Royal Hawaiian® Hawaiian Punch Elephant's Ear Shrub

Eye-catching foliage that brings warmth and vibrancy

The Royal Hawaiian® Hawaiian Punch Elephant's Ear Shrub is a stunning addition to any garden, boasting large, striking leaves that are sure to turn heads. With its vibrant colors and unique tropical appeal, this plant effortlessly transforms your outdoor space into a paradise. Ideal for containers, it makes a fabulous thriller plant, adding height and drama to your mix. While it thrives in southern climates as a perennial, those in northern regions can enjoy it as an annual, making it a versatile choice for gardeners everywhere.

Adding this shrub to your landscape not only enhances visual interest but also introduces a touch of the tropics. The expansive foliage provides an exotic atmosphere, perfect for creating a serene outdoor retreat. Whether it’s framing a patio or creating a lush backdrop in a garden bed, this plant delivers a lush, tropical feel that's hard to resist.

Planting & Care

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a well-aerated potting mix or amend garden beds to ensure good drainage. Select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, and consider using a container that provides enough space for roots to spread.

2. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, especially during the growing season. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. 

3. Pruning: Prune away any dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to promote healthy growth. Wear gloves when pruning, as plants can release a compound that may cause skin irritation.

4. Fertilizing: Colocasia's are heavy feeders. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer like a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. A higher nitrogen fertilizer like a 20-10-10 or an organic fertilizer can also be used. every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to encourage lush foliage development. In fall, cut back on fertilization as the plant prepares for dormancy.

5. Winterizing: In zone 8, cut foliage to the ground and place a wire cage over the plant. Fill the cage with well shredded leaves, which will insulate the corms but not hold too much water against the plant, which can cause rot. In zones 2-7, dig the plant up before the first frost, removing the top two leaves, and replant into a container. Keep the plant in a bright window at about 45-60 F indoor temperatures. Alternately, corms can be dug up, removing all foliage, and placed in peat moss to be kept in a cool, dry place that stays above freezing.