Royal Hawaiian 'Waikiki' Elephant Ears

Description

The Royal Hawaiian 'Waikiki' Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta) is a stunning tropical plant known for its dramatic, large, and vibrant foliage. Featuring striking emerald green leaves with deep purple veins and a glossy texture, this variety brings a bold, exotic flair to your garden or landscape. The Waikiki variety is a perfect choice for adding a tropical touch to shaded areas, borders, or containers, and is admired for its ability to thrive in both sun and shade. With its large, heart-shaped leaves and captivating colors, this plant is a true showstopper.

Features and Specifications:

• Leaf Color: Bold, deep emerald green leaves with striking purple veins, creating a dramatic, colorful effect in your garden.
• Leaf Shape: Large, heart-shaped, and glossy, with a tropical, bold texture that enhances any garden or landscape.
• Plant Height: Grows up to 90–120 cm (36–48 inches) in height, perfect for creating a lush, towering effect.
• Spread: Spreads 60–90 cm (24–36 inches), forming a substantial clump of foliage that fills space beautifully.
• Sunlight Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it versatile for various garden conditions. However, it does best in dappled or filtered sunlight.
• Soil Type: Prefers rich, well-drained soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged, mimicking its native tropical environment.
• Hardiness Zones: Best suited for USDA zones 8–11, but can be grown as an annual in cooler climates or brought indoors during the colder months.
• Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during warm weather. Ensure soil is kept moist, but not waterlogged, to avoid root rot.
• Flowering: Although it’s mainly grown for its foliage, it may occasionally produce small, spathes with a subtle bloom, adding an extra touch of interest.
• Uses: Ideal for tropical, woodland, or shaded gardens, containers, and as a backdrop for flowering plants. Works well in water features or pond-side plantings due to its love for moisture.
•  

Planting Instructions:

1. Planting Time: Plant in the spring, once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to a suitable temperature.
2. Depth and Spacing: Plant tubers 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) deep and space them 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) apart to allow for full growth.
3. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially in hot weather, to mimic its native wetland habitat. Ensure good drainage to avoid standing water.
4. Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, ideally every 4–6 weeks, to support robust growth and vibrant foliage.
5. Maintenance: Trim any damaged or dead leaves to maintain a clean and healthy appearance. If planting in colder regions, dig up the tubers in fall and store them in a cool, dry location for the winter.
6.  

Key Benefits:

• Dramatic Foliage: The large, glossy emerald-green leaves with purple veins provide an eye-catching contrast in any garden, adding bold tropical appeal.
• Tropical Charm: Perfect for adding a tropical or exotic touch to shaded or partially shaded areas, creating a luxurious feel in your landscape.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it an ideal plant for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike.
• Versatile Placement: Thrives in a variety of settings, from tropical gardens to containers, water features, and as a backdrop for other plants.

Stunning Visual Impact: With its size, color, and texture, the Royal Hawaiian 'Waikiki' Elephant Ear makes a bold statement in any garden or outdoor space.

The Royal Hawaiian 'Waikiki' Elephant Ear is a magnificent, tropical plant that adds both elegance and drama to your garden. Its striking foliage, ease of care, and tropical flair make it a must-have for gardeners looking to create an exotic oasis or add a touch of the tropics to any outdoor space.