Hey plant lovers! I’ve been absolutely obsessed with the Pink China elephant ear plant lately, and I just had to share everything I’ve learned about this gorgeous tropical beauty. Whether you’re a newbie gardener or a seasoned plant parent, this guide will help you successfully grow and care for this stunning variety.
What Makes Pink China Elephant Ear So Special?
The Pink China elephant ear (Colocasia esculenta ‘Pink China’) is a show-stopping plant that’ll make your neighbors go “wow!” Here’s why I’m in love with it
- Stunning pink-red stems that really pop against the green leaves
- Huge heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 2 feet long
- Super hardy – survives in zones 6-10 (one of the most cold-tolerant varieties!)
- Fast-growing and reaches 4-6 feet tall and wide
- Works great in containers or ground plantings
Growing Requirements
Light & Location
- Full sun to partial shade
- Protection from strong winds (those big leaves can tear!)
- At least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Afternoon shade appreciated in hot climates
Soil & Water
- Rich, fertile soil with lots of organic matter
- Consistently moist soil (never let it dry out!)
- Regular watering – at least 1-2 inches per week
- Good drainage to prevent root rot
Temperature & Climate
- Best growth when soil temps are above 70°F
- Bring containers indoors if temps drop below 50°F
- Hardy in zones 6b-10 with proper winter protection
- Mulch heavily in colder zones
Planting Your Pink China Elephant Ear
Here’s my step-by-step guide to getting your plant in the ground
- Wait until after last frost and soil warms up
- Choose a spot with rich, loose soil
- Dig hole about 3-6 inches deep
- Place bulb with top 1/3 above soil level
- Space plants 36-48 inches apart
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Add 2-3 inches of mulch around plant
Container Growing Tips
I’ve had great success growing these beauties in containers! Here’s what works
- Use minimum 20-24 inch diameter pots
- Ensure good drainage holes
- Fill with quality tropical plant potting mix
- Fertilize monthly during growing season
- Move pots to sheltered spots during extreme weather
- Bring indoors before first frost
Winter Care & Storage
Living in a colder zone? No worries! Here’s how to overwinter your Pink China:
- Cut back foliage after first light frost
- Dig up bulbs carefully (wear gloves!)
- Let bulbs dry 2-3 weeks in indirect light
- Store in peat moss or vermiculite
- Keep in cool (50-60°F), dry location
- Check monthly for rotting
- Replant in spring when soil warms
Common Problems & Solutions
Even the prettiest plants have their issues. Here’s how to handle common problems:
Drooping Leaves
- Usually means not enough water
- Check soil moisture regularly
- Increase watering during hot spells
Leaf Damage
- Could be wind damage or pests
- Use neem oil for insects
- Move to more sheltered location if needed
Poor Growth
- Usually nutrition-related
- Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer
- Check soil pH and amend if needed
My Personal Tips for Success
After growing these beauties for years, here are my top tips:
- Start with rich soil – these are heavy feeders!
- Don’t skimp on watering – they love moisture
- Group with other moisture-loving plants
- Remove dead leaves promptly
- Give plenty of space to spread
- Be patient – they really get going when it’s warm
Wrapping Up
Pink China elephant ear is definitely one of my fave plants for adding tropical drama to the garden. With proper care, these stunning plants will reward you with gorgeous foliage all season long. Trust me, once you grow one, you’ll be hooked!
Got questions about growing Pink China elephant ear? Drop ’em in the comments below – I’d love to help you succeed with this amazing plant!
Happy gardening, y’all!
Would you like me to explain or break down any part of this article further?
CHARACTERISTICS OF Colocasia esculenta ‘Pink China’
Used with permission, all rights reserved
Used with permission, all rights reserved
Used with permission, all rights reserved
Colocasia esculenta ‘Pink China’ plant details
Colocasia esculenta Pink China is a broadleaf semi-evergreen perennial aquatic aroid bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. Grows well with sun – mostly sun and standing water – regular water. Does well in average and rich soil. A good option if youre seeking something heat tolerant, humidity tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.
COLOCASIA – All You Need to Know About this Highly Underrated AROID | Discover RARE Varieties!
FAQ
How do you care for pink china elephant ears?
Water: Requires consistently moist soil and thrives in shallow standing water, making it ideal for pond edges and bog gardens. Avoid dry conditions. Light: Grows best in partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch.
How big do pink china elephant ears get?
‘Pink China’ generally reaches 4′ tall the first season and it spreads by underground rhizomes creating a larger display with each subsequent year.
How do you take care of pink elephant ears?
- Environment: A large space and large container for your Elephant Ear plant are ideal.
- Sunlight: Put near bright sun (south or west window), but not in direct sunlight. …
- Ideal temperatures: 60-80 degrees.
- Humidity is important: Place plant on a saucer with pebbles and water to create a humid ambiance.
Do elephant ear plants need full sun or shade?
Many types of elephant ears can be grown in partial shade, but the darker colored varieties are best grown in full sun. All need rich, moist soil and nearly all are perfect at the edge of a pond.
What is a pink china elephant ear plant?
The elephant ear plant named Pink China (Colocasia esculenta ‘Pink China’) is an exotic tropical foliage plant known for its huge pink-veined leaves. Adding a touch of the tropics to gardens and containers this elephant ear variety thrives with the right care. Here is a complete guide to growing the beautiful Pink China elephant ear plant.
Is elephant ear a Colocasia?
Elephant Ear ‘Pink China’ (Colocasia hybrid) has brilliant pink stems and rich green leaves with a pink dot in the center to add vibrant color to any container or garden. Possibly the hardiest of all colocasias, ‘Pink China’ can tolerate zone 6 with a heavy layer of mulch as winter protection.
How do you grow a pink china elephant ear?
Here is a complete guide to growing the beautiful Pink China elephant ear plant. Features: Dramatic large leaves up to 2 feet long. Leaf stems and veins are pinkish-red. Hardiness: Grown as an annual in zones 6 and below. Perennial in zones 7-11. Light needs: Grows best in full sun, but tolerates some shade.
What is an elephant ear plant?
The dramatic elephant ears plant is a large, tropical foliage plant with magnificent, heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves. In colder regions, they need to be dug up and stored before winter arrives. Here’s how to grow and care for elephant ears in your garden.
Can you bring a pink china elephant ear indoors?
Bringing containers indoors if overnight temps dip below 50°F. The Pink China elephant ear is ideal for large patio containers and planters. Follow these tips for success: Use at least a 20-24 inch diameter container for each plant. Make sure containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
How do you care for Pink China elephant ears?
Site pink china elephant ears in full sun to partial shade where they’ll get at least 4 hours of direct sun daily. Shelter from strong winds, which can shred the large leaves. Group with plants having similar water needs. Surround with moist-loving plants. Remove spent flowers to encourage more leaf growth.