landscapes.
• Versatility: Can be used as standalone specimens or combined with other container plants for mixed arrangements.

5. Potential Problems with Container Elephant Ears:

• Water Requirements: Consistent and frequent watering is crucial, especially in containers, and can be demanding in hot weather.
• Fertilizing Needs: Regular feeding is necessary for their vigorous growth.
• Size and Weight: Large, mature Elephant Ears in pots can become very heavy and difficult to move. Choose pot size carefully and consider using pots with casters for mobility.
• Overwintering Effort (in cold climates): While container growing simplifies it, overwintering still requires digging and storing tubers or finding indoor space for large pots in colder zones.
• Pest Susceptibility (indoors): When brought indoors for winter, they may become more susceptible to indoor pests like spider mites if humidity is too low.

Authoritative Sources:

• Wikipedia – Colocasia esculenta: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colocasia_esculenta (Information on Colocasia genus/Taro/Elephant Ears)

In Summary:

Growing Elephant Ear plants in pots is a rewarding way to enjoy these tropical giants, even in smaller gardens or colder climates. By choosing a large pot, providing rich soil, consistent moisture, warmth, and regular feeding, you can cultivate impressive container Elephant Ears and create a dramatic, tropical oasis at home.