About

Colocasia esculenta 'Burgundy-Stemmed' is a frost-sensitive, tuberous perennial that can reach heights of 1.5 meters. It features large, heart-shaped leaves that are deep green, supported by burgundy-red stems. This plant serves well as an indoor specimen or can be cultivated outdoors in containers, provided it is placed in a frost-free and sheltered environment.

About the genus

Colocasia comprises tuberous-rooted perennials that may be deciduous or evergreen. The leaves are typically arrow-shaped or rounded and feature noticeable veining. While the flowers are small and borne on a spadix enclosed by a compact white spathe, they are rarely seen in cultivated settings.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Partial shade

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H1B

Plant details

Plant type

Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

1-1.5 metres

Spread

0.5-1 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Suggested uses

Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Houseplants, Patio and container plants

Toxicity

Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Care notes

Cultivation

Plant tubers in a large pot of humus-rich compost in warm conditions in early spring. In early summer the pot can be positioned in a sunny or lightly shaded spot outdoors, with shelter from strong winds. Water freely when the plant comes into growth and apply a high nitrogen feed weekly. Either move the pot into a greenhouse or conservatory over winter, or lift the tuber and store it dry. See houseplant cultivation for further advice

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by division or by stem cuttings

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, aphids and glasshouse whitefly

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free