Black Stem Elephant Ear

Black Stem Elephant Ear (Colocasia fontanesii)

Black Stem Elephant Ear (Colocasia fontanesii) is a bold tropical plant admired for its deep green, arrow-shaped leaves and nearly black stems. Fast-growing and moisture-loving, this striking variety brings dramatic texture and color to garden beds, water features, and large containers, creating a lush, exotic focal point in any landscape.

Distinctive Features

Colocasia fontanesii is known for its rich, dark purple to black stems that contrast beautifully with large, glossy green leaves. Its vigorous growth habit and ability to thrive in wet soil or near water make it a standout in tropical or aquatic-themed plantings. The plant�s strong architectural form adds height and dimension to gardens and patios.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained soil with high organic content.
• Water: Requires consistently moist to wet soil; thrives near ponds or water features.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 8 to 11; grow as an annual or overwinter indoors in cooler climates.

Ideal Uses

• Garden Borders: Creates a dramatic tropical backdrop in mixed plantings.
• Containers: Perfect for large pots on patios, decks, or entryways.
• Water Gardens: Ideal for bog gardens, pond edges, or other wet environments.

Low Maintenance Care

Black Stem Elephant Ear is an easy-care plant that delivers bold foliage and a tropical presence with minimal effort.

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist; never allow it to dry out completely.
• Pruning: Remove damaged or aging leaves to maintain clean, healthy growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.
• Propagation: Propagate easily by dividing tubers in spring or early summer.

Why Choose Black Stem Elephant Ear?

This dramatic colocasia adds a bold statement to both traditional and modern landscapes while thriving in the moisture-rich conditions many plants cannot tolerate.

• Striking Appearance: Deep black stems and lush green leaves create dramatic contrast.
• Moisture Tolerant: Thrives in wet soil, ideal for pondside and rain garden settings.
• Versatile Placement: Excellent for containers, garden beds, or water garden edges.
• Focal Point: A stunning architectural plant that anchors tropical compositions.

Colocasia fontanesii brings structure, drama, and lush tropical character to gardens, offering a reliable focal point that performs beautifully in moisture-rich environments.