by KYW's Fran Sorin

If you want your garden to be an exuberant standout this spring, you should plan on buying several colocasias.

Colocasia, commonly known as elephant ears, is one of those plants that no matter how many times you’ve seen it, you think to yourself: “What a terrific, exciting plant it is!”

The plants’ leaves are very large, similar to the size and shape of real elephant’s ears. Colocasias work well as screens, corner plantings and in containers.  Most of them tend to thrive in moist, partial shade to shady locations. They come in a variety of colors and textures. My favorite one, Colocasia esculanta ‘black magic’ has rich deep purple, almost black leaves that are supported on strong purple stems. Black magic, like other specimens can grow easily to 5 feet tall and is hardy in Zones 8-10.

Contact Fran Sorin at fransorin.com.