Elephant Ear True

About this plant

The Colocasia esculenta Royal Hawaiian Black Coral boasts an unparalleled depth of color, with leaves that unfurl in a captivating shade of near-black, providing a striking contrast against brighter plantings. Part of the esteemed Royal Hawaiian series, this Elephant Ear True cultivar is celebrated for its vigorous growth and robust nature, making it an excellent choice for creating a luxurious, tropical-inspired garden. Its large, heart-shaped leaves can grow to impressive sizes, offering significant visual impact whether planted in mass alongside ponds or as a striking focal point in containers. This resilient plant thrives in warm, humid conditions, bringing an exotic and sophisticated touch to patios, pathways, and garden beds. Ideal for landscape designs seeking an element of the dramatic, 'Black Coral' creates a lush understory or a majestic vertical accent. Its unique coloration remains vibrant throughout the growing season, enduring as a testament to its beauty and strength.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Colocasia esculenta Royal Hawaiian Black Coral thrives in consistently moist, well-drained soil. Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to encourage lush foliage. In colder climates, lift tubers before the first frost and store in a cool, dry place for replanting in spring.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.