Black Coral Elephant Ear

About this plant

The Colocasia esculenta 'Royal Hawaiian Black Coral Portfolio' is a true showstopper, celebrated for its incredibly dark, almost iridescent black leaves that are sure to captivate. Each heart-shaped leaf unfurls with an impressive sheen, providing a sophisticated and exotic touch to tropical-themed gardens, waterside plantings, or as a striking focal point in patio containers. Part of the esteemed Royal Hawaiian® series, 'Black Coral' boasts vigorous growth and excellent garden performance, bringing an unparalleled level of drama and texture to your outdoor spaces. Its upright, clumping habit ensures a tidy yet impactful presence, making it an ideal choice for both mass plantings and as a standalone specimen. Whether you're aiming to create a lush, tropical oasis or seeking a unique contrast plant for brighter foliage, 'Black Coral' delivers. Its velvety-smooth leaves absorb light beautifully, offering a dynamic visual interest that shifts with the day, transforming your garden into a truly 'A Cut Above' landscape.

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

Plant in rich, consistently moist to wet soil. Fertilize regularly during the growing season for optimal growth and foliage development. In cooler climates (USDA Zone 7 and below), tubers can be dug up and stored indoors over winter or treated as an annual. Protect from strong winds to prevent leaf damage. Regularly remove any yellowing leaves to maintain appearance.

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.