Elephant ear
Colocasia esculenta
Very large heart- to arrow-shaped leaves with prominent veins on long stalks.
Find its rhythm
Light
Filtered light; shelter from harsh afternoon sun
Water
Keep the root zone lightly moist, never saturated. Check frequently rather than allowing the entire pot to dry. Start with a soil check every 4 days and adjust for your conditions.
Care through the seasons
Soil & drainage
Use an airy container mix and a pot with open drainage holes.
Climate
Protect from dry drafts and strong direct sun; monitor humidity and leaf edges.
Seasonal care
As growth slows, check moisture before watering; the same calendar interval may be too frequent.
Feeding
Feed only during active growth, following the product label. Pause if roots are stressed.
Pruning
Remove dead foliage with clean tools; keep healthy leaves to support growth.
Propagation
Division
Hardiness
8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b
Watch for
Persistent wet soil · Leaf pests · Light stress
Care-group starting guidance; adapt to your cultivar and local climate.
Pet & child safety
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA)
Signs in cats and dogs (ASPCA): Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not horses), difficulty swallowing
Toxic to children: oxalate crystals (California Poison Control; poison.org)
Calcium oxalate crystals: chewing it causes instant burning pain and swelling of the lips, mouth and tongue; severe swelling can make breathing hard.
Keep plants out of reach of children and pets. Never eat a plant based on an app.
If any is eaten: Call your local poison control centre or vet. In the US: Poison Control 1-800-222-1222; ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply).
- ASPCA · Elephant Ears (Colocasia esculenta) ↗
- California Poison Control · toxic plant list (2023 archive) ↗
- Poison Control · poison.org plant list ↗
Sources checked 10 Nov 2026. Lists change, so check the source before relying on it.