Are there dissimilar type of elephant ears ? Elephant pinna , scientifically known as Colocasia , are a diverse chemical group of plants that come in various shapes , sizes , and colors . These plant are know for their enceinte , arrowhead - shape leaf that resemble the ears of an elephant , hence the name . Let ’s explore some of the dissimilar type of elephant capitulum and their unique gadget characteristic .

1 . Colocasia esculenta : This is the most common variety of elephant pinna and is often referred to as the “ Taro ” plant . It has large , heart - shaped leaves that come in shades of greenish , imperial , or black . The genus Tuber of this plant are edible and are commonly used in cooking , specially in tropic regions . As an avid nurseryman , I have grown this variety in my own backyard and enjoy harvesting and prepare the tubers for a delicious repast .

2 . Colocasia gigantea : As mentioned in the introduction , Colocasia gigantea , also live as Thailand Giant , is a true giant among elephant ears . Its hulk height and monumental leaves make it a show - stopper in any garden or landscape . I have in person seen this variety in botanical garden and it never fails to leave me in fear of its sheer size and knockout .

3 . Colocasia ‘ Black deception ’ : This variety is known for its spectacular , dark-skinned purplish - black leave-taking that add a touch of dramatic event to any garden . The contrast between its morose foliage and the surrounding verdure create a visually stunning gist . I have used ‘ Black thaumaturgy ’ in my own garden to create a focal point and it never fails to draw attention and admiration from visitant .

4 . Colocasia fontanesii : This variety is aboriginal to the Himalayan realm and is characterized by its large , glossy immature leafage that have a slightly undulating sharpness . It is a more thickset variety compared to some of the giants but still hit a bold instruction in any garden . I have seen this plant used as a mete or understory plant in larger landscape , tally a tactile sensation of tropic elegance .

5 . Colocasia fallax : This variety , also known as the ‘ Green Taro ’ , has vivacious light-green leaves with outstanding veins . It is a smaller variety compared to others but still possesses the unequaled appealingness of elephant ear . I have grown this variety in containers and used it to create lush , tropic display on my patio .

6 . Colocasia affinis ‘ Jenningsii ’ : This variety is commonly known as the ‘ Dwarf Elephant Ear ’ due to its compact size of it . It has heart - shape leaves with a calendered green coloring material , making it an fantabulous alternative for smaller garden or containers . I have used this variety in my own urban garden , where space is special , and it impart a touch of tropical style without overpowering the space .

In improver to these specific motley , there are numberless cultivars and loan-blend uncommitted , each with its own unparalleled features and characteristics . Some have variegated leaves , while others have different leaf shape or colors . The world of elephant ear is rightfully various and offers endless possibility for gardeners and landscapers to bestow a touch of alien lulu to their out-of-door spaces .

To summarize , elephant ears come in a wide range of type and varieties , each with its own unequaled dimension . From the hulk Colocasia gigantea to the compact Colocasia affinis ‘ Jenningsii ’ , there is an elephant ear plant to befit every garden and personal preference . Whether you want a bold focal point or a subtle tropic idiom , these plant life are sure to make a program line in any landscape . So , go forrader and explore the fascinating world of elephant ears , and let your garden come up active with their stunning beauty .

Caroline Bates