About
Steudnera colocasiifolia is a robust, clump-forming tropical perennial producing large, taro-like, heart-shaped, dark green leaves on long petioles and arum-like spathes. An ornamental foliage plant for a warm, humid, sheltered position in a glasshouse or frost-free garden.
About the genus
Steudnera is a small genus of tropical perennials in the arum family, native to Southeast Asia. Plants produce large, heart-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves on long petioles and arum-like spathes, and are grown ornamentally for their bold, tropical foliage in warm, humid conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Herbaceous Perennial, Houseplants
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Houseplants, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toS Africa
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based compost, in a large container, in full light with shade from hot sun. During growth, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Top dress annually and repot every second year. Water sparingly in winter and ventilate when temperatures exceed 20°C. Plants may take a few years to bloom and will only do so if given adequate levels of light and feed. They will generally flower better if slightly pot-bound. See Strelitzia cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division of rooted suckers in spring. Although you can sow from seed in March to April, they have a very thick coating and will need to prepared by soaking prior to sowing
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, glasshouse red spider mite and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free