Colocasia esculenta – Coffee Cups

Garden Height
36 - 60
Spacing
36 - 60
Spread
30 - 48
Habit
Upright
Container Role
Thriller
Flower Size
Tall
Light Level
Part Sun to Sun
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This is one of my all-time favorite plants. The cupped foliage will collect rainwater until there is enough water to bend the stem and pour the water out. It is really cool and will appeal to kids of all ages. Colocasia are great tropical plants suited to be grown as annuals in cold winter climates and perennials in warm winter climates. Some Colocasia tend to spread by runners, while others remain as a clump.  Coffee Cups is a clumper.

Features

This is one of my all-time favorite plants. The cupped foliage will collect rainwater until there is enough water to bend the stem and pour the water out. It is really cool and will appeal to kids of all ages. Colocasia are great tropical plants suited to be grown as annuals in cold winter climates and perennials in warm winter climates. Some Colocasia tend to spread by runners, while others remain as a clump.  Coffee Cups is a clumper.

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Dead-Heading Not Necessary

Heat Tolerant

Foliage Interest

Water Plant

Maintenance Notes

According to the Humane Society of America Colocasia plants can be toxic to pets. This is means that the plants are generally identified as having the capability for producing a toxic reaction.

This plant is not edible and can be harmful to humans if ingested.

These are durable plants that will perform best with moist to wet soil, but can tolerate some drought stress. Drought stress will negatively affect the appearance of the plant.

Colocasia form tubers and these tubers can be stored for replanting in the spring. To dig and store tubers follow these directions. First, allow frost to kill the top of the plant then cut back the stems and dig the tubers. Wash off any soil and then allow the tubers to dry. Wrap dry tubers in newspapers or pack them in peat moss. Label each tuber or group of tubers so you know what they are come spring. Store tubers in a dark, cool (35 to 45 F) place. Do not allow tubers to freeze.

Uses Notes

Great in landscapes on containers. It makes a fun and unique focal plant.

Maintenance Category Easy

Water Category Average

Bloom Time

Flower Form Container, Landscape, Specimen or Focal Point

pH B - pH 5.8 - 6.2

EC (2:1 Extraction Method) 0.6 - 0.9

Fertilization 150 - 200

Light Requirements Medium, High

Water Requirements Moderate to Moist

Rooting Out Temperature 65 - 72° Fahrenheit

Growing On Temperature 70 - 75° Fahrenheit

Holding Temperature 50 - 60° Fahrenheit

Planting and Timing Information

Spring through Summer Finish. 1 liner per 4-6" pot.

Finishing Times [weeks]
4-5" and Quart Pot : 7-9
6" and Gallon Pot : 9-11
7-9" Pot : 11-13
10-12" and Two Gallon Pot : 13-15

Pinching and Growth Regulators

Pinching not needed. PGRs are generally not needed. Sumagic is effective if needed.

Pest and Disease Management

General pest and disease practices as listed in notes.

Grower Tips

Colocasia can be cutback if needed.

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