california elephant ears plant Colocasia 'Mojito' Elephant Ear Bulb – Wayside Gardens

california elephant ears plant Colocasia 'Mojito' Elephant Ear Bulb – Wayside GardensA newer variety, Colocasia 'Mojito' Elephant Ear is an exotic tropical foliage plant that grows to a mature size of about 36 inches tall and wide and graces the summer garden with its impressive 8 to 14 inch leaves borne on purple stems. Adding surprise and interest, each showy leaf is unique, sporting its own painterly pattern of dark speckles and splotches. Infrequently, yellowish white spathes may be produced but are not considered part of the

A newer variety, Colocasia 'Mojito' Elephant Ear is an exotic tropical foliage plant that grows to a mature size of about 36 inches tall and wide and graces the summer garden with its impressive 8- to 14-inch leaves borne on purple stems. Adding surprise and interest, each showy leaf is unique, sporting its own painterly pattern of dark speckles and splotches. Infrequently, yellowish white spathes may be produced but are not considered part of the plant's ornamental value.

A Colocasia esculenta variety, or elephant ear, 'Mojito' is a stunning frost-tender perennial (Zones 10-11) with a multi-stemmed, upright habit and fast growth rate, reaching its mature size in one growing season. Perfect for container gardens, this tropical plant is also an excellent addition to pond margins or rain gardens. Its bold foliage makes a dramatic statement when planted individually and serves as a lush backdrop when used in group plantings alongside colorful flowers.

Once established, 'Mojito' elephant ear requires minimal care as long as it stays consistently moist. It thrives in sunny to partially shaded locations with organically rich, fertile, loamy soils that remain medium to wet. In areas with scorching summers, some afternoon shade will help maintain its vigor. As a deer-resistant plant, it's ideal for gardens prone to wildlife disturbances.

Plant 'Mojito' elephant ear's 7- to 9-inch bulb (rhizome) in mid-spring, spacing them 3 to 4 feet apart and 1 inch deep once soil and air temperatures reach a consistent 60°F or above. In colder zones, lift the bulbs in fall and store them in a dry, cool area where temperatures don't drop below 45°F.