Elephant ear care guide
Colocasia esculenta
Quick answer
Water your elephant ear when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer that’s typically every 3 to 5 days.
- WateringEvery 3 to 5 days · summer
Every 8 to 12 days · winter - LightBright light, some sun
- Climate18–29 °C (64–84 °F)
- Pet safetyToxic to cats and dogs
Not sure it’s this plant?Get the free Botanicaly app and find out with a photoWhen and how to water
3 cm (1.2 in)
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 3 to 5 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 8 to 12 days
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Work out your own rhythm with the watering calculator.
Light and placement
Bright light, some sun
Elephant ear needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Feed your elephant ear every 30 days while it’s actively growing. Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half the strength on the label, and only on soil that’s already damp. Feeding dry roots can scorch them.
When growth pauses, skip the fertilizer and let it rest.
Temperature & humidity
Climate18–29 °C (64–84 °F)
Humidity60–80%
During leafy growth, aim for 18–29 °C (64–84 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 10 °C (50 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 60–80% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full elephant ear toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water an elephant ear?
Water your elephant ear (Colocasia esculenta) when the top 3 cm (1.2 in) of soil feel dry to the touch. In summer, that’s typically every 3 to 5 days. In winter, slow down to every 8 to 12 days.
How much light does an elephant ear need?
Elephant ear needs bright light and a little gentle direct sun, such as morning sun. Strong midday sun can scorch the leaves. Place it close to an east- or west-facing window.
Is elephant ear safe for cats and dogs?
Toxic to cats and dogs if chewed. Keep elephant ear out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like bloodleaf, pygmy date palm, windmill palm, or Norfolk Island pine.
Sources
- This guide follows established plant-care guidance and official ASPCA pet-safety references. How we verify our plant data →
- How we check our plant advice
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