Remusatia vivipara
perennial

Hitchhiker Elephant Ear

Remusatia vivipara

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia, Africa

Toxicity

Yes

The Story

Plant Bio

Remusatia vivipara is a perennial herbaceous plant with broad, heart-shaped leaves and distinctive, often aerial, tubers. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers and bright red berries in its natural habitat. This species is notable for its vigorous growth and ability to propagate via tuber division, making it a popular choice for shaded, tropical, and subtropical garden settings.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides striking dark foliage year-round, adding drama to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesPrefers moist, well-drained soil, ideal for rain gardens.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local insect populations with its lush foliage.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-draining soil
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
  3. Mist foliage to increase humidity in dry environments
  4. Place in partial shade to protect from harsh sun
  5. Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  6. Divide rhizomes every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays moist but well-drained to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during growing season 💧
  • Apply balanced fertilizer in spring 🌱
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates
  • Never disturb rhizomes when dormant

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden with lush, dark foliageMoist woodland borderExotic plant display

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Elephant Ear

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hitchhiker Elephant Ear questions

What zones can Hitchhiker Elephant Ear grow in?

Hitchhiker Elephant Ear is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hitchhiker Elephant Ear deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Hitchhiker Elephant Ear, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Hitchhiker Elephant Ear bloom?

Hitchhiker Elephant Ear typically blooms in summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hitchhiker Elephant Ear need full sun?

Hitchhiker Elephant Ear does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Collections featuring this plant

Grow Hitchhiker Elephant Ear with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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