Overview
Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' is a clump forming conservatory greenhouse in the genus Colocasia, part of the Araceae family, with evergreen foliage. Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include patio and container plants and architectural.
About
Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' is an evergreen, clump-forming cultivar of the Colocasia genus, known commonly as taro. These tuberous-rooted perennials typically have arrow-shaped or rounded leaves with prominent veining, although their small flowers are rarely seen in cultivation. 'Painted Black Gecko' thrives in partial shade and sheltered positions, preferring moist but well-drained loam soils with an acid to neutral pH. Suitable for conservatories, greenhouses, and as a houseplant, it is ideal for patio and container planting, offering architectural interest in spring. Propagation is achieved through division or stem cuttings.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Colocasia
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Architectural
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko'
- Propagation
- Division, Stem cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, aphids, glasshouse whitefly
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko'?
Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' need?
Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' hardy in the UK?
Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko' has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Colocasia 'Painted Black Gecko'?
Division, Stem cuttings.
