Speaking of Elephant Ears

Date: Wed, 30 Oct 2013 16:37:32 +0000
From: Al Cooke
Subject: Speaking of Elephant Ears

And what are the variables related to leaf size?  An initial consideration, of course, is that the term “elephant ears” generally refers to many cultivated varieties of several species of plants in the genus Colocasia.    We tend to think of them as being similar in appearance.  But from a plant’s perspective humans may look similar to gibbons and gorillas – all primates but different species with different cultural requirements.

Never having grown any Colocasia spp., I have to rely on my ability to distinguish solid info from hype.  It appears that most of the cultivated varieties will produce pretty large leaves.  But if you want “mastodon ears,” looking a little more carefully into the varieties available may be a good idea.

Beyond that good cultural practices should be helpful.  A key component is moisture.  The plants thrive on high moisture levels.  They even tolerate standing water up to about 6 inches deep.  So don’t let them dry out.   Push them with water.  Abundant soil organic matter and frequent fertilizer applications are typically recommended for these plants.

And there is the question of cold hardiness.  Most growers will dig and store the tubers for the winter.  Tony Avent suggests that most varieties can stay in the ground unless winter temps get down in the 5-10 F range.  We can’t guarantee that it will or won’t get that cold in our winters.  So it’s probably best to dig them before severe cold weather and store them until after risk of frost next winter.

For most of us, good soil preparation and good management through the growing season will produce “elephant ears.”  If you want them bigger than that, you probably need to push them with careful management of water and fertilizer.  Good luck!

alcooke

Al Cooke
Extension Agent, Horticulture
Chatham County Center, N.C. Cooperative Extension
PO Box 279, Pittsboro, NC  27312
919.542-8202; Fax 919.542.8246