Overview

Mojito Elephant Ear is a tropical foliage perennial known for chartreuse-green leaves splashed and flecked with deep purple.

Mature Size and Habit

Plants usually grow 3 to 5 feet tall and about 3 to 5 feet wide in moist, warm conditions.

Best Landscape Uses

Use it as a foliage accent, in a tropical border, large container, rain-garden edge, or a protected poolside bed.

Sunlight

Bright partial sun or high shade is ideal. Gentle morning sun supports color, while harsh afternoon sun can scorch leaves if moisture is inconsistent.

Soil, Drainage, and Irrigation

Provide fertile, organic soil that remains evenly moist and drains after storms. Water consistently during active growth.

Best Planting Season for Tampa and Central Florida

Spring planting gives the corm a full warm season to root and produce foliage.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove yellow, torn, or cold-injured leaves at the base. Thin wandering shoots before they root beyond the intended area.

Wildlife Value

The inconspicuous flowers provide little consistent wildlife value. Dense foliage can offer temporary shelter, but combine this plant with native flowering and fruiting species to support pollinators and birds.

Cold and Heat Sensitivity

Heat and humidity encourage rapid growth. Frost burns the foliage, and the plant may become dormant after a cold event before returning from protected corms.

Safety, Roots, and Placement Warnings

Plant tissues contain calcium oxalate crystals and are toxic if chewed. Sap may irritate skin and eyes.

Invasive Concerns

The parent species has naturalized in parts of Florida. Grow this cultivar only in managed beds or containers, remove runners and extra corms, and keep all live material away from waterways and natural areas.

Helpful Resources

Review current Florida guidance through UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions. Confirm site-specific irrigation, cold protection, and placement needs before installation.