The Magnificent Blue Hawaiian Elephant Ear Plant

The blue hawaiian elephant ear plant, scientifically known as Colocasia esculenta ‘Blue Hawaii’, is a truly stunning tropical plant. With its large, distinctive leaves in shades of blue, green and purple, it makes a dramatic statement in any garden.

Overview

The blue hawaiian elephant ear is a cultivar of the common elephant ear plant, which is native to tropical parts of Asia. It’s known for its huge heart-shaped leaves which can grow over 3 feet long! The leaves emerge a bluish-green color with eye-catching dark purple veining As the season progresses, the leaves develop a washed out appearance with the veins fading to pink

One of the most striking features of this plant is the color contrast between the tops and undersides of the leaves. The tops have those gorgeous blue-green and purple tones while the undersides are a deep burgundy red. When the wind blows, it creates a wonderful show as the leaves flutter and dance, revealing the red coloring.

In addition to its fabulous foliage, the blue hawaiian elephant ear produces yellow flower spathes in summer. However, it’s really grown for its tropical, architectural leaves rather than the blooms.

This elephant ear variety was bred by plant expert John Cho and introduced in 2008. It’s still quite rare to find compared to the common green-leaved types.

Growing Conditions

The blue hawaiian elephant ear is considered a tropical plant It thrives in warm, humid environments and cannot tolerate frost

This plant prefers partial shade locations but can handle full sun as long as the soil stays consistently moist. Rich, humus-rich soil is ideal as it encourages large, lush leaf growth.

During the growing season, be sure to water whenever the top few inches of soil become dry. The leaves will quickly start to droop and look stressed if the plant lacks water.

In areas with cold winters, the blue hawaiian elephant ear can be grown as an annual or brought indoors. The plant goes dormant once temperatures drop below 50°F.

To overwinter it indoors, cut back the foliage and dig up the tubers or rhizomes once the plant dies back after the first frost. Store them in a cool place like a basement until spring.

Planting and Care

This elephant ear variety can be planted from tubers, rhizomes or young plants. For fastest growth, look for plants that are already a foot or two high.

Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow room for the huge leaves to spread out. Plant them in a partly shady area enriched with compost or manure. The soil should be moist but well-draining to prevent rotting.

Keep the plants well watered for the first few weeks while the root system establishes. Then adopt a regular watering routine, providing a thorough soaking whenever the top few inches become dry.

Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer or one higher in nitrogen to promote lush foliage. Watch for pests like aphids and Japanese beetles which may chew the leaves.

In zones 8-10 where they are perennial, the elephant ears will die back after the first frost. At this point, cut off the dead foliage and mulch the roots for winter.

In colder zones, dig up the tubers or rhizomes once frost kills the plant. Shake off excess soil and allow to dry for a few days. Then store in a cool spot until spring planting time.

Design Uses

With its huge, boldly colored leaves, the blue hawaiian elephant ear immediately draws the eye. It makes a wonderful specimen plant and works beautifully as a backdrop or border.

Try planting a row along a fence or wall. The large leaves will help hide unattractive views while adding a tropical look to the garden.

Or place blue hawaiian elephant ears behind smaller plants in island style beds and borders. They make the perfect backdrop for shorter flowering tropicals like canna and hibiscus.

The colorful foliage also looks striking when contrasted with green-leaved companions. Plant it beside plants with purple flowers or leaves for a colorful combination.

For ponds and water gardens, situate the elephant ears at the edges where their feet can remain wet. The huge leaves help disguise fading blooms and dying foliage on other plants later in the season.

Containers are another excellent way to showcase this plant. Choose a pot at least 18-24 inches wide and deep for each plant. Keep the soil moist for best growth in pots.

Varieties

The blue hawaiian elephant ear was introduced by plant breeder John Cho. It’s still quite difficult to find compared to more common green varieties.

Some other popular elephant ear cultivars include:

• Black Magic – Nearly black leaves with bright green veins.

• Hawaiian Punch – Lime green leaves with dark red undersides.

• Lime Zinger – Chartreuse foliage on compact 2 foot plants.

• Pink China – Pink stems and leaf veins.

• Black Coral – Deep burgundy leaves.

• Thai Giant – Huge 6 foot leaves on massive plants.

No matter which variety you choose, the elephant ear’s huge, tropical foliage is sure to make a bold statement in the garden!

Problems and Pests

Elephant ears are generally trouble-free plants when provided with suitable growing conditions. However, there are a few potential problems to watch for:

• Drooping leaves – This is a sign of underwatering. Elephant ears need consistently moist soil.

• Wilting – If plants wilt even when soil is moist, the roots may be damaged from overwatering or other issues.

• Holes in leaves – Watch for insect pests like Japanese beetles which feed on the foliage. Hand pick or use insecticidal soap.

• Rotting tubers – Prevent tuber rot by storing in a cool spot over winter, not too wet. Discard any that show signs of mold or decay.

• Failure to overwinter – In colder climates, failure to properly store the dormant tubers over winter will result in plant death.

• Frost damage – Temperatures below 50°F will quickly damage the foliage. Protect plants or move pots inside if frost is expected.

When provided with suitable growing conditions and proper overwintering care, the magnificent blue hawaiian elephant ear will thrive for many years in the garden!