Colocasia RH Aloha - Marginal Pond Plants - EP105

Colocasia 'RH Aloha', commonly known as Aloha Elephant Ear, is a stunning tropical perennial that combines bold, glossy foliage with striking purple-to-black veining, making it a standout choice for water gardens, tropical landscapes, and container displays. This cultivar is highly ornamental and versatile, thriving in wet conditions and adding dramatic visual appeal to any garden setting.

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Description

Colocasia 'RH Aloha' grows to a height of 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet) with a similar spread. The plant features large, heart-shaped leaves with deep green surfaces accented by bold, dark purple or black veins that radiate out from the central midrib. The underside of the leaves often carries a dark purple hue, adding to its dramatic beauty.

The plant produces sturdy stems, often tinged with purple, which hold the striking foliage aloft. Occasionally, it may produce small spadix-like flowers, though the foliage is the primary ornamental feature.

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Growing Conditions

Colocasia 'RH Aloha' thrives in full sun to partial shade, though partial shade is recommended in regions with intense heat to prevent leaf scorch. It prefers consistently moist or waterlogged soil, making it ideal for planting along pond edges, in bog gardens, or in shallow water up to 10 cm (4 inches) deep.

This cultivar performs best in nutrient-rich, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Hardy in tropical and subtropical climates, it is frost-tender and should be treated as a tender perennial in cooler regions. In the UK or other temperate zones, it can be overwintered indoors or grown as an annual.

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Propagation and Care

Colocasia 'RH Aloha' is propagated by division of rhizomes or offsets. Division is best carried out in early spring or late autumn. Separate the rhizomes carefully, ensuring each piece has a healthy growth bud, and replant them in well-prepared, moist soil or containers.

The plant requires regular watering to maintain damp conditions and benefits from consistent feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. In frost-prone regions, lift and store the rhizomes in a cool, dry location over winter or grow the plant in containers that can be moved indoors.

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Uses

Ornamental:

Colocasia 'RH Aloha' is a dramatic addition to tropical-themed gardens, water gardens, and damp borders. Its bold, patterned foliage makes it an excellent focal point in mixed plantings, particularly when paired with contrasting plants like Canna lilies, Alocasia species, or colourful Caladiums.

Water Features:

This cultivar thrives in shallow water, making it a perfect choice for planting near ponds or streams where its striking foliage can create a lush, tropical feel.

Container Planting:

Ideal for patios, decks, or balconies, RH Aloha grows beautifully in large containers, offering a versatile option for gardeners in cooler climates who need to overwinter the plant indoors.

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Ecological Value

Although primarily ornamental, Colocasia 'RH Aloha' provides habitat and shade for small aquatic creatures when planted near water. Its large leaves create a microclimate that supports beneficial insects and amphibians.

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Considerations

• Moisture Needs: This plant requires consistently moist or waterlogged soil to thrive. It is not drought-tolerant and should be watered regularly.
• Frost Sensitivity: RH Aloha is frost-tender and needs winter protection in cooler climates. Overwintering the rhizomes indoors ensures its survival.
• Space Requirements: With its bold foliage and spreading habit, this plant requires adequate space to achieve its full potential.

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Summary

With its bold, patterned foliage and dramatic presence, Colocasia 'RH Aloha' is an exceptional choice for adding tropical flair to water gardens, damp borders, and containers. Its adaptability to wet conditions and stunning aesthetic make it a versatile and valuable plant for gardeners looking to create lush, vibrant displays. Easy to grow and maintain with proper care, RH Aloha is sure to make a striking statement in any garden.

Why Choose Colocasia 'RH Aloha' (Aloha Elephant Ear)?

Colocasia 'RH Aloha', also known as Aloha Elephant Ear, is a captivating and vibrant perennial that thrives in wet and moist environments. Known for its large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that showcase a tropical blend of green, purple, and pink hues, this plant makes a bold statement in any garden. Its ability to thrive in shallow water and its striking, colorful foliage make it an excellent choice for those looking to add a tropical flair to pond edges, water gardens, or tropical landscapes.

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1. Vibrant, Colorful Foliage

• Colocasia 'RH Aloha' features large, heart-shaped leaves with a unique mix of green, purple, and pink tones, making it an eye-catching plant in any garden.
• The foliage has an almost tropical flair, with colorful veins and edges that stand out against the lush green of surrounding plants.
• The plant's dramatic and bold leaves provide a striking contrast to other plants in wetland and water gardens, adding both color and texture.

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2. Bold, Tropical Appearance

• The large, glossy leaves create a lush tropical atmosphere, ideal for water gardens or creating a jungle-inspired landscape.
• With its bold color and size, Aloha Elephant Ear works well as a focal point in your garden, adding a dramatic effect to the overall design.
• The plant's tall stature (up to 1.5 meters / 5 feet) and large foliage create height and structure, making it perfect for pond edges or as part of a tropical-themed space.

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3. Thrives in Wet and Moist Conditions

• Colocasia 'RH Aloha' thrives in moist soils or shallow water (up to 30–45 cm / 12–18 inches deep), making it ideal for pond edges, bog gardens, or wet meadows.
• It performs best in full sun to partial shade, allowing it to thrive in a variety of garden settings while ensuring vibrant foliage and healthy growth.

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4. Hardy and Low Maintenance

• Aloha Elephant Ear is a hardy perennial that tolerates fluctuating water levels and varying moisture conditions, making it well-suited for diverse wetland environments.
• Once established, it is low-maintenance, requiring minimal care while providing consistent growth and bold foliage year after year.

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5. Wildlife-Friendly

• The large, glossy leaves of Colocasia 'RH Aloha' provide shelter for small creatures, such as insects, amphibians, and small birds, creating a welcoming environment for wildlife.
• The plant’s striking foliage and large size also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy garden ecosystem.

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6. Erosion Control and Water Filtration

• The plant’s dense root system helps stabilize soil, making it ideal for erosion control along pond banks, marshes, or wetland areas.
• Colocasia 'RH Aloha' also helps with water filtration, absorbing excess nutrients and contributing to cleaner water in your pond or wetland garden.

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7. Versatile Design Use

• Perfect for water gardens, bog gardens, pond edges, or tropical landscapes, where it can provide height, color, and texture.
• Works well in naturalistic plantings, where it adds a lush, tropical aesthetic, or as a striking accent plant in more formal designs.

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Key Features

• Height: 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet)
• Leaves: Large, glossy heart-shaped foliage with a mix of green, purple, and pink tones
• Soil: Moist to wet soil or shallow water
• Light: Full sun to partial shade

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Colocasia 'RH Aloha' (Aloha Elephant Ear) is a beautiful and bold addition to any wetland or water garden. Its vibrant, colorful foliage, tropical appearance, and ability to thrive in moist conditions make it an excellent choice for adding both visual interest and functionality to your landscape.