Contents
Description
Colocasia Esculenta White Lava, also known as elephant’s ear or taro, is a tropical plant that is native to Southeast Asia and Southern India. It is a member of the Araceae family and is cultivated for its edible corms and leaves. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has large, heart-shaped leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in length. The leaves are glossy and dark green with a waxy texture. The corms are round and can vary in size from a golf ball to a grapefruit. The White Lava variety has striking white veins that contrast with the dark green leaves, making it a popular ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Colocasia |
Appearance
Colocasia Esculenta White Lava has large, heart-shaped leaves that are glossy and dark green with white veins. The leaves can reach up to 2 feet in length and 1.5 feet in width. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and the corms are round and can vary in size from a golf ball to a grapefruit. The White Lava variety is a popular ornamental plant due to its striking white veins that contrast with the dark green leaves.
Care Guide
Colocasia Esculenta White Lava requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It should be planted in well-draining soil and fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder climates, the corms should be dug up and stored indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Colocasia Esculenta White Lava can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and proper cultural practices such as good soil drainage, adequate spacing, and proper watering can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Colocasia Esculenta White Lava is native to Southeast Asia and Southern India and grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It is commonly cultivated for its edible corms and leaves and is also grown as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Colocasia Esculenta White Lava be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Colocasia Esculenta White Lava can be propagated from leaf cuttings or by dividing the corms.
Q: What is the best soil for Colocasia Esculenta White Lava?
A: Colocasia Esculenta White Lava prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Can Colocasia Esculenta White Lava be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Colocasia Esculenta White Lava can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Q: How often should Colocasia Esculenta White Lava be fertilized?
A: Colocasia Esculenta White Lava should be fertilized every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Colocasia Esculenta
- Colocasia Esculenta Black Coral
- Colocasia Esculenta Mojito
- Colocasia Gigantea
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/elephant-ear/white-lava-elephant-ears.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/elephant-ear/growing-elephant-ear-plants.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18912/Colocasia-esculenta-White-Lava/Details
