Colocasia Esculenta ‘Black Ruffles’ – Elephant Ear Live Plant
Meet the Black Ruffles Elephant Ear — a dramatic tropical statement plant that takes everything you love about the classic Black Magic Colocasia and adds a stunning twist. Its deep purple-black leaves feature a distinctive ruffled texture that adds extraordinary depth and dimension to any garden bed, container, or water feature.
Deep plum stems complement the dark foliage for a bold, moody aesthetic that looks spectacular against lighter plants or bright blooms. As the plant matures, its signature ruffled edges and rich coloring become even more defined — a true showpiece that grows more impressive every season.
Plant Specifications
-
Scientific Name: Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Ruffles’
-
Common Name: Black Ruffles Elephant Ear
-
Mature Height: 4–6 feet
-
Light: 65–73% shade preferred; 80% shade maximum
-
Soil: Boggy but well-drained
-
USDA Hardiness Zones: 7b–10
-
Foliage Color: Deep purple-black with ruffled texture
-
Stem Color: Deep plum
-
Location: Grown and shipped from Lakeland, FL, USA
What You’ll Receive
- 1 live baby plant, 3–8 inches tall, in a 3-inch-deep pot
- Ready to transplant into your garden or a larger container
- Note: Young plants may not yet show full ruffling — this develops beautifully as the plant matures
Frequently Asked Questions
What size plant will I receive?
You will receive 1 live baby plant, 3–8 inches tall, shipped in a 3-inch-deep pot — rooted and ready to grow on under your care.
Why doesn’t my plant look exactly like the photo?
Young Elephant Ear plants develop their full characteristics as they mature. The deep ruffling and rich dark coloring become more defined with time — give it a season and you’ll be amazed at the transformation.
How much light does Black Ruffles need?
It thrives in dappled shade or bright indirect light — ideally 65–73% shade. Avoid harsh direct afternoon sun, which can bleach the dramatic dark foliage. Maximum 80% shade.
Can I grow Black Ruffles in a container or pond?
Yes — it grows beautifully in large containers and is also well-suited to boggy areas, pond margins, and water features. Use rich, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage.
Is Black Ruffles Elephant Ear winter-hardy?
It is hardy in USDA zones 7b–10. In colder zones, dig up the corm before the first frost and store it indoors in a cool, dry place until spring.
