Elephant Ear | Colocasia rubra Black Magic
Elephant Ear | Colocasia rubra Black Magic
A bold, tropical plant with striking dark purple-black leaves, perfect for modern ponds and water features.
SAVE £10 when you buy 1ltr - Pack of 3
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Elephant Ear 'Black Magic' (Colocasia rubra 'Black Magic') is a dramatic, tropical plant that adds a bold architectural element to ponds, water features, and boggy areas. Its striking, large, heart-shaped leaves are an intense purple-black, creating an eye-catching contrast against other greenery. Thriving in shallow water or moist soils, this rhizomatous perennial is perfect for modern, exotic, or jungle-themed garden designs.
Although not hardy in UK winters, 'Black Magic' can be enjoyed outdoors from late spring through summer, where its lush foliage creates an instant focal point. For overwintering, bring the plant into a frost-free location, such as a greenhouse or conservatory, ensuring the rhizomes remain moist but not waterlogged. Ideal for adding tropical flair to garden ponds or container water features, Elephant Ear 'Black Magic' brings dramatic colour and texture to your outdoor space.
Caution: Harmful if eaten and may cause skin or eye irritation. Wear gloves when handling. For more information on pets, refer to the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants.
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Plant essentials
Key Characteristics:
- Height 80cm to 120cm
- Spread: up to 1.2m (Medium Growth)
- Growth Rate: Medium
- Depth: 0cm to 1cm
- Flower Colour: Rarely flowers; pale yellow-green spathes if produced
- Growth Habit: Rhizomatous, upright perennial
- Foliage: Large, heart-shaped purple-black leaves
Additional Information:
- Common Name: Elephant Ear 'Black Magic'
- Position: Full Sun/Part Shade
- Soil: Moist to wet, suitable for pond margins and boggy soils
- Flowering Period: Late summer (if flowering)
- Hardiness: Outdoors in summer; tolerates 10°C to 15°C (requires winter protection). (H1b)
Dispatch Information:
- Normally Available From: June/July
Your Plant At Arrival
Your marginal plant will arrive in a Finofil Aquatic Basket, pre-planted with aquatic soil and a slow-release fertiliser. Just pop straight into you pond upon arrival!
Aquatic Basket Measurements:
- 1ltr - Square pot (11cm wide by 11cm high)
- 3ltr - Hexagonal pot (18cm wide x 16cm high)
- 5ltr - Square pot (24cm wide x 14cm high)
- 9cm plants arrive in solid pots and will need repotting into aquatic baskets.
How to Grow
Growing Instructions: Place the plant on a marginal shelf at the recommended depth (0cm – 1 cm), ensuring the rhizome is submerged but the crown remains just above water level. Allow 5 x 1ltr plants per linear metre or 3 x 3ltr plants per linear metre. Move to a frost-free location over winter to protect it from cold damage.
Growing Tips: Elephant Ear 'Black Magic' thrives in consistently moist or shallow water and prefers a warm, sunny location to encourage the richest colour. Keep in aquatic baskets for easy management. Regular feeding during the growing season will support vigorous growth and vibrant foliage. In autumn, lift the basket and bring indoors to a frost-free environment, keeping them moist but not soggy.
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Remove any damaged or yellowing leaves throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking its best. Cut back all foliage in autumn when preparing the plant for winter storage.
Pests/Diseases: This plant is generally trouble-free, but slugs and snails may feed on the large leaves, particularly in wet conditions. If overwintered indoors, monitor for aphids or spider mites.
Marginals - Good to Know
How Deep Should I Place My Marginals?
The planting depth depends on the variety. Check the product page or the care label included with your plant for specific guidance.
Depth is measured from the top of the pot to the water’s surface.
Most marginals are fine placed 1cm to 2cm under the waterline, just enough to hide the aquatic basket.
How Many Marginals Do I Need?
Measure the length of your marginal shelves and then allow:
- 1ltr Plants: 5 per linear metre
- 3ltr Plants: 3 per linear metre
Tip: Leave space between plant varieties to prevent dominant species from taking over. For more details, see our Planting Guide.
Do I Need to Line My Basket with Hessian?
No, Finofil aquatic baskets are designed with a fine mesh that prevents soil loss. Adding a liner is optional but not necessary.
What Are Finofil Baskets Made From?
Finofil aquatic baskets are made from 100% recycled plastic and manufactured in the UK. They can be recycled at local recycling centres or through kerbside collections that accept black plastic. Plant labels are also recyclable.
Will Carp or Ducks Eat My Plants?
Carp (inc. Koi): These fish find pond plants irresistible! If you have carp, we recommend protecting your plants with barriers.
Goldfish: Goldfish may nibble on oxygenators and softer plants but generally cause less damage. They also eat insects, larvae, and tadpoles.
Wildfowl: Ducks and other birds may eat plants or damage roots while nesting. Mature plants with strong root systems are more resilient, but consider protecting roots/rhizomes for added security.
Ordering, Shipping & Returns
What is a Pre-Order?
Pre-ordering reserves a plant that is still growing and not yet ready to ship. Payment is taken at checkout to secure your plant, and shipping happens once the plant is well-rooted and ready.
Ordering Tip!
Many customers prefer to place two separate orders when ordering early in the season.
- One for plants available now.
- One for pre-order plants.
This ensures there are no delays, and you can enjoy your ready now plants sooner.
Shipping Prices
Plant Orders:
- Standard Delivery: £6.00.
- Large Orders (e.g., 30L Waterlilies): Pallet delivery, cost based on weight and postcode (email for a quote).
Highlands & Islands:
- Small Orders (<1.8kg): £6.00.
- Standard Orders (>1.8kg): £25.00.
Soil & Gravel:
Additional charges for multiple bags may apply. Email for a quote if not calculated at checkout.
Container Ponds:
Shipping starts at £30. Prices are calculated at checkout.
Note: We cannot currently ship to Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland or Europe.
Read More about delivery prices
Couriers & Delivery Schedule
Couriers Used:
Royal Mail, APC, DX and Parcel Force, and Pallet Delivery services (for large orders and 30L plants).
Shipping Schedule
- Aquatic Plants: Dispatch Schedule varies dependant on season.
- Garden Plants: Dispatched twice weekly on Mondays and Wednesdays.
If you need any help, please email us - info@plantsforponds.co.uk
Returns
Unpacking Your Plants
When your plants arrive, please unpack them carefully:
- Plants are packed in protective plastic bags. Check if any stems, leaves, or flowers are stuck to the inside of the bag before removing it.
- Gently peel off any stuck parts before removing the plant to prevent damage.
- Minor soil displacement or damage to leaves/stems during transit is normal and won’t affect the plant’s recovery.
If you’re concerned about your plants, take photos and email us, and we’ll assist you.
Damaged or Incorrect Items
If your plants or items arrive damaged, or you’ve received an incorrect item:
- Take clear photos of the packaging and damaged items.
- Email us with your order number (starting PFP) and the photos.
We’ll resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Returns of Plants/Molluscs (Non-Faulty)
Due to the perishable nature of plants and molluscs, we are unable to accept cancellations or returns for these items. If you are unhappy with your plant or mollusc, please take photos and email us with your order number (starting PFP).
For more details about returns and our full policy, please visit our Returns Policy
Grown in the UK
Aquatic Plants
All our plants come from a UK family run aquatic nursery, established over 50 years ago.