Species

Colocasia esculentaTaro

27 other cultivars

perennial

Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe

Colocasia esculenta 'Tiger Stripe'

The Story

Plant Bio

Colocasia esculenta 'Tiger Stripe' is a tropical perennial with large, heart-shaped leaves marked by striking green and dark purple stripes, creating a bold, ornamental foliage display.

This cultivar is renowned for its vividly patterned foliage, making it a standout feature in water gardens and tropical-themed plantings, with an impressive tolerance for moist, boggy soils.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking tropical foliage adds bold color and texture to shaded gardens and water features.

Edible corms provide a nutritious harvest, and large leaves offer natural shade.

Attracts beneficial insects and provides habitat for pond wildlife.

SpeciesColocasia esculentaTaro

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck corms 2 inches deep in moist, rich soil in spring.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.
Mist foliage during dry periods to maintain humidity.
Provide partial shade in hot climates for best foliage color.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring for propagation.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining, moist soil with partial shade for vibrant foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Provide partial shade in hot climates
Fertilize monthly during the growing season

Don't

Allow soil to dry out completely ❌
Expose to full, harsh sun 🌞
Forget to divide clumps every few years

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-themed pond borderMoist, dramatic foliage accentShade garden focal point

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Elephant Ear (other cultivars) Columbine

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe questions

What zones can Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe grow in?

Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe 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 Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe deer resistant?

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

When does Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe bloom?

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

Does Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe need full sun?

Elephant Ear Tiger Stripe does best in part shade.