Colocasia esculenta, also known as taro or elephant ear, is a tropical perennial plant native to Southeast Asia and India. Among the various cultivars of this species is the Colocasia esculenta black magic, which is highly valued for its dark purple or black leaves. The leaves of the Colocasia esculenta black magic are large, heart-shaped, and can grow up to 2 feet long. They have a glossy texture and a dramatic dark color that makes them stand out in any garden or landscape. The stems of the plant are also a deep purple or black color, adding to its overall appeal. One of the reasons why the Colocasia esculenta black magic is so popular is its ability to bring a touch of the exotic to any garden.
One of the reasons why the Colocasia esculenta black magic is so popular is its ability to bring a touch of the exotic to any garden. Its striking color provides a nice contrast to green foliage, making it a favorite choice for many gardeners. Additionally, the plant's large size and bold presence make it a great focal point in a garden or as a potted plant on a patio or deck.
Black Magic Elephant Ear - Colocasia esculenta
It's no surprise that the Black Magic Colocasia is the most well-known elephant ear variety, because it's a sharp-looking plant on its own and also provides a stunning backdrop for light-colored plants. The leaves start out as a plum color and darken with age until they're nearly black. If your plant doesn't look just like the picture, give it a little time to grow up. Elephant ears' attributes become even more defined when they mature.
* Average mature height: 3-4 feet
* Light: 65%-75% shade. Likes high light. 80% shade maximum.
* Soil: Boggy but well-drained
* Zones: 7b-10
Plant size. Our plants ship in 3-inch-deep pots when they are 3-6 inches tall so they can grow to maturity under your green thumb.
Damaged, dead, or missing leaves? Many sellers ship elephant ear rhizomes without leaves, but we have found a way to successfully ship with leaves. However, on occasion a leaf is damaged during shipping or some leaves die. No fear! The rhizome is still alive and healthy and will grow new leaves relatively quickly. Just repot and trim off any damaged or dead leaves. During fall and winter, elephant ears may ship without leaves because they are dormant. This is an important part of the growing cycle in which it's strengthening its root system. It's still a healthy, viable plant that will grow new leaves in spring when there is more light and there are warmer temperatures during the day and night. Just protect from extreme cold and water every week or two.
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Plant Size
A baby plant, that is 3-8 inches tall, will arrive at your home in a 3-inch-deep pot. Then, raise your new baby to maturity under your caring, green thumb.
Questions or Problems?
We have shipped thousands of plants safely to their destinations; however, please send us a picture of your plant(s) within 48 hours of arrival if you have any questions or problems. We can then assess for our Live Delivery Guarantee.
Dead Leaves?
Many sellers ship elephant ear rhizomes without leaves, but we have found a way to successfully ship with leaves. However, on occasion a leaf is damaged during shipping or some leaves die. No fear! The rhizome is still alive and healthy and will grow new leaves relatively quickly. Just repot and trim off any damaged or dead leaves.
Dormancy
In the winter, this plant generally loses its leaves and may arrive bare to you. This is totally normal and actually very healthy. Like hibernation, dormancy is an important part of the growing cycle when plants are strengthening their root systems instead of focusing on creating new growth. They are still healthy, viable plants that will begin growing new leaves in spring with more light and warmer temperatures during the day and night.
Fertilizer
Make your Alocasias and Colocasias thrive with Wellspring Gardens' premium water-soluble Elephant Ear Fuel! Once a week, use a one-gallon watering can and the amount of fuel specified below. Your elephant ears will thank you.
• Indoor potted plants: 1/4 teaspoon
• Outdoor potted plants: 1/2 teaspoon
• Outdoor landscape plants: 1 teaspoon
Cold Weather Shipping
We don’t advise shipping in freezing temperatures. Please ensure temperature lows in your area aren't under 35℉ when you order. If they are that low, just email us and we will be happy to hold your order. Also, make sure to track your package closely and retrieve it as soon as it arrives. We insulate packages bound for cold destinations. We do not, however, use heat packs.
Orders ship 2-3 business days after payment is received. During this time, we will be busy handpicking your plants and processing them per USDA requirements, double checking them, and then packing with care for a safe journey to you.
In terms of care, the Colocasia esculenta black magic prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but it is important to keep the soil consistently moist, as the plant requires a lot of water to grow and thrive. Propagation of the Colocasia esculenta black magic can be done through division or by planting the corms, which are modified underground stems. When dividing the plant, it is best to do so in the spring when new growth appears. The corms can be planted in pots or directly in the ground, ensuring that the growing points are facing up. In conclusion, the Colocasia esculenta black magic is a stunning cultivar of the taro plant known for its dark purple or black leaves. Its striking color and large size make it a popular choice for many gardeners looking to add a touch of the exotic to their landscape. With proper care and attention, this plant can be a beautiful addition to any garden or patio area..
Reviews for "How to Propagate and Multiply Colocasia Esculenta Black Magic"
1. Jessica - 1 out of 5 stars
I was really excited to add the Colocasia esculenta black magic to my garden, but I was extremely disappointed with the outcome. The plant grew slowly and never really thrived. The leaves started turning yellow and there were no signs of new growth. I tried different planting conditions and even adjusted the watering, but nothing seemed to help. Eventually, the plant died completely. I was really disappointed with this purchase and wouldn't recommend it to others.
2. Michael - 2 out of 5 stars
I had high hopes for the Colocasia esculenta black magic, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The plant started off fine, but soon it became infested with pests and diseases. I tried various treatments to try and save it, but nothing seemed to work. In the end, I had to remove the plant from my garden to prevent the pests from spreading to other plants. It was a frustrating experience and I wouldn't recommend this plant to fellow gardeners.
3. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars
I found the Colocasia esculenta black magic difficult to grow and maintain. Despite following all the care instructions carefully, the plant didn't thrive in my garden. The leaves looked pale and didn't have the vibrant color that I expected. It required constant monitoring and care, and even then, it didn't produce the desired results. Overall, I found it to be a hassle and wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for an easy-to-grow plant.