Species

Colocasia esculentaTaro

27 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Black Magic Taro

Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic'

$26.49

The Story

Plant Bio

Colocasia esculenta 'Black Magic' is known for its stunning dark foliage, which adds dramatic contrast to gardens.

Unique deep purple-black leaves and an upright habit make this cultivar stand out from other elephant ear varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

The striking dark foliage adds dramatic contrast to tropical garden settings.

Provides excellent shade and water filtration in pond areas.

Supports pollinators attracted to its flowers and foliage.

SpeciesColocasia esculentaTaro

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

36 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

High

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable climates

Native To

Southeast Asia

Toxicity

All parts are poisonous if ingested raw; cook to destroy toxins.

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Eden Brothers

In Stock$26.49

Rocky Knoll Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$36.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck corms into well-draining soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist for optimal growth.
Mist leaves regularly during dry spells to increase humidity.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid feed during the growing season.
Remove dead leaves to encourage new growth in late fall.
Divide corms in early spring or late fall for propagation.

Pro Tip

Plant corms at a depth twice their size for better stability and growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Provide partial shade in hot climates
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly in growing season
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Prune dead leaves to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
Don’t expose to freezing temperatures without protection
Avoid using heavy clay soil that retains excess water
Don’t let leaves stay wet for prolonged periods
Avoid planting too shallow or too deep

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical water feature borderLarge leafy backdrop for exotic gardensShade-loving pond perimeter

Companion Plants

Ferns Caladium Canna LilyElephant Ear Hostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Black Magic Taro questions

What zones can Black Magic Taro grow in?

Black Magic Taro is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Black Magic Taro deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Black Magic Taro, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Black Magic Taro bloom?

Black Magic Taro typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Black Magic Taro need full sun?

Black Magic Taro does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.