Colocasia esculenta 'Mojito'

Colocasia esculenta 'Mojito' – Variegated Elephant Ear with Black Mottling

Colocasia esculenta 'Mojito' delivers lime-green leaves spattered with irregular black to deep purple markings, each blade uniquely patterned. Originating as a colourful tissue-culture mutation discovered by Ty Strode in Florida, this ornamental taro brings instant tropical drama to borders, patio containers, and shallow water features. Petioles range from pale white to blush pink with dark streaks, amplifying contrast and collector appeal.

Foliage and Petiole Features of ‘Mojito’

• Leaf colour: Bright lime base with black flecks, splashes, and marbling; no two leaves alike.
• Petioles: White to soft pink, often streaked with black.
• Leaf size: Commonly 35 – 45 cm; larger under optimal heat, light, and nutrition.
• Habit: Upright, clumping growth from a central corm with seasonal speed in warm weather.
• Mature size: Typically 1.0 – 1.2 m tall, 60 – 90 cm spread in a single season outdoors.

Botanical Background and Natural Range (Parent Species)

Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott is native to tropical Asia (Indo-Malayan region) and has been cultivated for millennia as taro. It is now grown and naturalised across humid tropics worldwide. ‘Mojito’ is an ornamental cultivar of this species and is not intended for food use.

Positioning ‘Mojito’ for Maximum Colour and Growth

• Light: Bright light to partial sun encourages bold contrast and larger leaves. In hot climates, provide light afternoon shade to prevent scorch on variegated tissue.
• Placement: Works as a focal point in mixed tropical borders, a statement container on terraces, or in pond margins with shallow standing water during warm months.

Moisture, Humidity, and Environmental Cues

• Water: Keep substrate consistently moist in active growth; do not allow to dry out fully. In heat, wind, or porous pots, water more frequently; in cooler, low-light conditions, slow the schedule to avoid saturation.
• Humidity: Thrives in naturally humid summer air; steady humidity supports larger, cleaner foliage.
• Temperature: Optimal 20 – 30 °C. Growth slows below ~18 °C; protect from cold snaps and drying winds.

Soil Mixes and Aquatic Planting Tips

• Garden soil/containers: Rich, moisture-retentive mix with high organic matter. For pots, use a blend of quality compost, fine bark or coir, and a small proportion of mineral aggregate (pumice/perlite) to prevent stagnation.
• Water features: Plant into heavy loam or an aquatic basket; submerge so the crown is just above water and the pot rim sits slightly below the surface once established.
• Container size: Use a large, stable pot to support leaf mass and frequent watering.

Nutrients and Seasonal Growth Strategy

• Fertiliser: At planting, incorporate slow-release granules. During peak growth, supplement every 2 – 3 weeks with a liquid feed. Higher nitrogen early in season builds leaf mass; a balanced feed maintains colour and momentum mid-season.
• Pace: Expect rapid foliage turnover in warm months with adequate water and nutrition.

Temperature Management and Overwintering

• Frost sensitivity: Not frost hardy. Before first frost, either move containers indoors to bright, warm conditions or lift and store corms.
• Storing corms: Trim foliage, dry the corms for several days, then store in a cool, dry, frost-free place (about 10 – 15 °C). Replant in spring after danger of frost.

Troubleshooting and Quick Fixes for Healthy Growth

• Yellowing leaves: Commonly excess moisture in cool weather or nutrient shortfall. Improve drainage and feed regularly.
• Leaf scorch or bleaching: Too much direct midday sun or insufficient water; provide afternoon shade and increase irrigation.
• Slow growth: Often low temperature or depleted nutrients; raise warmth and feed.
• Pests: Monitor for aphids and spider mites; rinse foliage and treat with insecticidal soap if needed.

Styling and Landscape Use

• Pair with solid green or purple elephant ears, cannas, and papyrus for layered tropical contrast.
• Use dark or minimalist planters to emphasise lime leaves and black mottling.
• Group with bold annuals for colour echo and season-long impact.

Etymology

Colocasia derives from Greek kolokasion, historically used for edible aroid roots; esculenta means “edible.” ‘Mojito’ refers to the cocktail’s lime-green colour palette, reflecting leaf tone rather than flavour.

Safety Note

Contains insoluble calcium oxalates; irritating if ingested. Keep away from pets and children.

Add Colocasia esculenta ‘Mojito’ to Cart

Make a bold statement with lime-green foliage and inky black marbling. Colocasia esculenta ‘Mojito’ brings reliable tropical impact with straightforward care. Add to Cart and transform summer plantings with a collector-grade elephant ear.