The Colocasia esculenta ‘Mojito’ is a highly sought-after tropical plant, prized primarily for its dramatic and unique foliage. This cultivar of the common Elephant Ear features large, heart-shaped leaves that showcase a stunning marbled effect. The dark green or near-black base is irregularly splashed with striking lime green, creamy white, and chartreuse variegation, making each leaf a distinct work of art. This spectacular patterning ensures the ‘Mojito’ serves as an unforgettable focal point, instantly bringing an exotic, bold texture to any garden or container display.
Setting Up the Ideal Environment
The ‘Mojito’ Elephant Ear requires careful placement to ensure its vibrant variegation is maintained. It thrives best in bright, indirect light or morning sun, which mimics its tropical understory origins. Positioning it in harsh, midday direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorch, resulting in faded or burnt patches on the delicate foliage. Conversely, planting the ‘Mojito’ in too much shade will cause the leaves to lose some of their signature contrasting variegation, appearing darker and less striking.
As a tropical perennial, the ‘Mojito’ demands consistently warm temperatures to flourish during its active growing season. The ideal temperature range generally falls between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21–29°C) for vigorous growth. High humidity is equally important, as this plant originates from naturally moist, warm environments. If grown in dry climates or indoors, methods such as placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water or regularly misting the leaves can help elevate localized humidity levels.
The soil composition must be rich in organic matter and highly moisture-retentive, yet still offer adequate drainage to prevent stagnation. A mixture incorporating topsoil, peat moss, and compost or dehydrated manure provides the necessary loamy, fertile base. While these plants tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, they prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Choosing a deep, appropriately sized container is also significant, as the size of the pot directly influences the plant’s ultimate mature size.
Routine Watering, Feeding, and Grooming
Consistent moisture is essential for the ‘Mojito’ Elephant Ear, which requires conditions similar to a bog plant. The soil must be kept consistently moist to wet and should never be allowed to dry out completely during the growing season. For container-grown plants, this often means checking the soil daily and watering thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, especially during periods of high heat.
In a garden bed, ensure the plant receives regular irrigation or is situated near a water feature, as it can tolerate up to six inches of standing water. The constant presence of moisture supports the large, rapidly expanding leaves and stems, preventing the plant from drooping. This heavy water consumption is linked to the plant’s rapid growth rate, which requires high levels of nutrients.
The ‘Mojito’ is a heavy feeder, necessitating a regular fertilization schedule throughout the spring and summer months. Applying a high-nitrogen, balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks supports its enormous foliage production. Alternatively, a slow-release granular fertilizer can be incorporated into the soil at the start of the growing season to provide continuous nutrient delivery. Providing consistent nutrition ensures the plant can sustain its spectacular size and maintain the intensity of its variegation.
Routine grooming involves removing any older, yellowing leaves at the base of the stem. Pruning these fading leaves improves the plant’s appearance and airflow around the crown while redirecting energy toward new growth. Maintain vigilance for common pests like spider mites and aphids, which can thrive in warm, humid conditions. Addressing pest issues promptly minimizes stress and allows the plant to continue its seasonal development.
Winterizing and Propagation
As the growing season concludes and temperatures begin to drop below 50°F (10°C), the ‘Mojito’ will naturally enter a period of dormancy in most climates. For those in colder regions where ground freezing occurs, the tuber must be dug up and stored indoors to survive the winter. First, cut back the foliage, leaving only a few inches of stem attached to the corm.
Carefully lift the tuber from the soil, gently brush away excess dirt, and allow it to dry or “cure” for a few days in a well-ventilated location. The cleaned, cured tubers should then be stored in a cool, dark, dry, and frost-free environment, ideally between 45–50°F (7–10°C). Storing the tubers in dry peat moss or sawdust can help regulate humidity and prevent rot until they are ready to be replanted after the last spring frost.
For gardeners who grow the ‘Mojito’ indoors year-round, winter care involves significantly reducing both watering and fertilization. The plant will slow its growth during the low-light winter months, so keeping the soil drier prevents root rot. Propagation is most effectively performed during this dormant phase or just before replanting in early spring by dividing the tubers.
The main method of multiplying the plant is by separating the smaller offset tubers, or “cormels,” that form around the main corm. Alternatively, the main tuber can be carefully cut into sections, ensuring that each piece possesses at least one visible growth point or “eye.” After cutting, allow the raw surfaces to dry and callous over for a day or two before planting to prevent fungal infections.