Colocasia Esculenta 'Rubra' (Elephant Ear) - Marginal Pond Plant - EP015

Colocasia esculenta ‘Rubra’, commonly known as Rubra Elephant Ear, is a striking tropical perennial grown for its bold foliage and dramatic presence in the garden. This cultivar of Colocasia esculenta is noted for its deep green leaves with a reddish tint and contrasting red stems, making it an eye-catching addition to water gardens, bog gardens, and tropical landscapes.

Description

Colocasia esculenta ‘Rubra’ typically grows to a height of 1.2–1.8 meters (4–6 feet) with a similar spread. The plant features large, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green with a subtle reddish hue, adding depth and vibrancy to the foliage. The leaves are held on robust, reddish-purple petioles that accentuate the plant’s tropical appeal.

During the growing season (summer to autumn), the plant may produce small, inconspicuous flowers on a spadix, enclosed in a greenish spathe. However, its primary ornamental value lies in its foliage.

Growing Conditions

Colocasia esculenta ‘Rubra’ thrives in full sun to partial shade, though partial shade is ideal in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch. It prefers consistently moist or waterlogged soil, making it perfect for planting in shallow water at pond edges or in bog gardens. The plant grows well in a range of soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soils, as long as they are nutrient-rich and slightly acidic to neutral in pH.

Hardy in the UK in milder regions, Rubra Elephant Ear is frost-sensitive and may need to be treated as an annual in colder climates or lifted and overwintered indoors.

Propagation and Care

Colocasia esculenta ‘Rubra’ is propagated by division or tubers. Division is best done in early spring or autumn by carefully separating the offsets or rhizomes from the parent plant and replanting them in suitable conditions. Tubers can also be stored in a cool, dry place during winter and replanted in spring.

Once established, the plant requires minimal care. Regular watering is essential to maintain the damp conditions it prefers. Fertilizing with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season promotes lush foliage. In autumn, lift and store the tubers in frost-prone areas, or provide a thick mulch to protect the plant over winter.

Uses

Ornamental:

Colocasia esculenta ‘Rubra’ is a stunning feature plant for water gardens, tropical-themed landscapes, and large containers. Its bold foliage and contrasting red stems make it a focal point in mixed plantings. It pairs well with other moisture-loving tropical plants, such as Canna indica (Indian Shot), Hedychium (Ginger Lily), and Alocasia species.

Container Planting:

This plant grows well in large containers, making it a versatile choice for patios, decks, or balconies with a water feature. Container planting also allows for easy overwintering in colder climates.

Ecological Value

Colocasia esculenta ‘Rubra’ provides shelter and habitat for small wildlife and insects in water gardens and wetland areas. Its large leaves can create shade and microhabitats for beneficial creatures, contributing to the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems.

Considerations

• Frost Sensitivity: This plant is frost-tender and must be overwintered indoors or treated as an annual in colder climates.
• Moisture Needs: The plant requires consistently moist or waterlogged soil to thrive and should not be allowed to dry out.
• Invasive Potential: While it is not as aggressive as some Colocasia species, it may spread in optimal conditions. Containment in pots or regular monitoring is recommended in smaller spaces.

Summary

With its striking foliage, red stems, and tropical aesthetic, Colocasia esculenta ‘Rubra’ is a standout choice for water gardens, pond edges, and tropical landscapes. Its bold, architectural presence makes it a focal point in any garden, while its adaptability to wet conditions ensures it thrives in aquatic and boggy settings. Easy to grow and maintain in the right conditions, this Elephant Ear cultivar adds a touch of drama and exotic beauty to any outdoor space.

Why Choose Colocasia esculenta 'Rubra' (Red Elephant Ear)?

Colocasia esculenta 'Rubra', commonly known as Red Elephant Ear, is an eye-catching and dramatic perennial that thrives in moist conditions and shallow water. Known for its large, deep red stems and glossy, dark green leaves with a subtle reddish tint, this plant is a striking addition to any water garden, pond edge, or tropical-inspired landscape. With its bold appearance and versatility, it’s a perfect choice for gardeners looking to add tropical flair and visual interest to their outdoor space.

1. Bold, Red Stems

• Colocasia esculenta 'Rubra' is characterized by its vibrant red stems, which give it an exotic, tropical appearance.
• The red stems create a dramatic contrast against the dark green foliage, making this plant a bold and attention-grabbing focal point in any garden.
• The striking stems add vertical interest to the landscape, creating height and structure, especially when paired with other moisture-loving plants.

2. Glossy, Dark Green Leaves

• Features large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that are deep green with subtle reddish veins, adding a rich, tropical look to your garden.
• The leaves provide a lush backdrop for the red stems and create an eye-catching combination of color and texture.
• The plant’s dramatic foliage adds elegance and structure to wetland gardens or tropical-themed landscapes.

3. Thrives in Wet and Moist Conditions

• Red Elephant Ear thrives in moist soil or shallow water (up to 20–30 cm / 8–12 inches deep), making it perfect for planting along pond edges, bog gardens, or in wet meadows.
• Performs best in full sun to partial shade, offering flexibility in planting locations while ensuring healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

4. Hardy and Low Maintenance

• Colocasia esculenta 'Rubra' is a hardy perennial that tolerates fluctuating water levels and varying moisture conditions, making it well-suited for diverse wetland environments.
• It is low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established, making it a great option for gardeners who want an attractive, resilient plant with little upkeep.

5. Wildlife-Friendly

• The large leaves of Red Elephant Ear provide shelter for small creatures like insects and amphibians, supporting a healthy garden ecosystem.
• While the plant does not produce particularly showy flowers, the dramatic foliage and striking stems attract pollinators and add visual interest throughout the growing season.

6. Erosion Control and Water Filtration

• The plant’s dense root system helps stabilize soil, making it an excellent choice for erosion control along pond banks and wetland areas.
• Colocasia esculenta 'Rubra' also helps to filter water, improving water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and contributing to the overall health of your aquatic garden.

7. Versatile Design Use

• Perfect for water gardens, bog gardens, pond edges, or tropical landscapes, where it can provide both height and color.
• Works well in naturalistic plantings, where its bold foliage can complement other moisture-loving plants, or as a striking focal point in more formal garden designs.

Key Features

• Height: 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet)
• Flowers: Unshowy, with a focus on foliage and stems
• Soil: Moist to wet soil or shallow water
• Light: Full sun to partial shade

Colocasia esculenta 'Rubra' (Red Elephant Ear) is a dramatic, tropical addition to any wetland or water garden. Its bold red stems, glossy leaves, and ability to thrive in moist environments make it an excellent choice for enhancing the beauty and structure of your garden.