Colocasia For Sale

Colocasia Elephant Ear Plants – Best In New Zealand!

Growing perennial plants such as Colocasia (Elephant Ear Plant) delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They attract birds and bees.
• They bring colour and vibrance to a space.
• Greater biodiversity is created.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We’ll help you find the right Colocasia or Black Taro for your space. Choose from a wide variety of locally grown plants that have been propagated and bred to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Colocasia plants, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Colocasia Questions

1. What is the difference between taro and Colocasia?

The terms "taro" and "Colocasia" are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction between the two. "Taro" is the common name for a specific species within the genus Colocasia, namely Colocasia esculenta. This species is the most widely cultivated and consumed taro variety, known for its starchy corms that are used in various cuisines around the world.

On the other hand, "Colocasia" refers to the entire genus, encompassing over 60 species of flowering plants. The genus is characterized by its large, heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped leaves and its edible corms. While Colocasia esculenta is the most common taro species, other species within the genus are also cultivated for their edible corms, such as Colocasia gigantea and Colocasia samoensis.

Here's a summary of the key differences between taro and Colocasia:

Taro

• Refers to a specific species within the Colocasia genus: Colocasia esculenta
• Known for its starchy corms used in various cuisines
• Most widely cultivated and consumed taro variety

Colocasia

• Encompasses the entire genus, including over 60 species
• Characterized by its large, heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped leaves and edible corms
• Other species, such as Colocasia gigantea and Colocasia samoensis, are also cultivated for their edible corms

2. Which is better Alocasia or Colocasia?

Determining whether Alocasia or Colocasia is "better" depends on your individual preferences and intended use. Both genera offer unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different purposes.

Alocasia

• Appearance: Alocasias are known for their striking foliage, with a wide variety of leaf shapes, colors, and textures. Their leaves can be glossy, velvety, or variegated, adding a touch of elegance and drama to indoor spaces.
• Growth Habit: Generally, Alocasias are slower-growing plants compared to Colocasias. They tend to be more compact and manageable in size, making them well-suited for indoor environments.
• Care Requirements: Alocasias generally require moderate light levels and moist but well-draining soil. They are sensitive to overwatering and extreme temperatures.

Colocasia

• Appearance: Colocasias are known for their large, heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped leaves, which can add a tropical feel to gardens and landscapes. Their leaves come in various shades of green and may have a velvety texture.
• Growth Habit: Colocasias are generally faster-growing plants compared to Alocasias. They can reach larger sizes, making them suitable for outdoor spaces and as specimen plants.
• Care Requirements: Colocasias generally prefer full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. They are more tolerant of heat and humidity compared to Alocasias.

Considerations for Choosing:

• Indoor or Outdoor Use: If you're looking for an attractive indoor plant with striking foliage, Alocasia might be a better choice. If you prefer a large, bold statement plant for your garden, Colocasia could be a suitable option.
• Space Availability: Consider the available space when choosing between Alocasia and Colocasia. If space is limited, Alocasia's more compact growth habit might be more suitable. If you have ample outdoor space, Colocasia's larger size can add a dramatic touch to your landscape.
• Care Preferences: Evaluate your ability to provide the necessary care requirements for either Alocasia or Colocasia. If you prefer a low-maintenance plant, Alocasia's moderate care needs might be easier to manage. If you have experience with outdoor plants and can provide the appropriate conditions, Colocasia could thrive in your garden.

Ultimately, the choice between Alocasia and Colocasia depends on your personal preferences, available space, and ability to provide proper care. Both genera offer unique beauty and can enhance your indoor or outdoor spaces.

3. Is Colocasia the same as elephant ear?

Yes, the common name "elephant ear" is often used to refer to Colocasia plants. The term "elephant ear" is derived from the large, heart-shaped leaves of Colocasia plants, which resemble the ears of an elephant. The name is used interchangeably with "Colocasia" to refer to these plants, particularly in horticultural and landscaping contexts. While other plants, such as Xanthosoma and Alocasia, also have large, heart-shaped leaves, Colocasia plants are the most commonly associated with the "elephant ear" moniker. Their distinctive foliage and diverse species have made them popular choices for both indoor and outdoor gardens.

4. Does taro grow in NZ?

Yes, taro grows in New Zealand. It was introduced to New Zealand by Polynesian settlers around 1200 AD. Taro is a tropical plant, but it has been successfully grown in New Zealand's warmer regions, such as Northland and the Bay of Plenty.

Taro is an important food crop for Pacific Islanders and Maori people in New Zealand. The corms, or roots, of the taro plant are eaten cooked. The plant is also a valuable source of starch and fiber. Taro is a relatively low-maintenance crop and can be grown in a variety of soil types, including clay soils. However, it does require warm temperatures and well-drained soil to thrive.

In New Zealand, taro is typically grown in small-scale gardens for home consumption. However, there are also a few commercial taro growers in the country. Taro is sold in both fresh and frozen forms in New Zealand supermarkets.

Here are some of the benefits of growing taro in New Zealand:

• It is a versatile crop that can be grown in a variety of soil types.
• It is a low-maintenance crop that does not require a lot of water or fertilizer.
• It is a nutritious crop that is a good source of starch, fiber, and vitamins.
• It is a culturally important crop for many people in New Zealand.

If you are interested in growing taro in New Zealand, there are a few resources available to help you get started. The Ministry for Primary Industries has a website with information on growing taro, and there are also a number of community gardens and organizations that offer support and advice to growers.

5. Do Māori eat taro?

Taro has been an integral part of the Māori diet for centuries. It was brought to New Zealand by Polynesian settlers around 1200 AD and quickly became a staple food source. Taro is considered a kai rangatira, or food for chiefs, due to its nutritional value and cultural significance.

6. Is NZ taro edible?

New Zealand taro is edible. Taro, also known as Colocasia esculenta, is a starchy root crop that is a staple food source in many Pacific Islander and Polynesian cultures. It was introduced to New Zealand by Polynesian settlers around 1200 AD and has since become an important part of the Māori diet.

Taro is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including steaming, boiling, baking, and frying. It has a starchy, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in soups, stews, and porridges. Taro can also be made into flour, which can be used to make bread, pancakes, and other baked goods.

While all varieties of taro are edible, some varieties are better suited for cooking than others. New Zealand taro is typically a good eating taro, with a starchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. However, it is important to cook taro thoroughly before eating, as it can contain oxalates that can cause irritation if consumed raw.

Here are some tips for cooking New Zealand taro:

• Peel the taro and cut it into small pieces.
• Soak the taro in water for 30 minutes to an hour to remove some of the oxalates.
• Cook the taro in boiling water until it is tender.
• Drain the taro and mash it with a fork or potato ricer.
• Taro can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, porridges, and baked goods.

If you are interested in trying New Zealand taro, you can find it at some specialty food stores or online. You can also grow your own taro if you live in a warm climate with well-drained soil.

7. What is the black elephant ear plant in New Zealand?

There are two main contenders for the title of "black elephant ear plant" in New Zealand:

1. Colocasia Black Magic: This popular cultivar of the taro plant (Colocasia esculenta) features stunningly deep purple leaves and stems that appear almost black, especially in shaded areas. It can grow up to 1 m tall and wide, making it a bold and dramatic addition to the garden.

2. Alocasia Black Coral: This stunning alocasia is known for its glossy, almost iridescent black leaves that emerge with a striking bronze sheen. It's a smaller plant than Colocasia Black Magic, typically reaching around 30-60 cm tall and wide, and thrives as a houseplant or in sheltered outdoor locations.

8. What are the cons of elephant ear plants?

While elephant ear plants offer striking foliage and tropical vibes, they come with their own set of challenges. Here are some potential cons to consider before incorporating them into your garden:

Size and Spread:

• Large and invasive: Some elephant ear species, especially taro (Colocasia esculenta), grow quite large and can become invasive in warmer climates. They spread via underground corms and can easily take over garden beds if not contained.
• Messy leaves: Large leaves can drop throughout the season, creating a lot of debris to clean up.

Toxicity:

• Poisonous to humans and pets: All parts of the elephant ear plant, including leaves, stems, and corms, contain toxic calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation, swelling, and vomiting if ingested. This makes them a concern for homes with young children or curious pets.

Maintenance:

• Many elephant ear plants require consistent moisture, especially during hot weather, and may wilt dramatically if neglected.
• Most elephant ear plants are not frost-hardy and need to be dug up and stored over winter in colder regions, adding extra work.

Additional Considerations:

• Sun sensitivity: Some species prefer full sun, while others favour partial shade. Choose varieties suited to your light conditions.
• Pests and diseases: Elephant ear plants can be susceptible to aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases, requiring monitoring and potential pest control measures.

9. How toxic is the elephant ear plant?

The toxicity of elephant ear plants (Colocasia esculenta and related species) varies based on the plant part and amount consumed:

Plant part:

• Leaves contain the highest concentration of calcium oxalate crystals, the main toxic component.
• Stems and stalks are less toxic than leaves but still contain enough to cause irritation.
• Corms (bulbs) are considered the least toxic part but can still cause digestive upset if ingested.

Amount ingested:

• Even small amounts of leaves or stems can cause irritation in the mouth and throat.
• Larger amounts can lead to more severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and difficulty swallowing.