perennial

Elephant Ear Ruffles

Colocasia esculenta 'Ruffles'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

8, 9

Water

Requires consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

Tropical Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Colocasia esculenta 'Ruffles' is a tropical perennial known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with ruffled edges, growing in clumps and producing striking foliage that adds lushness to gardens and containers. This cultivar features uniquely ruffled leaf margins that create a textured, ornamental appearance, making it especially attractive as a focal plant in shaded or water-feature gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Striking tropical foliage adds dramatic flair to shaded gardens and water features.

Prefers moist, rich soils, helping to manage garden moisture levels.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and contributes to biodiversity in water-rich areas.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in moist, rich soil.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
Mist foliage during dry periods for best growth.
Place in partial shade to protect from scorching sun.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide rhizomes every 2-3 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains moist and provide partial shade for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water frequently to keep soil moist 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Fertilize monthly during growing season
Divide rhizomes every few years

Don't

Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
Expose to harsh full sun in hot climates ❌
Over-fertilize which can cause leggy growth
Ignore pests like aphids

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical border with lush, green foliageShade garden accent with dramatic leavesWater feature planting for moisture-loving plants

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Elephant ears

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Elephant Ear Ruffles questions

What zones can Elephant Ear Ruffles grow in?

Elephant Ear Ruffles 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 Elephant Ear Ruffles deer resistant?

Yes — Elephant Ear Ruffles is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Elephant Ear Ruffles bloom?

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

Does Elephant Ear Ruffles need full sun?

Elephant Ear Ruffles does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.