Black Bamboo

There are several similar plants that are known as Elephant Ear plants, sometimes also called Taro, the most commonly found being Colocasia esculenta (others include Alocasia and Xanthosoma).

The key characteristic is, of course, the enormous leaves which bear a resemblance to elephant ears. Typically the plant will have few leaves, and will reach a height of 1-2 metres depending on soil conditions, with leaves perhaps 30-50 cm long.

In many tropical regions Colocosia is grown for its edible tubers. (Note - do not eat these at home, they are irritant even poisonous ifnot prepared correctly).

However in more temperate climates they are grown for their ornamental value, and need protection indoors during the colder months - this either means digging up the tubers, or growing the plant in a moveable container.

The plant is usually bought as a tuber to be planted, or sometimes as a small plant.

The Elephant Ear plant prefers quite fertile soil, a shady position, and regular watering. The leaves wilt very rapidly if the soil becomes too dry. They also benefit from nitrogen based fertilisers being applied every few weeks.

Apart from the usual green leaved varieties, it is possible to buy variegated plants, and also plants with purple-black leaves.