Giant Elephant’s Ear

(Leucocasia gigantea)

Giant Elephant’s Ear (Leucocasia gigantea)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Leucocasia gigantea image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Leucocasia gigantea, commonly known as Giant Elephant’s Ear, is a perennial herb that can be evergreen or semi-deciduous depending on the climate. It is native to the tropical rainforests and swampy areas of Southeast Asia, where it thrives in the warm, humid conditions. This plant can reach a height and width of 4-7 feet, with large, arrow-shaped leaves that can be quite striking in appearance. The flowers, which appear in the spring and summer, are less conspicuous than the foliage, with a pale yellow spadix and a white spathe.

Giant Elephant’s Ear is valued for its dramatic foliage, which can add a tropical feel to gardens. It is often used in landscaping for its bold textural contrast, particularly in water gardens, as a container plant, or in shaded garden areas where its large leaves can be appreciated. While it prefers full sun to part shade, it requires consistently moist soil and does not tolerate drought well. It is important to provide a sheltered location to protect the large leaves from wind damage. In terms of cultivation, it is relatively easy to maintain if its water and light requirements are met.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 4-7 feet
  • Width: 4-7 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen, Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Slow

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Rabbit Resistant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical rainforests and swampy areas of Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Colocasia gigantea, Leucocasia gigantea, Caladium giganteum, Arisaema fouyou, Colocasia gigentea, Colocasia prunipes,

GBIF Accepted Name: Leucocasia gigantea (Blume) Schott