About

Colocasia esculenta 'Pink China' is a robust perennial that reaches heights of 1.2 meters, showcasing large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 60 centimeters. The light green foliage is supported by upright stems that exhibit a hint of pink. This variety is one of the more resilient colocasias, thriving as a summer foliage plant. While it will die back after the initial frost, it can endure winter when protected with a deep, dry mulch. In regions with harsh winters, it is advisable to lift the rhizome in the fall and store it indoors until spring.

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

Full sun, 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

H3

Plant details

Plant type

Conservatory Greenhouse, Herbaceous Perennial

Habit

Clump forming, Columnar upright

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

1-1.5 metres

Spread

0.5-1 metres

Time to full height

2-5 years

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical

Toxicity

Humans/Pets: Harmful if eaten, skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants

Care notes

Cultivation

Plant tubers in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil spring, choosing a sunny or lightly shaded spot with shelter from strong winds. Water freely when the plant comes into growth and apply a high nitrogen feed weekly. Once the foliage dies back in autumn, either cover the crown with a deep, dry mulch, or lift the tuber and store it dry over winter

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by division of rhizomes

Pest resistance

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

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free